I have not stolen a cent of public money: Gordhan

Answering a question about recent reports of his possible arrest at the Daily Maverick's The Gathering in Midrand yesterday, the Finance Minister teared up and received support in the form of applause from the crowd as he tried to compose himself.

"Neither myself or many of the people who are accused of all sorts of things have ever stolen 1 cent of public money. Sorry, I am a bit emotional," he said. 

"I have nothing to hide and there is nothing to worry about and if they want to do anything then I suppose we have good courts in the country," Gordhan said.

Last month, the Hawks had handed over a docket to the Naional Prosecuting Authority relating to the investigation into Gordhan's alleged role in the so-called SARS Rogue Unit when he was commissioner at the revenue service.

At the time, newspaper reports quoted sources as saying officials at the NPA were preparing for the arrest and prosecution of Gordhan. 

But while confirming it had been given the docket, the NPA denied anyone was going to be arrested.

In a statement issued a few days later, Gordhan denied any wrong-doing adding that the reports of his arrest had been very distressing for him and his family.

(Photo: Gallo Images)