Pravin Gordhan breaks silence over arrest claims
Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has responded to reports of his imminent arrest and prosecution for his alleged role in the so-called rogue unit while he was commissioner at the the South African Revenue Service.
The Sunday Times reported that the Hawks had handed the case docket to the National Prosecuting Authority, quoting sources as saying NDPP, Shaun Abrahams was ready to take Gordhan to court.
In a statement this evening, Gordhan has pleaded his innocence - saying he cannot believe that he am being investigated and could possibly be charged.
He says the reports about his arrest - imminent or not - have been extremely distressing for his family and himself.
Gordhan believes there is a conspiracy by individuals within agencies of the government to intimidate and harass him and his family.
Below, are tweets from City Press Editor, Ferial Haffajee sharing excerpts from the statement.
Gordhan: It is painful to me, and I’m sure to many earnest democrats, to witness this unrestrained attack on honest and hardworking people
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) May 17, 2016
Gordhan: It is indeed true: no one is above the law. no one should be subjected to manipulation of the law, agencies for ulterior motives.
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) May 17, 2016
Gordhan: Throughout my 45 years of activism, I have worked for the advancement of the ANC, our Constitution and our democratic government.
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) May 17, 2016
Gordhan appeals to South Africans to protect the National Treasury staff, who have diligently, honestly and skilfully served SA.
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) May 17, 2016