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‘We believe in your ethical leadership‚’ Gauteng premier tells Gordhan

A standing ovation and a show of solidarity — that is what Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan got from participants at an open tender seminar on Tuesday following news of his summons.

“I would like to take this opportunity to say something to you‚ minister Gordhan. I‚ as the Premier of Gauteng province‚ on behalf of the government that I lead without of fear of contradiction‚ we believe in your leadership‚ we believe in your ethical leadership‚” said Gauteng Premier David Makhura speaking at the seminar in Midrand.

The premier was speaking after Gordhan told seminar participants that the Hawks had been looking for him that morning‚ at his house and office‚ to serve him a summons to appear in court on charges of alleged fraud.

The charges come after the Hawks said it was investigating Gordhan’s role in the establishment of a rogue unit‚ while he was commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (Sars).

Gordhan received a standing ovation from the participants after he delivered his speech in which he applauded the Gauteng government for opening up its tender processes.

Makhura told Gordhan not to lose strength as he dealt with the legal matter and to use is energy to continue to help SA’s economy recover.

“We trust as you go through this you will feel our weight as well‚ you won’t just feel the burden of the responsibilities you were given as the minister of finance.

“The truth will come out‚ the truth is too strong to be kept secret … the truth will be transparent and soon. Thank you very much for blessing us with your presence‚” said Makhura.

His statement prompted more applause and cheers from the crowd. – TMG Digital

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