Godsell gone for good

Johannesburg - Former Eskom chairperson Bobby Godsell confirmed his resignation on Monday from the parastatal's board saying new leadership must write the organisation's next chapter.

"I have therefore reconfirmed my resignation to (public enterprises) minister Barbara Hogan," Godsell said in a statement. "Eskom is ready to move forward under new leadership."

Godsell said the Eskom board has been able to act decisively during last week, referring to official confirmation of former CEO Jacob Maroga's resignation.

Citing a parliamentary speech by Hogan, Godsell said the government had now "given the board the backing it needed".

Godsell resigned last week in protest at the government's lack of support for the board in its tussle with Maroga.

Hogan also issued a separate statement wishing Godsell well "as he takes leave of Eskom".

Said the public enterprises ministry (DPE): "The DPE has always welcomed Mr Godsell's contribution to advancing the state's strategic intent for Eskom.

"While Mr Godsell's departure is a loss for Eskom, we share his confidence in, and support of the board under its current leadership," it said.

Mpho Makwana, Godsell's temporary replacement as chair of Eskom, vowed to identify a CEO within 90 days and that a new chairpersonwould be found in six months.

With government already expressing its displeasure with a proposed 45% tariff hike on power, the question of finding the right leader familiar with capital markets is more pressing.

Godsell said the strong management team at Eskom would soon be strengthened by new appointments in both finance and human resources.

"Eskom is ready to move forward under new leadership. It is this new leadership that must write the new chapter. I have therefore reconfirmed my resignation to Minister Hogan," he said.

- Fin24.com