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Cape Town - President Jacob Zuma has distanced himself from the ANC's show of support for suspended Transnet executive Siyabonga Gama's bid to get the top job at the parastatal.
"Whoever has made a statement in public, it is unfortunate," Zuma told reporters at Tuynhuys on Thursday.
He said appointing a successor to former Transnet CEO Maria Ramos was the responsibility of Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan.
Neither the president nor others should be seen to intervene.
"I don't think I need to comment. There is a minister dealing with the matter. I don't think it helps to have a debate on this matter in public," Zuma said.
Gama, who headed Transnet Freight Rail, is fighting his suspension for alleged irregularities in two procurement contracts worth more than R800 million in court.
He claims it was a conspiracy to block his promotion to CEO.
Those who have come out in support of Gama include Justice Minister Jeff Radebe and Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda.
The African National Congress has stated that Gama remains the party's preferred candidate for the job.
Hogan said this week he had never been the first choice of the Transnet board.
She said she hoped his dispute with the company would be resolved soon, and that it would appoint a suitable person for the post in consultation with cabinet.
The High Court in Johannesburg on Thursday postponed the Gama case until Tuesday to allow Transnet time to file affidavits.
- Sapa
