Share

12 ways Gordhan reacted to the relentless Hawks onslaught

Cape Town – The likelihood that the Hawks might officially charge Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has once again plunged the country into a state of anxiety, but the minister has yet to officially respond to the latest move.

This comes as Treasury confirmed that Gordhan – as well as other former officials of the SA Revenue Service (Sars) – must meet the Hawks on Thursday to receive a letter of warning (which precedes an official charge) regarding an investigation unit started when Gordhan was commissioner from 1999 to 2009.

FULL STORY: Gordhan blow hits rand as junk status fears return

The below 12 quotes made in statements in 2016 by Gordhan post his re-appointment as finance minister following the Nhlanhla Nene axing fiasco in December last year relate to the matter:

“I was appointed as Minister by President Jacob Zuma and I serve at his pleasure.” - 26 February.

“There is a group of people that are not interested in the economic stability of this country and the welfare of its people. It seems they are interested in disrupting institutions and destroying reputations.” - 26 February.

“The letter from the Hawks is an attempt by some individuals who have no interest in South Africa, its future, its economic prospects and the welfare of its people. If necessary, I will take appropriate legal action to protect myself and the National Treasury from whatever elements seeking to discredit me, the institution and its integrity.” - 26 February.

FULL STORY: Gloves off between Gordhan and 'disruptors'

“Once again the Hawks, and those who instruct them, have no regard for the economic and social welfare of millions. … So where is this mysterious letter? Why does one journalist among the press seem to have something at hand but the people to whom it is directed don't? Also, why "leak" a letter that has to be still studied and responded to - to further use harassment and intimidatory tactics like the old Security Police did?” – 13 March.

“I will continue to serve South Africa as best I can, in the interests of all our people. Our immediate task - all of us - is to avoid a downgrade and find urgent ways of growing our economy and creating jobs, in particular for our youth.” – 13 March.

FULL STORY: Gordhan condemns 'harassment' by Hawks

“I am advised that the Sikhakhane Panel finding that the establishment of the Unit contravened the National Strategic Intelligence Act was wrong and based on a superficial and clearly mistaken reading of the aforementioned Act.” – 30 March.

“During my time as commissioner, … the unit employed 26 odd people, a miniscule part of the 15 000 staff compliment of Sars. My knowledge of the unit’s day-to-day operations was consequently very limited. As far as I was aware, the unit lawfully performed its functions. I was not personally involved in the recruitment of its members but I am told that the process was in accordance with Sars policy. If it or any of its members engaged in unlawful activities then they did so without my knowledge or consent. I have no knowledge of the operation code-named ‘Sunday Evenings’.” – 30 March.

“The Hawks declined to answer my questions seeking clarity on what offence they were investigating and by what authority they were acting. …  The deadlines and threats of retaliation were accordingly unlawful. … The Hawks have no reason to investigate me.”  – 30 March.

FULL STORY: Gordhan answers Hawks over Sars 'rogue' unit

“The recent media reports about my arrest - imminent or not - have been extremely distressing for my family and me.” - 17 May.

“I cannot believe that I am being investigated and could possibly be charged for something I am completely innocent of. I have answered the questions submitted by the Hawks, and have not heard from them. I was not aware of any impending charges or further investigations until the reports in the past weekend.” - 17 May.

“No one should be subjected to the manipulation of the law and agencies for ulterior motives.” - 17 May.

“The malicious rumours and accusations about ‘espionage’ activities are false and manufactured for other motives.”  - 17 May.

FULL STORY: Gordhan speaks out on arrest reports

WATCH: Gordhan says he has the confidence of cabinet - 1 July


Read Fin24's top stories trending on Twitter:

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Rand - Dollar
18.98
-0.2%
Rand - Pound
24.06
+0.2%
Rand - Euro
20.58
+0.1%
Rand - Aus dollar
12.35
+0.6%
Rand - Yen
0.13
+0.7%
Platinum
902.95
+0.1%
Palladium
998.75
-0.7%
Gold
2,153.35
-0.3%
Silver
24.91
-0.6%
Brent Crude
86.89
+1.8%
Top 40
65,825
-0.6%
All Share
72,043
-0.5%
Resource 10
53,031
-0.5%
Industrial 25
99,434
-1.0%
Financial 15
16,625
+0.0%
All JSE data delayed by at least 15 minutes Iress logo
Company Snapshot
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE
Government tenders

Find public sector tender opportunities in South Africa here.

Government tenders
This portal provides access to information on all tenders made by all public sector organisations in all spheres of government.
Browse tenders