Ajay Gupta's permanent residency in the spotlight
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that Ajay Gupta's permanent residency could be revoked.
The Sunday Times is reporting that Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba has instructed his director-general Mkuseli Apleni to investigate how Ajay obtained the residency permit and to seek legal advice about how to withdraw it.
The newspaper says Gigaba also met with President Cyril Ramaphosa to discuss his contradictory statements on the citizenship of Atul Gupta and inform him of his intention to act against Ajay.
Gigaba's spokesperson Mayihlome Tshwete says Ajay's permanent residency is under discussion.
"There is a possibility of revoking his permanent residency on the grounds of him allegedly evading justice. The law is quite clear on the grounds as to why you can revoke citizenship or permanent residency or any type of permit. It's usually around a conviction of criminality."
Ajay Gupta is being sought by the Hawks in connection with an allegation that he offered former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas a bribe to become finance minister in 2015.
He has denied the claims, saying in court papers filed in the North Gauteng High Court that he "never met" Jonas.
"The minister has instructed the director-general Mr Apleni to look into the possibility of undertaking such an action given the pending case that is facing challenges due to the whereabouts of Mr Gupta," says Tshwete. "The DG is currently looking at the legal possibilities of that and once it has been finalised we will inform the president. He will probably inform the public afterwards."