Cosatu calls on Zuma to discipline Zwane
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) says it is calling on President Jacob Zuma to discipline the Minister of Mineral Resources, Mosebenzi Zwane, following his decision to publicly present his personal views on the Oakbay Investment vs Banks matter as a Cabinet decision.
The Presidency on Friday distanced itself and Cabinet from Zwane's statement, which called for a judicial investigation into banks in response to their refusal to continue doing business with the Gupta family.
"This supreme political arrogance and self-exaltation by the minister has not only undermined the cabinet, but raises questions on who calls the shots and whether the centre is still holding in government. The president needs to act swiftly against the minister and send a clear message that our government is not in disarray, but is still intact," Cosatu said in a statement.
Cosatu said Zwane's statement drove investors away.
"This also plays into the hands of those companies, who have been on an investment strike because it gives them reasons to justify their unwillingness to invest in our economy. This reckless decision by the minister also gives these companies the social licence to openly interfere in political affairs with impunity. The president needs to act and act fast, because nature does not allow a vacuum," it said.