Gordhan charges 'contaminated by abuse for political ends'

Its comments come after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) on Tuesday issued Gordhan with a summons to appear in court in November.

The charges relate to the early retirement of former Sars official Ivan Pillay which the NPA says cost Sars R1.1 million. 

Treasury spokesperson Yolisa Tyantsi says Gordhan's office received and signed for the summons on Tuesday morning.

"It is most unfortunate that the Hawks have, once again, chosen to initiate legal proceedings at a moment that appears calculated to maximise the damage inflicted on the economic well- being of South Africans and essential processes of government."

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She says the minister's legal team have had extensive interactions with the Hawks over the last six months, including providing for clear communication channels in the event that any further legal proceedings are initiated.

"Despite this, the Hawks chose to arrive unannounced at the Minister's private residence this morning. On being told that the Minister has left for another engagement they preceded to the National Treasury offices and served the summons. 

"Shortly thereafter, and again without the courtesy of a prior indication, the National Director of Public Prosecutions convened a press conference to unveil a set of charges that are patently without merit."

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Tyantsi says the minister is ready to subject himself to a legitimate process of the law to bring this matter to rest in the interest of the country as soon as possible.

At an Open Tender Seminar on Tuesday, Gordhan responded to the charges and said: "I intend to continue doing my job. The cause of defending ethical leadership in government and throughout society is too important to allow ourselves to be deterred by this kind of harassment. The fight against corruption, maladministration, and waste of public resources will continue."