Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan. Picture: Thobile Mathonsi/ African News Agency/ ANA
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has condemned in the strongest terms what he says is “reckless and insensitive” tweets and reports that surfaced on Sunday questioning his health.
This followed speculation among some Twitter users who raised questions about the minister’s whereabouts and alleged he was suffering from an unknown illness.
ALSO READ: Gordhan clarifies meeting request with Mogoeng
In a statement, the Department of Public Enterprises said the fake news were meant to distract and cause unnecessary confusion in the market about the minister’s health.
Gordhan’s spokesperson, Richard Mantu, warned the public to ignore the reports, which are “meant to cause mistrust and confusion in the media environment.”
Mantu said the minister continues to be engaged in matters of government to ensure that state-owned entities are stabilised and play a critical role in the economic recovery of the country.
Gordhan said: “I’m well and working hard for the country. This is clearly created by the corrupt and desperate elements in South Africa who wish to go on stealing, neglect the poor and abuse public resources.”
READ NEXT: EFF still baying for Gordhan’s blood
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.