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Zuma backs Gordhan

South Africa

South African President Jacob Zuma has expressed support for finance minister Pravin Gordhan who has been charged with fraud.

His statement comes days after Vice President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed support for the minister.

Zuma told the country’s upper house of parliament the charges are a concern for everyone, denying that he discussed the case at the headquarters of the ANC the day before Gordhan was charged.

Jacob Zuma said he will not intervene in the criminal prosecution the minister faces, saying he does not have the power or right to interfere.

Gordhan is expected to appear in court on November 2 on charges dating back to 2010 over a colleague’s retirement package.

Business leaders have expressed support for Pravin Gordhan in what many see as a politically motivated witch hunt.

Gordhan is expected to deliver the medium term budget statement on Wednesday.

AFP

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