Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
25 February 2023 | 18:11 CAT

Image: African Insider

After giving a wide-ranging interview on TV, Eskom CEO Andre du Ruyter and its board have decided to part ways with immediate effect. He said in an interview that “evidence shows” Eskom has become a feeding trough for the ANC. De Ruyter accused a senior politician of involvement in corruption in Eskom and that a government minister was aware of this.

De Ruyter, Eskom’s 11th CEO in over a decade, was expected to serve notice until the end of March after announcing his resignation at the end of last year.

“The board further resolved that Mr de Ruyter will not be required to serve the balance of his notice period but that he will be released from his position with immediate effect,” the company said in a statement.

Energy analyst Ted Blom told Radio Islam International the legacy of Andre du Ruyter at the helm of Eskom would be seen as ‘too late and too little’.

“He was aware of the corruption and misdemeanours within Eskom and the massive problems on the coal side. He however suggested that no help was needed,” says Blom.

Meanwhile, many argue that De Ruyter never did seem to have the support of ministers like Gwede Mantashe or Pravin Gordhan, with no chance to turn Eskom around.

According to Blom, De Ruyter was questioned in a TV interview regarding political interference closer to the beginning of his tenure. He boldly stated that he was unaware of any political interference by the cabinet’s shareholders, ministers or other persons.

“If he was not been honest with the public and himself when he made that statement than he must live with the consequences,” Blom said.

Listen to the interview with Presenter Annisah Essack and Energy Analyst Ted Blom on Radio Islam’s podcast.