Remember, a deputy cabinet minister has said he has been offered a cabinet post by the Guptas. This has been confirmed by independent sources as well as other allegations. The ANC big brass does not see it this way continues to support Zuma, no matter what.
We publish the ANC NEC’s statement without edits. Judge for yourself:
“The ANC NEC had frank and robust discussions on the serious allegations surrounding the Gupta family and its purported influence in the appointment of ministers, their deputies and other positions in key state owned entities in their interests. Such actions can have no place in the ANC or its government as they have the potential to undermine and erode the credibility and confidence of our people in the leadership of their organization, the ANC and its government. We reject the notion of any business or family group seeking such influence over the ANC with the contempt it deserves while also recognizing the need to act to protect the integrity of our government and our organization.
“The appointment of ministers and deputy ministers is the sole prerogative of the President of the Republic, in line with the Constitution. To this end, the ANC continues to confirm its full confidence in our President. The ANC NEC mandated the Officials and the NWC to gather all pertinent information about the allegations to enable the ANC to take appropriate action on this matter. The ANC calls on all members who have information to approach the Secretary General’s Office.The NEC will develop a Code of Conduct for ANC members doing business with the state.
“In addition, the NEC expressed its utmost disgust at the arrogance, disrespect and reckless journalism displayed by the New Age Newspaper (18, 19 March 2016), ANN7 News Channel (16-18 March 2016) and representatives of the Gupta-family. They have characterized the ANC as a group of factions for and against President Zuma. The NEC also condemns the reports in the City Press and other media outlets on 20 March 2016 containing similar allegations. The ANC reserves its full rights to take the necessary action in this regard.”