Speculation that there is a conspiracy against Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan has been dismissed as “rumours and gossip” by President Jacob Zuma.<\/p>\n
“These baseless rumours and gossip will not deter or divert government from moving forward with promoting fiscal consolidation and pushing for inclusive growth and job creation,” the presidency said in a statement on Friday.<\/p>\n
“The president, supported by Minister Gordhan and the entire Cabinet, are determined to turn the economy around, working with business and labour.”<\/p>\n
On Monday, Zuma told reporters that Des Van Rooyen was the most qualified finance minister he had ever appointed, prompting speculation of tension between Zuma and Gordhan.<\/p>\n
The presidency said Zuma had full confidence in Gordhan and all his ministers and deputies.<\/p>\n
Business Day reported on Friday that Gordhan had told Zuma shortly before the budget speech that he would resign if Zuma did not remove South African Revenue Service commissioner Tom Moyane, as he could not work with him.<\/p>\n
There were reports that the Hawks sent questions to Gordhan four days before the speech. The questions related to Gordhan’s knowledge of a rogue unit at Sars.<\/p>\n
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