Board backtracks on Molefe

IN A DECISION that surprised no one, the Eskom board yesterday rescinded its decision to reinstate Brian Molefe as the power utility’s chief executive.

Eskom’s initial decision to reinstate Molefe drew criticism from political parties, civil society organisations and the public.

Molefe left Eskom in November after he was implicated in the public protector’s “State of Capture” report for an alleged relationship with the Guptas. The family had allegedly tried to form a business deal with the utility.

On March 12, it was announced Molefe would return to his job, which triggered a backlash from the ANC and the DA.

Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown this week told Eskom to rescind its decision.

Her instruction was at the behest of an inter-ministerial committee, appointed by President Jacob Zuma, after Brown faced a grilling in Parliament.

Eskom released a statement yesterday confirming that it had followed Brown’s directive.

“In giving effect to and on the basis of the minister’s directive contained in the letter dated May 31, 2017, it was resolved that the resolution of the board of directors taken on May 2, 2017, is rescinded,” the board said.

“Furthermore, it was resolved that the reinstatement agreement concluded between Mr Molefe and Eskom on May 11, 2017, be rescinded.

“In consequence, Mr Molefe is no longer the group chief executive of Eskom and will no longer serve as a director on the board of Eskom.”