Untouchable? Pravin Gordhan's Position Remains Stern Despite Economic Ramifications - an Expert's Analysis

Controversy shrouds Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan, who, despite allegedly costing South Africa between R3 - 7 billion per day and being criticized by the business community, enjoys a firm hold on power. Sandile Swana, a political analyst, asserts that this is because President Cyril Ramaphosa relies heavily on Gordhan, who is described as the President's primary political protector.

"Gordhan is 'untouchable', standing as Ramaphosa’s principal political pillar and a favourite of large business," Swana commented. He further alleged that Gordhan is a prominent part of a clique that fiercely supports Ramaphosa, also consisting of ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe, and former Cabinet Minister Derek Hanekom. However, Hanekom has contested this claim, stating, “No-one is untouchable”.

Swana also claims that the group shielded Ramaphosa during the Phala Phala allegations. Instances like the president's non-action against Gordhan and Mantashe over Bosasa allegations are seen as reciprocation for this support.

Meanwhile, debates in the business community have been ignited over Gordhan’s standing. Despite some calling for his removal following the dismissal of underperforming executives at Transnet, Swana affirms that Gordhan's association with Ramaphosa is strong enough to withstand these challenges. He points out that, although Gordhan’s neoliberal and pro-privatisation views please big business, they also disregard his harmful economic influence.

In rebuttal, Hanekom argues stating that many of the president's supporters have questioned Ramaphosa's indifference to some ministers who campaigned against him. But despite all the controversy, Gordhan continues to stay in the mind's eye of South African politics.