They may not see eye-to-eye on many matters, but former finance minister Pravin Gordhan and President Jacob Zuma have at least one thing in common: both are celebrating their birthdays today.
Gordhan, who is celebrating his 68th birthday, said he planned to have a restful day with his family. “A day in which I don’t have to worry about state capture or politics – just a quiet day,” he said.
Zuma, who has come under severe criticism following his decision to fire some ministers, including Gordhan, will try to forget about his troubles as he celebrates his 75th birthday with close supporters, mainly members of the ANC Youth League in Kliptown.
“The president will be celebrating with the people in Kliptown. We brought it to Kliptown because the ANC has a rich history there,” said Njabulo Nzuza, the youth league secretary-general.
Nzuza said the celebrations were not solely organised by the ANCYL as there are other people involved.
Once close comrades, the two are now sitting on opposite sides of the fence despite belonging to the same political party.
Both have grabbed the headlines recently following the controversial cabinet reshuffle. Zuma had reportedly told other ANC leaders his relationship with Gordhan had broken down.