DEPUTY President Cyril Ramaphosa has joined several voices to openly support Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan against prosecution by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Former Constitutional Court judge Zak Yacoob also added his voice yesterday in support of Gordhan.
Ramaphosa said he supported Gordhan morally and politically, and that he was a man of integrity.
“The situation requires of all South Africans to demonstrate unity in defence of constitutional values, the integrity of our legal system and the objective of setting South Africa on a path of sustainable and inclusive economic growth that will help us overcome poverty, unemployment and inequality,” said Ramaphosa.
His support for Gordhan follows that of several ministers in the cabinet.
Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel and Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom were the first ministers to break ranks last week.
Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi and Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi have also come out in support of Gordhan.
Struggle stalwart Ahmed Kathrada reiterated his support for Gordhan at the weekend, saying it was atrocious that a man of Gordhan’s calibre could be attacked by known and unknown characters.
Ramaphosa said he had known Gordhan for many years, and during the Struggle, and he was an impeccable man.
He said he did not doubt Gordhan's integrity.
Ramaphosa warned last week that state institutions must not be used to prosecute the finance minister.
Gordhan has turned down an offer by NPA head Shaun Abrahams to make representations on a review of the charges.
Tebogo Malatji, Gordhan’s lawyer, said at the weekend Abrahams had in the past refused Gordhan this opportunity.