Presidency notes charges against Gordhan
The Presidency has reacted to Tuesday's announcement by the National Prosecuting Authority that finance minister, Pravin Gordhan is being charged with fraud.
In the statement the Presidency says it has noted the announcement by the NPA regarding the summons issued to minister Gordhan.
President has urged the NPA and other institutions concerned to conduct the matter with the necessary dignity and respect.
The National Prosecuting Authority on Tuesday issued Gordhan with a summons to appear in court in November.
The charges relate to the early retirement of former SARS official Ivan Pillay which the NPA says cost the South African Revenue Service R1.1 million.
President Zuma said that the rule of law and judicial processes must be respected.
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"Our society is anchored on the rule of law as well as fair and just judicial processes. In this regard, Minister Gordhan is innocent until and unless proven otherwise by a court of law. This is a fundamental pillar of our constitutional democracy and the rule of law," said the President.
According to the Presidency, Zuma reaffirmed his support for the minister and added that the decision by the NPA came at the most sensitive time for the country.
"Minister Gordhan was successfully leading initiatives towards economic revival, bringing together business, government and labour in efforts to reignite growth so that jobs can be saved and created," Zuma said.