The opposition have called for Zuma’s resignation, saying the entire cabinet is compromised, and its main spokesman, Zizi Kodwa, said the party had to “send a clear message, unequivocally” that it could not be unduly influenced.
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The Guptas, who sit on the boards of at least six companies with Zuma’s son, Duduzane, denied making job offers to anyone in government.
Opposition lawmakers said Zuma’s decision to fire the finance minister, replace him with a relatively unknown parliamentarian, and then again replace him with a more experienced former finance minister weakened the economy and currency.
That may even have stretched to Zuma’s decision to sack respected finance minister Nhlanhla Nene in December, a move that sent financial markets and the rand into a tail-spin.
Speaking in a Q&A session in parliament, the president responded to a question from DA leader Mmusi Maimane, addressing the matter.
As he left, members of the Democratic Alliance followed him out.
The Indian family has built a massive business empire in South Africa, with interests in mining, media, travel, engineering and computers.
Zuma, who has previously said his ties with the Gupta family are above board, has been plagued by scandals over the years.
South Africa’s constitutional democracy, formed 22 years ago, is facing a serious crisis as President Jacob Zuma and his supporters look to advance their personal interests, former president FW de Klerk said on Thursday.
Maimane also criticised the ruling African National Congress (ANC) after the exchange in parliament, which led to his being ordered out of the chamber.
“Any suggestion that the Gupta family or any of our representatives or associates have offered anyone a job in government is totally false”, the family said in a statement Wednesday.
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Jonas’ bombshell comes just days after former ANC MP Vytjie Mentor revealed that she had been offered the post of Minister of Public Enterprises by the Guptas when Barbara Hogan was removed from the position in 2010.
