Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has confirmed that Eskom Board Chairperson Mpho Makwana has resigned. Makwana will officially step down from the position at the power utility’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for the end of this month.
“Makwana is expected to be replaced by current board member, Mteto Nyati, as Chairperson, with a handover process to be done throughout this month.
Minister Gordhan thanked Makwana for his contribution during the most difficult time for Eskom. He wished him well in his future endeavours,’ said the Department spokesperson Ellis Mnyandu in a statement.
The statement also added that Gordhan emphasized the government’s efforts to stabilize the embattled power utility.
“Our efforts to stabilize Eskom and restructure it into three subsidiaries-generation, transmission, and distribution remain on track.
As government, we are committed to ensuring that Eskom has the right skills, talent, and experience to support our pursuit of a more secure energy future for South Africans,” read the statement.
The statement did not disclose the reason for Makwana’s exit, however in the same statement, Makwana said his sudden exit was handled in a positive and amicable manner.
“I am grateful for the opportunity afforded me by the government of the Republic of South Africa to serve a second term as chairperson of the board of directors of Eskom SOC Limited,” said Makwana.
Makwana’s resignation comes as the power utility is still struggling to keep the lights on and has been without a Chief Executive Officer since the resignation of Andre de Ruyter earlier this year who left after making corruption allegations about some cabinet members.
His resignation also come on the heels of the resignations of Transnet CEO Portia Derby and CEO of Transnet Freight Rail, Siza Mzimela.