Police are reportedly probing alleged poisoning of Eskom's CEO in South Africa.
South African power energy company Eskom is currently investigating a potential poisoning attempt against its outgoing CEO, André de Ruyter. The alleged incident occurred in December 2022, as confirmed by de Ruyter himself to News24, who reported that doctors found elevated levels of cyanide in his system[1].
De Ruyter resigned under political pressure on December 14, following a crisis that led to power cuts in South Africa. His last day in office is set for March 31. The investigation into the poisoning incident is ongoing, with no new information provided since January 9, 2023.
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has assured that the case will be thoroughly investigated, and anyone responsible will be charged. However, efforts to reach Gordhan, Eskom's outgoing CEO de Ruyter, and Eskom's board chairman Mpho Makwana for comment have been unsuccessful.
The utility cannot comment further on the poisoning incident due to it being subject to a police investigation. The South African authorities did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment.
The alleged cyanide poisoning was first reported by energy publication EE Company Knowledge on Saturday. The opposition party, Democratic Alliance, has called for decisive action against criminal organizations allegedly seeking to control Eskom, which they claim is damaging the economy.
De Ruyter took office as Eskom's CEO in January 2020 and led a company-wide crackdown on corruption and organized crime, including sabotage at Eskom plants. Gordhan has mentioned an intense fight occurring between those who want South Africa to function and grow, and those who wish to corruptly enrich themselves.
The alleged poisoning incident adds to the tension surrounding Eskom's leadership. The investigation is expected to continue, with updates likely to come from official South African authorities or Eskom statements as the case develops.
[1] https://www.news24.com/news24/SouthAfrica/News/eskom-ceo-andre-de-ruyter-says-doctors-found-elevated-levels-of-cyanide-in-his-system-20230109
The ongoing investigation into the potential poisoning attempt against Eskom's outgoing CEO, André de Ruyter, has raised concerns about crime and justice within the country's general-news landscape. This incident, coupled with allegations of criminal organizations aiming to control Eskom, could potentially have adverse effects on South Africa's economy and politics.
