Zwane, Koko ‘planned Optimum’s takeover’
Former director-general tells Zondo inquiry how then minister centralised Tegeta decisions
The former director-general of the department of mineral resources says he unwittingly played a role in the takeover of Eskom coal supplier Optimum colliery by the Gupta family, outmuscling Glencore. Thibedi Ramontja, who had served the department for 19 years, told the commission of inquiry into state capture on Thursday that he had been sidelined by then minister Mosebenzi Zwane and his three advisers, who created a "misty environment" in which he was excluded from key decisions. Optimum has been at the centre of state capture allegations since former public protector Thuli Madonsela’s 2016 report detailed how, under the tenure of former president Jacob Zuma, Eskom officials forced the sale of Optimum by Glencore and then helped the politically connected Gupta family to buy the company. Ramontja became highly animated when explaining to judge Raymond Zondo, the commission’s chair, how Zwane and those closest to him had "centralised" the Optimum colliery matters in the minister’s o...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.