The South African Communist Party (SACP) is holding a press briefing where it is expected to discuss the future of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan.
President Jacob Zuma's plan to boot out Gordhan, based on what is claimed to be a damning intelligence report, and replace him with former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe, was rejected by the SACP and half of the top six ANC officials.
Details have emerged of how Zuma went to two meetings on Monday armed with an intelligence report believed to contain claims that Gordhan and his deputy, Mcebisi Jonas, had scheduled meetings with people who wanted to overthrow his government.
SACP deputy general secretary Solly Mapaila said that a delegation of SACP office bearers told Zuma the party did not agree with his plans to remove both Gordhan and Jonas. Sources said Zuma met the same opposition when he tabled the matter before the party's top six officials on the same day.
This could explain why Zuma has delayed announcing changes to his cabinet. Until late last night all eyes were on the Union Buildings as Zuma held a late meeting with his cabinet. Speculation was rife that Zuma might announce the changes after the meeting.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 