Eskom confirms Andre De Ruyter’s resignation, Makwana not replacing him
South African power generator, Eskom has confirmed the departure of CEO Andre De Ruyter but says Mpho Makwana won’t replace him. Makwana is currently serving as the Eskom Board chairperson and he said they are working hard to find De Ruyter’s successor. Media reports surfaced on Wednesday that the under-fire De Ruyter vacated his office
Eskom confirms Andre De Ruyter’s resignation, Makwana not replacing him
South African power generator, Eskom has confirmed the departure of CEO Andre De Ruyter but says Mpho Makwana won’t replace him.
Makwana is currently serving as the Eskom Board chairperson and he said they are working hard to find De Ruyter’s successor.
Media reports surfaced on Wednesday that the under-fire De Ruyter vacated his office as he faced pressure from different sectors of the economy.
In a media statement sighted by BusinessTech Africa, Makwana also thanked the outgoing CEO, saying he will work at Eskom until the end of December.
“Mr. De Ruyter has agreed to stay for an additional period beyond the stipulated 30 days’ notice to ensure continuity while we urgently embark on a search for his successor. His last day at Eskom will be 31 March 2023,” said Makwana.
“On behalf of the Eskom Board, executive, and the entire Eskom staff, I thank De Ruyter for his extraordinary service to the people of South Africa. I also thank De Ruyter’s family for supporting the Group Chief Executive during the tumultuous period.”
#Eskom #MediaStatement
— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) December 14, 2022
Resignation of Eskom Group Chief Executive pic.twitter.com/vDmm106OAy
Additionally, De Ruyter expressed that it was an honour for him to work with the embattled power utility.
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve Eskom and South Africa. I wish all the hard-working people of Eskom well,” said De Ruyter.
The power generator has since confirmed that there is no plan for Makwana to become an interim CEO and that a comprehensive executive search will be conducted to find a suitably qualified candidate.
Meanwhile, Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan praised De Ruyter for carrying himself as a true professional.
“André has carried an enormous burden on behalf of South Africa, I want to thank him for his sacrifice and resilience in a difficult job,” he added.
He further added that all Eskom programmes will continue as business continuity is of primary importance for the country.
Business Unity South Africa has described De Ruyter’s exit as a major blow to the country’s efforts in resolving the energy supply crisis.
@Zukx reacted on social media:
“I welcome his resignation. I hope it doesn’t end there. He must be held accountable.”
@Nkosana said:
“Good riddance, long overdue, he was good for nothing.”
@Tiffany wrote:
“So after creating the mess he is resigning?”
