Cape Town - The potential arrest of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan would be a disaster for South Africa, warned the Democratic Alliance on Tuesday.
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It was commenting on reports that Gordhan was requested to report to the Hawks at 10h00 on Thursday August 25 2016 regarding the alleged SA Revenue Services (Sars) “rogue” unit
"The fact that the Minister has reportedly been requested to appear before the Hawks suggests he may be informed about possible charges and may face arrest", said Democratic Alliance MP David Maynier.
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"The arrest of the Finance Minister would shatter investor confidence, risk a sovereign ratings downgrade and be a disaster for the already fragile zero growth, zero jobs economy in South Africa," he warned.
Maynier said the only option to get to the bottom of the allegations relating to the “rogue unit” is the appointment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry in terms of Section 84 of the Constitution.
The Daily Maverick broke the news on Tuesday evening that Gordhan was summoned to "present" himself to the Hawks.
Former Sars deputy commissioner Ivan Pillay, group executive Johann van Loggerenberg and initial head of the investigative unit, Andries van Rensburg were also asked to report to the Hawks.
National treasury spokesperson Phumza Macanda confirmed that Gordhan received correspondence from the Hawks.
She said the minister is seeking advice on the matter.
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