Eskom CEO André de Ruyter has survived an alleged attempt on his life.
De Ruyter confirmed to News24 that doctors had found elevated levels of cyanide in his blood on December 13. He did not want to comment further.
Doctors confirmed that he had elevated blood cyanide levels in consecutive tests a few days apart.
De Ruyter had submitted his resignation on December 12 and it was made public two days later.
EE Business Intelligence reported that De Ruyter fell ill after “having a cup of coffee” at Eskom’s Sunninghill offices. He had been vomiting and shaking, he became unable to walk and then collapsed.
He was then taken to the doctor, where he was diagnosed with cyanide poisoning.
The publication reported that De Ruyter opened a criminal case on January 5.
READ | Inside André de Ruyter’s decision to resign as Eskom boss
De Ruyter had previously told News24 that his role as chief executive had begun to feel “impossible”, citing a lack of support for his vision at the utility. He also criticized public attacks by some members of the government on his leadership.
News24 also reported on allegations that Eskom’s new board, appointed last October, had sought to undermine and thwart De Ruyter’s leadership.
The last part of 2022 was marked by strong load shedding episodes throughout the country.
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