By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Eskom spokesperson Sikhonathi Mantshantsha has decided to step down as the state-owned utility’s spokesman with effect from 28 February.
Mantshantsha joined Eskom after a career in journalism that included writing critically about the state-owned electricity utility for publications including the Financial Mail and Daily Maverick. He leaves Eskom following the conclusion of a three-year fixed-term contract.
His decision to step down follows the departure of CEO Andre De Ruyter, on whose watch Mantshantsha joined the beleaguered company.
Mantshantsha has become a fixture on television and radio and was seen as a driving force behind the Eskom management team’s willingness to engage with the media – and, by extension, the public – through regular media briefings, especially during periods of heightened load shedding.
“Sikhonathi has been the catalyst in Eskom improving transparency and frequency of information sharing, dealing with several difficult media engagements during his tenure,” said Eskom interim CEO Calib Cassim in a statement.
Daphne Mokwena has been appointed as the interim Eskom spokesperson, while the group seeks a permanent spokesperson. Mokwena is a senior manager who has been with Eskom for over two decades.