CAPE TOWN – Barbara Creecy, the head of the finance portfolio in Gauteng, has been touted as the top candidate to replace Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene – who is reported to have asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to relieve him of his duties.

Nene’s request came after he made the revelation that he had visited the Guptas.

Nene revealed these details at the Zondo Commission. Soon afterward, the minister made a public apology about the matter.

Former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas is also considered a front-runner, along with SA Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago and one of his deputies, Daniel Mminele, according to a report by Bloomberg.

President Ramaphosa’s spokesperson said on Monday that his office was not aware of Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene’s request to be relieved of his duties after he admitted to visiting the Gupta brothers.