By Alec Hogg
There was a time when Richemont chairman Johann Rupert enjoyed the public stage. But one too many broadsides from Julius Malema encouraged the country’s most powerful businessman to stay away from the spotlight. Nowadays, in public at least, he tends to stick with required commentary on business affairs. But he couldn’t resist straying back to his more passionate self at the Remgro AGM on Tuesday.
As all who know him will attest, Rupert has always been a larger than life personality. He dominates any room he enters. He was clearly true to form in Somerset West, providing his packed audience with the benefit of forthright views. Sceptics will suggest it is a waste of energy. I’m not so sure.
Jacob Zuma and his blue light brigaders might be detached from economic realities, but like any other human being, they do care how others perceive them. Especially the rich and powerful in the global arena, Rupert’s natural environment, where he speaks freely and often. When a man with his clout cautions that the country’s nuclear power negotiators are babes in the wood; that he perceives its politicians are too corrupt to defend, even enemies should pay attention. And talk. For South Africa’s sake. He’s only a phone call away.
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