Eskom has confirmed the resignation of suspended Group Executive for Information Technology, Sean Maritz.

The utility said it received a letter from Maritz on Thursday 1 March 2018, noting his decision to resign with immediate effect.

Maritz’s resignation comes against the backdrop of serious charges of misconduct that were levelled against him, that would have been adjudicated at his disciplinary hearing scheduled for 8 – 9 March 2018.

According to Eskom the disciplinary process to hold Maritz to account for any proven wrongdoing can no longer be pursued in light of a clear legal precedent that a resignation by an employee unilaterally terminates the employment relationship.

Legal action still a possibility

The utility said it would however reserve all its rights to institute legal action in respect of any damages that the company may have suffered arising from Maritz’s actions at Eskom, and to enforce its legal rights under the Pension Funds Act.

“The Board of Eskom remains committed to its mandate to root out malfeasance and maladministration as a critical foundation to restoring transparent and effective governance,” the utility said in a statement.

“As indicated during the interim results presentation, a key focus for the new Board has been to address governance-related issues as a matter of urgency,” Eskom concluded.