FNB must explain closing our accounts, says Gupta company

OAKBAY Investments‚ owned by the Gupta family‚ close friends of President Jacob Zuma‚ has demanded an explanation from First National Bank (FNB) for closing the company’s accounts.

“Oakbay has received no reason whatsoever justifying FNB’s actions‚” the company said yesterday.

It said it was already moving its accounts to a more “enlightened institution”.

Oakbay’s demand for an explanation was directed to FNB head Jacques Celliers.

“We find the timing of FNB’s decision staggering, given that Oakbay’s accounts are in excellent financial health and we have been a loyal and profitable customer for many years.

“In December 2015‚ we also received a similar notification from Absa Bank with no explanation.

“Interestingly‚ this remained confidential until a couple of days ago.

“We question the timing of Absa’s making this public‚” Oakbay said.

“These latest incidents are clear proof that recent allegations against the company and the wider Gupta family are part of a carefully orchestrated political campaign‚ which‚ tragically‚ involves some of the country’s most senior institutions and individuals.

“It is very disappointing that FNB [and Absa] have allowed themselves to be dragged into the political infighting by the campaign’s orchestrators‚” the company said.

“We challenge the purveyors of the numerous false allegations made against us in recent months to provide any evidence of wrongdoing. “It is time to put up or shut up. “South Africa is currently facing extreme economic challenges and Oakbay has consistently been a successful job creator and taxpayer for the benefit of South Africa and its citizens.

“We welcome competition and enjoy it.

“We demand an explanation from Jacques Celliers‚” Oakbay said.