UPDATE: Now ANC tells Gordhan, Mchunu 'sorry, we were wrong'

The ANC has done an about-turn after issuing a statement criticising Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan and Senzo Mchunu for allegedly "attacking" black professionals.

The apology came soon after Gordhan demanded a public apology on Thursday.

The governing party responded in a statement, offering an "unreserved apology" to both ANC leaders.

"The ANC, following a thorough investigation on statements attributed to both Gordhan and Mchunu, has established that their remarks were taken out of context."

Also read: Gordhan demands apology from ANC after party says he 'attacked' black engineers

Gordhan addressed a letter to ANC secretary general Ace Magashule demanding a retraction and apology relating to the alleged remarks.

"The ANC remains committed to supporting black professionals, academics and entrepreneurs across sectors and believes that they are important role players in our economy.

"The ANC will meet with the black professionals in the coming week and engage on issues of mutual interest and unpack how the ANC’s manifesto responds to the pressing issues affecting them that arose from earlier engagements," the statement reads.