South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pravin Gordhan, a lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, who died on Friday at the age of 75 following a short battle with cancer.
The family announced on Friday that Gordhan died in the early hours of Friday “surrounded by his family, closest friends and his lifelong comrades in the liberation struggle”.
Gordhan retired from politics after this year’s general elections to spend time with his family.
Ramaphosa said South Africa has “lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity, and energy with which he undertook his activism.”
He highlighted Gordhan’s personal sacrifices and contributions to various sectors, emphasising his commitment to justice and his fight against corruption.
“Pravin Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets,” Ramaphosa said in a statement.
Gordhan’s extensive political career included significant roles as Minister of Finance from 2009 to 2014 and again from 2015 to 2017, as well as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 to 2015. He served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his announcement of planned retirement in March 2024.
A prominent figure in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle, Gordhan was appointed commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999 after serving as deputy commissioner.
His activism began in the 1970s and 1980s when he played a crucial role in student and civic movements, and as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress.
He also contributed to the armed wing of the African National Congress.
Gordhan was instrumental during South Africa’s transition to democracy, participating in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa multi-party dialogue and later serving as chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
JN/APA