RIP Pravin Gordhan: Ramaphosa pays tribute to the former minister

President Cyril Ramaphosa states that South Africa has lost a remarkable leader in Pravin Gordhan as the nation grieves his passing.

Gordhan, 75, passed away early on Friday, 13 September. He was admitted to hospital on Tuesday in critical condition. 

RAMAPHOSA MOURNS PRAVIN GORDHAN’S DEATH

Following the former minister’s passing, Ramaphosa has offered deep condolences to his wife, Vanitha Raju, and daughters, Anisha and Priyesha.

“We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity, and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian, and his roles as a member of Cabinet.

“Pravin Gordhan’s sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation,” he said. 

The president also hailed the former member of Parliament for his contribution to fighting corruption and state capture. 

“In the latter years of this service to the nation, and as a beacon of our fight against corruption, Pravin Gordhan stood up to ridicule 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.

“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much-needed and deserved time together. As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution,” Ramaphosa said.

CONDOLENCES POUR IN FOR FORMER MINISTER

Condolences are pouring in for Gordhan who announced his retirement ahead of the 2024 elections saying he wants to focus on his health.

Former Public Protector advocate Thuli Madonsela expressed shock at Gordhan’s passing.

“Shocked and deeply saddened by the news of the passing of former minister and struggle stalwart Pravin Gordhan. He worked selflessly to help bring about democracy and did a stellar job in making SARS a world class institution. Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues,” she said.

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) said Pravin Gordhan’s legacy is one of courage and unwavering integrity.

“He stood firm in the fight for justice and accountability, inspiring us all to do the same.”

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has also extended his condolences to Pravin Gordhan’s family and friends.

“He left an enormous impact at SARS and bravely stood up against corruption. We will remember his legacy of servant leadership,” Steenhuisen said.