SARS pays heartfelt tribute to former finance minister Pravin Gordhan

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has honored former Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan, who passed away on Friday at the age of 75.

In a statement, SARS wrote: Today is a day of profound sadness with the passing of former minister Pravin Gordhan, affectionately known as “PG” to many of us, a remarkable steward leader whose contributions to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and our nation will be remembered for generations to come.

“The contribution of Pravin Gordhan may never be truly understood and appreciated by millions of South Africans. For those of us who have had the privilege to work very closely with him, and really got to know him, we will have learnt that he is a man who is truly committed to make contribution to changing the quality of life of South Africans,” were the reflections of Commissioner Ed Kieswetter when Pravin Gordhan was appointed as Finance Minister in 2009.

Pravin Gordhan’s commitment to public service has left an indelible mark

As the Commissioner of SARS from 1999 – 2009, it was PG who ushered in and evangelised the notion that SARS exists to serve a Higher Purpose of enabling government to build a capable democratic state that fosters sustainable economic growth and social development in the interest and wellbeing of all South Africans. It was he who set the organisation on a path that still directs and inspires us today and will continue for decades to come. PG was, without doubt, the one who conceptualised and laid the foundation for a Modern Tax and Customs Administration.

Pravin Gordhan’s leadership and unwavering commitment to public service have left an indelible mark on South Africa’s economic landscape. As a key figure in SARS, he championed policies and reforms that strengthened the institution, transforming it into a globally respected revenue service. His tenure was marked by an unyielding dedication to integrity, good governance, and accountability, ensuring that SARS became the pillar of strength for the nation’s fiscal health.

Beyond his significant work at SARS, he served South Africa with distinction in various leadership roles, including as Minister of Finance, Minister of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs and Minister of Public Enterprises, where his courage and vision guided the country through challenging times. His lifelong commitment to building a fair and just society for all will continue to inspire future generations of public servants and leaders.

‘Committed social activist’

“I will remember him as a committed social activist who dedicated his life to the struggle and the improvement of the material conditions of South Africans at a time when we were in the steely grips of state capture, it was PG who stood fearlessly for justice and equality. He spoke with courage of his deep conviction and did not count the tremendous cost to him and his family,” said Kieswetter.

We mourn the loss of a true patriot, social activist and a steward leader. PG was a life-long revolutionary, a struggle hero, who confronted apartheid unwaveringly, in the public arena and in the underground terrain. After 1990 he was the chairperson of the transitional government and part of the CODESA negotiations. His legacy will continue to guide SARS and South Africa in its pursuit of ethical governance and economic justice.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Vanitha and daughters Anisha and Priyesha, his extended family and friends who experienced his love and friendship, and to all those whose lives were touched by his visionary leadership and dedicated public service.

South Africans remain indebted to his selfless sacrifices and lifelong service. Pravin Gordhan remained a fierce warrior for justice until the very end. May his soul rest in peace.

“Thank you, Pravin, and hamba kahle!”