Pravin Gordhan: A Lifelong Fighter for Justice and Democracy
Pravin Gordhan, anti-apartheid veteran and former South African finance minister, passes away at 75. A key figure in South Africa’s democracy and fight against corruption.
Sir Pravin Gordhan Dies at 75
Pravin Gordhan, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and former finance minister of South Africa, has passed away at the age of 75. His family announced that Gordhan died in hospital early Friday morning after a brief, courageous battle with cancer. Known for his pivotal role in South Africa’s fight for democracy, Gordhan’s death marks the end of a long political career dedicated to public service and justice.
A Champion of South Africa’s Democracy
Born in Durban in 1949 to Indian immigrant parents, Gordhan began his involvement in the anti-apartheid movement as a pharmacy student in the early 1970s. He became an integral part of the United Democratic Front (UDF), a coalition of anti-apartheid organizations. Gordhan was jailed several times for his activism but continued to fight tirelessly for the end of white-minority rule.
In 1991, Gordhan co-chaired the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (Codesa), helping to negotiate the peaceful end of apartheid and the transition to a democratic government. This achievement cemented his legacy as a crucial figure in South Africa’s journey to freedom.
A Strong Leader in Government
After apartheid, Gordhan held several significant government positions, including his notable role as finance minister from 2009 to 2014, and again from 2015 to 2017. He is credited with transforming the South African Revenue Service (SARS) into a highly respected institution, boosting the nation’s financial credibility during his tenure from 1999 to 2009.
Gordhan became known for his fight against state capture—where private interests, often for corrupt purposes, influence government institutions. He was sacked in 2017 by then-President Jacob Zuma due to his opposition to corrupt practices within the administration. Gordhan’s strong stance against corruption won him national and international respect.
A Humble Retirement
In 2018, Gordhan was appointed as the Minister of Public Enterprises, tasked with addressing issues within South Africa’s troubled state-owned companies such as Eskom and South African Airways. Despite his efforts, these entities continued to face major challenges, and Gordhan announced his retirement from politics in May 2024, months before his passing.
In his final message, Gordhan expressed no regrets about his career, saying, “We have made our contribution.”
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to Gordhan, calling him an outstanding leader and a beacon of the fight against corruption. Gordhan is survived by his wife Vanitha and daughters Anisha and Priyesha.
