Tributes continue to pour in for ANC stalwart and former minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan.
The 75-year-old passed away from cancer in the early hours of Friday, September 13, at a hospital, surrounded by his close family members.
The Gordhan family confirmed his passing in a statement, which read: “Mr Gordhan passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by his family, closest friends and his lifelong Comrades in the liberation struggle in the early hours of this morning.”
South African veteran film producer, Anant Singh, who is responsible for award-winning films “Sarafina!” and “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom”, and who is also Gordhan’s long time friend, paid tribute to the fallen anti-apartheid struggle veteran.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of former minister, Pravin Gordhan. He committed his life to South Africa and played critical roles, beginning as a student activist in Durban, in the liberation movement, in the transition to democracy and in democratic government structures,” said Singh.
He continued to share that Gordhan was a “man of integrity” who was committed to the nation.
“He fought state capture and remained dedicated to creating a better life for all South Africans.”
Singh said that he spent time with the former minister at his retirement dinner a few weeks ago, and during that time, Gordhan was in “good spirits”.
“He was in good spirits and was touched by the tributes paid to him in the video we put together for the event. His remarkable courage, tenacity and commitment to our country, and our people, has been an inspiration to me personally and to all who knew him well.
“He was a great judge of character and a devoted family person. We should celebrate his life and his legacy by trying to emulate some of his qualities,” said Singh.
Former public protector Thuli Madonsela also shared a message on 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 #RIPPravinGordhan💔🕊💐,” she wrote on X.
Meanwhile, several other high-profile people including, former finance minister Trevor Manuel, struggle stalwart Mac Maharaj and former minister of Tourism of South Africa, Derek Hanekom have shared memories and messages of Gordhan at an event held in his honour, at the Nelson Mandela foundation.
Gordhan is survived by his wife Vanitha and children, Anisha and Priyesha.