By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
Pravin Gordhan, South Africa’s former Minister of Finance, was a figure who stirred both admiration and animosity. His death on Friday, September 13, at the age of 75, marked the end of a prominent political career. Having battled cancer, Gordhan passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and comrades from the anti-apartheid struggle. Yet, how his legacy is remembered depends largely on who reflects on it.
Gordhan is best known for his strained relationship with former South African president Jacob Zuma, with whom he clashed over fiscal policy and state spending during his time as Finance Minister. Despite their differences, Zuma recalled their early camaraderie, sharing a story about borrowing money from Gordhan to attend an ANC meeting in Eswatini, which was also attended by Thabo Mbeki.
Though a significant figure in South African politics, Gordhan’s career was not without controversy. Allegations of misconduct surfaced during his tenure, and in 2017, he was dismissed as Finance Minister by Zuma in a move that sparked public outcry over political interference in government institutions. Although reinstated later, the incident underscored deep-seated tensions within the South African government.
Gordhan’s death triggered mixed reactions across the political landscape. Former Eskom CEO Matshela Koko condemned him as “evil,” blaming Gordhan for damaging the economy and contributing to Eskom’s struggles, particularly in handling the country’s electricity crisis. Similarly, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led by Julius Malema, refused to mourn him, accusing him of being complicit in the downfall of state-owned enterprises and betraying the South African people. The EFF went so far as to declare that Gordhan’s legacy was “intertwined with destruction.”
In contrast, his family emphasized that Gordhan died without regrets. “We have made our contribution,” he told them in his final days. Meanwhile, political tributes poured in from across the spectrum, with many remembering him as a public servant committed to fighting state capture and defending democracy. President Cyril Ramaphosa described Gordhan as an “outstanding leader” who stood up for justice, particularly during the state capture crisis.
Though his role in state-owned enterprises, particularly Eskom, attracted criticism, his broader contributions to South African politics were significant. He held several key government positions, including Finance Minister and Minister of Public Enterprises, and played a pivotal role in transforming the South African Revenue Service (SARS) into a world-class tax agency.
Pravin Gordhan’s funeral was held at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, where President Ramaphosa’s spokesperson confirmed that he received a special official category 2 funeral service. Gordhan is survived by his wife, Vanitha, and their two daughters, Anisha and Priyesha. Though his legacy may remain a subject of debate, there is no denying that Pravin Gordhan left an indelible mark on South Africa’s political landscape.
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