Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan, born on April 12, 1949, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, led an extraordinary life dedicated to the liberation and development of South Africa.
He qualified as a pharmacist at the University of Durban-Westville. He later earned a postgraduate diploma in economics from the London School of Economics, which provided a firm foundation for his future endeavours in public service.
On Friday, the Gordhan family announced the passing of the veteran cabinet minister after a short, courageous battle with cancer. He died peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by family, close friends, and lifelong comrades from the liberation struggle.
Gordhan was 75 years old and left behind his beloved wife Vanitha and their daughters Anisha and Priyesha. In a farewell statement, he expressed no regrets regarding his contributions to South Africa’s progress
From the 1970s, Gordhan was an active member of the ANC/SACP underground movement, during which he endured three detentions by the apartheid government.
His commitment to democracy was further demonstrated through his involvement in the CODESA multi-party dialogue, which led to the establishment of South Africa’s first democratic government.
As Minister of Public Enterprises and Cooperative Governance, Pravin Gordhan shaped policies that addressed significant national challenges, including his transformative role at the South African Revenue Service.
In his final public address, he articulated a vision for a united, just society. Pravin Gordhan’s legacy is one of a strong moral compass, a quality that will inspire generations to come.
