Statement

“Comrade Pravin was a revolutionary beacon for the movement,” said Snuki Zikalala, ANC Veterans’ League President, speaking on the untimely death of the former UDF activist, MK soldier, ANC activist, SARS commissioner and a Minister who held three portfolios, including Minister of Finance.

“He was a patriot, an achiever, a steadfast anti-corruption warrior and a great human being”, said Mavuso Msimang, ANC VL Deputy President.

He leaves behind an indelible legacy.

Comrade Pravin spearheaded community organisation and mobilisation in Durban, now eThekwini, during the 1980s. He then went on to be one of the brains behind the United Democratic Front, exposing attempts by the government to draw Indians as second-class citizens into a tricameral parliament.

Comrade Pravin’s ability to navigate the different aspects of the ANC struggle – armed struggle, underground work, and mass mobilisation-is a testament to his unwavering commitment and resourcefulness. His role in the struggle is a source of inspiration and a reminder of the rich history of our movement.

After 1994, Comrade Pravin was able to shift gears and become an innovative public servant. By blending his struggle experience with that of innovative bureaucracy, he transformed SARS into one of the best-performing tax collection agencies in the world.

When this legacy was threatened by former President Jacob Zuma, Tom Moyane, and the state capture cohorts, it was Comrade Pravin who called on us to “join the dots” on state capture. He very bravely took on his fellow comrades and exposed their destruction of state-owned enterprises. 

He was a dedicated and determined Minister of Finance, Local Government, and Public Enterprises in very challenging times. He had to turn around municipalities and SOE’s ravaged by state capture and facing unprecedented issues stemming from poor management and leadership.

He was a person who did what was right, and not what was popular. For that, he was attacked, especially by those who were most threatened by his commitment to good governance and fighting corruption.

Pravin Gordhan was a pioneer of renewal, of the ANC, and of the country. For that, as the Veterans League, we salute him and commit to continuing his work. 

The ANC Veterans League sends condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and comrades.

May his atma attain moksha.  Hamba kahle qhawe lama qhawe.

Issued by:

Snuki Zikalala, ANC Veterans League President