Cape Town - Premier Alan Winde has extended his condolences to the family and loved ones of former minister Pravin Gordhan, who has sadly passed away.
Gordhan was 75-years-old.
A statement from his family said Gordhan "passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by his family, closest friends and his lifelong comrades in the liberation struggle".
Gordhan was a committed political activist since his teenage years. He elected to retire from active politics after this year’s general election to spend time with his family.
His last portfolio in Cabinet was Minister of Public Enterprises, from 2018 to 2024, after serving two terms as Minister of Finance, from 2009 to 2014 and again from 2015 to 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 to 2015.
Winde said that when he was working closely with Gordhan as Finance MEC “he was always willing to engage our government constructively, despite our differences on policy”.
“Mr Gordhan will be sorely missed.
“In his numerous positions, whether it was in national government or as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Mr Gordhan worked with integrity, purpose and dedication. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time,” Winde said.
Professor Thuli Madonsela also extended her condolences to Gordhan’s family saying: “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.”