EFF will not mourn ‘counter progressive’ Pravin Gordhan

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) says it will not shed a tear for former minister Pravin Gordhan, “nor will we celebrate the false legacies created by his apologists.”

Gordhan, 75, died in hospital during the early hours of Friday morning, his family announced in a statement.

He served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) from 2014 until 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his March 2024 announcement of planned retirement.

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Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.

Reacting to his death, the EFF said he will be remembered for his role in stifling the growth of the country, destroying the hopes of millions, and enabling the collapse of state-owned entities.

“His death comes before he could face justice, but those left behind will continue to suffer the consequences of his betrayal as a Minister of Public Enterprises.”

The EFF said it cannot mourn counter progressive forces that stood against the potential of building a successful, sovereign State that serves its people. It recalled that “Gordhan had already been pointed out earlier for his destructive role in the struggle for liberation when he was named by ANC President Oliver Tambo as a key member of the secret Indian cabal of the 1980s.”

To the majority of South Africans, Gordhan will be remembered for attempting to sell the national airline (SAA) for a shocking R51.

The EFF pointed out that Gordhan’s “unchecked power” enabled him to operate with impunity as he appeared to enjoy great backing from private capital.

“When summoned to appear before Parliament — the very institution through which he was supposed to answer to the people of South Africa — he arrogantly and unapologetically declared that he would not comply, showing his utter disdain for the people of South Africa.”