ANC SG Fikile Mbalula sings Pravin Gordhan’s praises

Fikile Mbalula says the death of Pravin Gordhan has robbed the country of an all-round revolutionary and a selfless servant of the people.

“I stand here with both a bleeding heart and a trembling voice as I engage in efforts to bid farewell to a man who made a meaningful contribution to the lives of our people,” said the ANC Secretary General.

He added that Gordhan was a man of integrity who dedicated his life to creating a better future for the people of South Africa.

Mbalula was speaking at the funeral service of the former Minister of Public Enterprises, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, on Thursday.

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Gordhan, 75, passed away last week in a Johannesburg hospital following a battle with cancer, his family stated. He was afforded a Special Official Funeral Category 2 by the national government.

The Special Official Funeral Category 2 entails ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service.

In his address, Mbalula said he will forever be inspired by Gordhan’s legacy as a principled leader who fought for justice and equality.

“Though he is no longer with us, his commitment to the people and his vision for a better future will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.”

According to Mbalula, there aren’t many political figures who compare to Gordhan’s “dedication and accomplishment.”

Among his accomplishments, he highlighted Gordhan’s participation in the Natal Indian Congress – a political organisation established to fight discrimination against Indians in the Natal colony.