Former Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has been hospitalised, his family revealed on Tuesday evening.
Pravin Gordhan Hospitalised
In a short statement, the family confirmed that the 74-year-old is receiving top-notch medical care but offered no details about his condition.
“The family requests privacy during this difficult time,” the statement read, adding that updates would be provided when available.
Gordhan, a key figure in South African politics, announced in March that he would retire following the May elections. His health issues were already public knowledge – last year, a parliamentary meeting with Gordhan was cancelled due to his ill health. A doctor had warned him against air travel.
Illustrious Political Career
Gordhan’s political career spans over five decades. A trained pharmacist, he played a significant role in the anti-apartheid struggle before entering government. After the first democratic election in 1994, he held various positions before joining SARS in 1998.
His time as SARS commissioner, from 1999 to 2009, earned him international recognition. He was appointed to several prestigious roles in organisations like the World Customs Organisation and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
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In 2009, Gordhan took up the role of finance minister. His efforts to defend the National Treasury during Zuma’s presidency earned him widespread admiration. Despite relentless attacks from the ANC, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the Hawks, Gordhan stood firm against the forces of state capture.
However, his legacy has taken a hit due to his recent tenure as Public Enterprises Minister. Eskom continued to struggle, while Transnet faced severe decline under his watch. He also faced backlash for selling a 51% stake in SAA for just R1 to the Takatso consortium, a deal that ultimately fell apart.
Gordhan was last returned to the Cabinet by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2018. Despite his mixed legacy, his contribution to South Africa’s political landscape remains significant.