Ramaphosa pays moving tribute at funeral of late Pravin Gordhan

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a moving eulogy at the funeral of the late former minister Pravin Gordhan.

Mourners gathered at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre Complex, in Durban – on Thursday – where they bid their final farewells to Gordhan. Affectionately known as “PG”, the 75-year-old anti-apartheid activist died last week, after a brief battle with cancer.

“He played an important role in our country’s peaceful transition to democracy, contributing positively at all times, without sacrificing any of his principles,” reflected Ramaphosa.

Eulogy by President @CyrilRamaphosa at the Special Official Funeral of Mr Pravin Gordhan, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre, Ethekwini. https://t.co/tYZXtZzLXI pic.twitter.com/YQor1B9mfb

— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) September 19, 2024

Gordhan wore many hats. He was a pharmacist by trade, the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Public Enterprises, the Deputy Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Commissioner of SARS and more.

‘HE MAY NOT HAVE SEEMED THE BEST CHOICE’

“As a pharmacist, as a dedicated revolutionary, he may not have seemed the best choice to lead the South African Revenue Service, because how do you mix tax and pharmaceuticals? But in him we found an intelligent person, who was steeped in enterprise and diligence,” said the leader of the Government of National Unity.

READ RAMAPHOSA’S FULL EULOGY HERE.

Gordhan’s firstborn, Anisha Gordhan also reflected on the life of her father. She thanked the public for their support:

“The outpouring of love since the passing of my dad has been a great source of comfort for us. We gather here today to honour the extraordinary life of Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan, a name that will forever be etched in the heart of our nation,” said Anisha.

‘I WAS UNABLE TO SAVE MY FATHER’

Her sister, Priyesha Gordhan, also took to the podium:

“It is difficult for me, as a medical person, that I was unable to save my father and it is something that I will have to deal with in the years ahead. From his teachings and his influence, I am deeply committed to our public healthcare system, and hopefully I can make a difference to other people and their families,” said an emotional Priyesha.

[OBITUARY]: Special Official Funeral Service for former Minister Pravin Jamnadas Gordhan (1/2) pic.twitter.com/d7N8ALb4cF

— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) September 19, 2024