EFF vs Pravin Gordhan
By Thabo Mosia
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) issued a scathing statement on Friday, 13 September 2024, following the passing of former Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan. The EFF did not mince words, condemning Gordhan’s legacy and reflecting on what they consider his destructive impact on South Africa’s state-owned enterprises. The statement, delivered by the EFF’s National Spokesperson, Leigh-Ann Mathys, highlighted the party’s longstanding opposition to Gordhan, attributing widespread issues in public governance to his tenure.
The EFF’s Statement on Gordhan’s Legacy
The EFF categorically rejected any pretence of mourning Gordhan’s death, stating that his legacy is one of “betrayal of the people of South Africa” and the dismantling of state-owned entities. The statement read: “We cannot mourn counter-progressive forces that stood against the potential of building a successful, sovereign country that serves its people. Instead, we are reminded of the wreckage he leaves behind—wreckage that has ravaged the lives of ordinary South Africans.”
The EFF specifically condemned Gordhan’s role in the formation of the South African Revenue Service’s (SARS) alleged rogue unit, which they claim was used to “terrorise political rivals on behalf of white monopoly capital.” According to the EFF, this unit targeted political leaders, including the EFF’s own Commander-in-Chief, Julius Malema.
The party further criticised Gordhan’s tenure as Minister of Public Enterprises, accusing him of overseeing the disintegration of South Africa’s most critical state-owned enterprises. The EFF pointed to Eskom’s descent into load-shedding, Transnet’s collapse, and the controversial SAA Takatso deal, which they described as one of the most “scandalous examples of how he sold out our nation’s assets for private interests.”
Ramaphosa’s Statement and Responses from Other Political Parties
Following Gordhan’s death, President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a statement offering condolences to Gordhan’s family and paying tribute to his years of service in South Africa’s government. Ramaphosa commended Gordhan for his role in steering the South African Revenue Service into a world-class institution and fighting corruption in public enterprises.
Political parties across the spectrum issued varied responses to Gordhan’s passing. The African National Congress (ANC) hailed Gordhan as a stalwart who dedicated his life to the liberation of South Africa and rebuilding its institutions. The Democratic Alliance (DA) echoed sentiments of respect for Gordhan’s efforts in safeguarding public institutions during challenging periods.
However, the EFF’s condemnation of Gordhan’s legacy stands out, as the party refrained from offering condolences and instead used the moment to revisit their long-standing grievances with his leadership.
Gordhan’s Hospitalisation and Death
Pravin Gordhan was hospitalised earlier this week following a short battle with cancer. The announcement of his death came on 13 September 2024. At the time of his passing, Gordhan was surrounded by his family, close friends, and comrades from the liberation struggle. His death marks the end of a lengthy political career that spanned decades and involved both moments of praise and intense controversy.
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