Tribute to Pravin Gordhan: A lifetime of service

The South African nation is mourning the loss of a true champion of integrity and courage, Pravin Gordhan. Gordhan, a former minister in various government portfolios and the ex-Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, passed away after being admitted to the hospital earlier this week and retiring from politics before the national elections in May. His legacy as a stalwart fighter against state capture and corruption will be remembered for years to come. Reflecting on the passing of Pravin Gordhan, Azar Jammine, Director & Chief Economist at Econometrix, and Johann Van Loggerenberg, former GE of Enforcement at SARS, shared their insights in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Azar Jammine shared his initial reaction to Gordhan's passing, highlighting the admiration he had for Gordhan's courage in standing against corruption and state capture. He recalled a personal encounter with Gordhan in 1992, where he witnessed Gordhan's firsthand account of the struggle for justice in South Africa. Jammine emphasized Gordhan's significant contribution to exposing corruption and the capture of state institutions, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and bravery. Johann Van Loggerenberg praised Gordhan as a superhero in the fight against corruption, likening him to iconic comic book characters who used their ingenuity to combat evil. Van Loggerenberg recounted his experience working with Gordhan at SARS, where they faced formidable challenges in tackling corruption and enforcing tax compliance. He highlighted Gordhan's strategic vision to strengthen SARS' enforcement arm, positioning the organization as a global leader in tax and customs administration. In discussing Gordhan's legacy in the last decade, both Jammine and Van Loggerenberg acknowledged his unwavering commitment to honesty and courage. While Gordhan faced criticism for his stance on state intervention and management of state-owned enterprises, his relentless efforts to combat corruption and uphold ethical standards defined his tenure in public service. Despite his critics, Gordhan's dedication to fighting state capture and preserving South Africa's integrity remained unwavering. His final speech from his hospital bed underscored the devastating impact of corruption on the country, reflecting his deep-seated commitment to eradicating the scourge of state capture. Van Loggerenberg shared a personal anecdote of encountering Gordhan at a media event, reminiscing about their brief interaction and Gordhan's genuine concern for the welfare of all South Africans. He noted Gordhan's exceptional integrity, determination, and focus on collective progress as his enduring legacy. As South Africans mourn the loss of a visionary leader, the legacy of Pravin Gordhan as a fearless fighter for justice and transparency will continue to inspire future generations. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of integrity and determination in the face of adversity, leaving an indelible mark on the history of South Africa.