South African Finance Wizard Pravin Gordhan Dies at 75

Pravin Gordhan, former South African finance minister renowned for fighting corruption and tax reform, passed away at 75 due to cancer. Revered as an anti-apartheid activist, he played a significant role in ending white minority rule and stood firmly against state capture.

South African politician Pravin Gordhan, who made significant contributions as finance minister by overhauling the tax service and battling corruption under a former president, died from cancer at 75 on Friday, his family confirmed.

Gordhan's tenure is notably marked by his efforts to combat 'state capture' by private interests during the presidency of Jacob Zuma. He was a vocal critic of state corruption, highlighting the need for systemic change. His family expressed that he passed away peacefully in the hospital, surrounded by relatives, close friends, and lifelong comrades from the liberation struggle.

A revered figure within the African National Congress, Gordhan is also remembered for his anti-apartheid activism and his role in the negotiations leading to the end of white minority rule in 1994. President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded Gordhan's sacrifices and achievements, noting his resistance against those undermining democracy. Gordhan held several crucial ministerial positions, announcing his retirement in March, and is widely credited with modernizing South Africa's tax system during his tenure as commissioner of the South African Revenue Service from 1999 to 2009.

(With inputs from agencies.)