President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on leaders and South Africans alike to reflect on the lessons drawn from the life and activism of the late former Cabinet Minister Pravin Gordhan.
The President urged individuals to embody the values of integrity, courage, and service that defined his leadership.
President Ramaphosa was addressing mourners at Gordhan’s special official funeral held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in eThekwini on Thursday.
"There are a great many lessons we can draw from his life and from his political activism. The most fitting tribute we can pay to him is to reflect on our own actions.
“To consider what we can and should each do to serve our country. To reflect on what it means to be an activist. To consider if we are prepared to weather the great storms that so often confront acts of courage and integrity. It is in times of difficulty that moral courage is valued most. It is at times of renewal and rebuilding that activism is most needed,” the President said.
As South Africa continues to recover from its challenges, President Ramaphosa said government will rely on men and women of integrity to help steer the nation toward a new era.
He described Gordhan as one such leader, whose courage and unwavering commitment to the country’s democratic values will continue to inspire future generations.
“As we strive to rebuild our country, as the Government of National Unity, we will rely on men and women of integrity, honour and courage to support us, to hold us to account, and to help shepherd in a new era for South Africa and its people.
“Pravin Gordhan’s spear has fallen. Let us together pick it up,” President Ramaphosa said, invoking a powerful symbol of the nation’s collective responsibility.
He acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by Gordhan’s family throughout his years of public service, expressing the nation's shared sorrow at the loss of a devoted husband, father, and brother.
As the nation bids farewell to one of its most dedicated public servants, President Ramaphosa concluded his tribute with a poignant message, quoting the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore: "Give me the strength lightly to bear my joys and sorrows. Give me the strength to make my love fruitful in service."
In remembering Gordhan, the President praised his commitment to standing for the poor, his refusal to bow to injustice, and his resilience in the face of personal attacks.
"Where many tried to bring you low with their insults, your feet remained firmly on the high ground. And now you have surrendered your strength to the will of the Creator,” he said.
Gordhan’s legacy, the President stressed, is one of service, integrity, and love for the people of South Africa.
"You were a much admired, much respected, and much loved comrade, colleague, leader, and friend. Rest in peace, good and faithful servant of the people,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
