Former Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan.
The ANC will hold a memorial service for former Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on Tuesday, with another planned in Durban on Wednesday.
His funeral service will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on Thursday, and has been declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 by President Cyril Ramaphosa, according to the Presidency.
Gordhan who served as minister of finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017 and as minister of public enterprises from February, 2018, until his March, 2024, announcement of planned retirement, passed away on Friday, after a period of illness.
The Presidency said the Special Official Funeral Category 2 will entail ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service.
The funeral service will be followed by a private cremation.
Tributes continue to pour in for Gordhan, with the Small Business Institute (SBI), saying his contributions to the country’s democracy and economy, in support of small businesses, will be remembered and cherished.
The SBI’s CEO John Dludlu, said Gordhan’s lifelong activism during pivotal moments in the nation’s history demonstrated a commitment to non-racism, democracy and an inclusive economy that fosters a conducive environment for the prosperity of small businesses.
“During this difficult time for the Gordhan family, we wish them strength, and want them to know they remain in our prayers.
“As we mourn his passing, we also reflect on his rich legacy with hope that the South Africa he fought so hard for, is still achievable. We are committed to his work in advocating for policies that support the growth and sustainability of small businesses which are crucial for job creation in our country,” Dludlu said.
Tuesday’s service will take place at the Johannesburg City Hall at 4pm, while the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal will hold a memorial service at Kendra Hall in Durban on Wednesday, to honour Gordhan.
The Mercury