Cape Town — After much speculation, Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan confirmed that he will retire from politics following the conclusion of this year’s elections.
The election date of 29 May will mark Gordhan’s final day in a long and illustrious career for the 74-year-old, who said he chose to retire so he can focus on his health and family, EWN reported.
Gordhan held a number of positions such two-time Minister of Finance, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and his current position of Minister of Public Enterprises.
Public Enterprises minister and Senior ANC leader Pravin Gordhan will not be returning to government after the May 29 general #elections. In an exclusive interview with the Businessday, 74 year old Gordan says he now wants to prioritise his health and family.#KayaNews NPM pic.twitter.com/zEIbuiTd6C
— Kaya 959 News (@KayaNews) March 8, 2024
Gordhan is widely admired for his work as head of the South African Revenue Service and his resistance to state capture as minister of finance during the Zuma era despite immense pressure. But his legacy has been soured by his six years as minister of public enterprises, News24 reported.
He has seen significant deterioration at many state-enterprises including Eskom and Transnet, and has faced a ton of criticism over the decision to sell 51% of SAA for R1 to the Takatso consortium, which was supposed to inject R3 billion into the business. The deal has been shrouded in secrecy.
As reported by IOL, Gordhan joins Minister of International Relations Naledi Pandor and Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, who have already said they will retire from politics after the May 29 polls.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
