State Capture Gordhan Lauded for Fighting Corruption
In a recent turn of events, South African political parties, with the notable exception of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), have come together in lauding Minister Pravin Gordhan for his resolute stance against state capture. This comes at a time when corruption remains a critical issue, threatening the stability and progress of South Africa. Let’s explore the details of why State Capture Gordhan determination to root out corruption and his handling of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have received widespread praise.

What is State Capture and Why Does It Matter?
State capture refers to the type of systemic political corruption where private individuals influence a nation’s decision-making process to their benefit. In South Africa, this issue became highly publicised during the tenure of former president Jacob Zuma, where it was revealed that key government positions and contracts were influenced by private individuals, notably the Gupta family. This created an environment where public resources were syphoned off, leaving institutions weakened and public trust shattered.
Pravin Gordhan has shown unwavering resilience in the face of immense pressure, becoming a symbol of hope in the fight against corruption.
Gordhan’s Role in Tackling State Capture
The Resilience of Pravin Gordhan
Pravin Gordhan, who serves as the Minister of Public Enterprises, has long been known for his no-nonsense approach to corruption. During his time in office, he faced mounting pressures and threats. Despite these challenges, Gordhan remained firm in his mission to dismantle corrupt networks within South Africa’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
SOEs: The Battleground for Reform
One of the major areas affected by state capture was South Africa’s SOEs. Key enterprises such as Eskom, South African Airways (SAA), and Transnet were at the heart of the corruption scandal. Gordhan has been tasked with the nearly impossible job of reforming these entities, removing corrupt officials, and ensuring they serve the public interest again. His efforts in this regard have been commendable.
EFF STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF PRAVIN GORDHAN
Friday, 13 September 2024.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the death of Pravin Gordhan without any pretence of sorrow. Gordhan was a man whose legacy is deeply intertwined with the destruction of our state-owned enterprises and the betrayal of the people of South Africa. We cannot mourn counter-progressive forces that stood against the potential of building a successful, sovereign country that serves its people. Instead, we are reminded of the wreckage he leaves behind—wreckage that has ravaged the lives of ordinary South Africans.
His rise within the ANC ranks led to his appointment as the Minister of Finance in 2009 under President Jacob Zuma, a position he held until 2014, and then again from 2015 to 2017 after briefly stepping down. However, Gordhan had already been pointed out earlier for his destructive role in the struggle for liberation when he was named by ANC President Oliver Tambo as a key member of the secret Indian cabal of the 1980s.
The cabal was notorious for the prosecution of Mama Winnie Mandela, which was rejected by our people. Later on, Gordhan also admitted to the formation of the notorious rogue unit within the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which terrorised political rivals on behalf of white monopoly capital, and which Commander-in-Chief Julius Malema was a target of.
In 2018, Gordhan was appointed Minister of Public Enterprises under President Cyril Ramaphosa, a move that signalled his role in “cleaning up” the very state-owned enterprises that would later deteriorate under his leadership. It is here, in his final public role, that Gordhan would preside over the disintegration of South Africa’s most critical state assets.
Gordhan was the embodiment of greed, corruption, and elitism. His tenure as Minister of Public Enterprises was a period of unparalleled disaster for every state-owned enterprise he touched. Under his leadership, Eskom became a shadow of its former self, plunging this country into a permanent state of load-shedding, while blackouts shattered livelihoods and businesses across the nation.
Transnet, which once facilitated the efficient movement of goods, is now in ruins, barely able to function. Denel, a proud defence company, was brought to its knees, while SAA, our national airline, was sold off in a corrupt deal that reeks of treason.
The infamous SAA Takatso deal, which Gordhan orchestrated, remains one of the most scandalous examples of how he sold out our nation’s assets for private interests. The deal was inexplicable, underhanded, and deliberately designed to benefit a select few at the expense of the many. Even now, the full extent of its treachery has not been properly scrutinised because Gordhan, a man at the centre of corruption, evaded accountability at every turn.
In fact, in his final days as Minister, Gordhan brazenly spat in the face of South Africans, refusing to account to them. When summoned to appear before Parliament—the very institution through which he was supposed to answer to the people of South Africa—he arrogantly and unapologetically declared that he would not comply, showing his utter disdain for the people of South Africa.
His unchecked power allowed him to operate with impunity, and now he dies with his crimes unpunished. Every collapsed enterprise and every failure that left hundreds of thousands unemployed is part of Pravin Gordhan’s shameful legacy. As an unapologetic instrument of capitalism, he deliberately dismantled the very entities meant to uplift and develop our nation. His actions directly contributed to the high levels of unemployment, leaving countless families who are still suffering in silence. Gordhan betrayed the workers, the poor, and the oppressed, and he did so without a shred of remorse.
We will not shed a tear for the likes of Pravin Gordhan, nor will we celebrate the false legacies created by his apologists. He will be remembered for his role in stifling the growth of our nation, destroying the hopes of millions, and enabling the collapse of our economy.

Political parties rally around Gordhan
Broad Support, Except from the EFF
In a rare display of unity, most South African political parties have rallied behind Gordhan. Parties such as the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA), and others have praised him for his tireless work. However, the EFF has notably refrained from offering their support, criticising Gordhan’s handling of SOEs and accusing him of being part of the problem rather than the solution.
Why the EFF Stands Apart
The EFF’s criticisms of Gordhan stem from their belief that the problems within the SOEs are a result of mismanagement and neoliberal economic policies. They argue that Gordhan’s approach to privatisation is flawed and that public resources should be handled differently. Their criticism, however, is seen by many as more of a political stance than a constructive critique.
Key Milestones in Gordhan’s Fight Against State Capture
1. Cleaning Up Eskom
Eskom, South Africa’s largest electricity provider, was one of the most affected by corruption. Gordhan’s efforts to stabilise the company despite its monumental debt and ongoing load-shedding challenges have earned him praise. His relentless pursuit of accountability has helped remove some of the key players responsible for the company’s downfall.
2. The SAA Saga
South African Airways, another major SOE, was on the brink of collapse due to years of mismanagement and corruption. Gordhan has been instrumental in trying to rescue the airline, though the process has been arduous and faced with numerous challenges.
3. Rebuilding Transnet
Transnet, the state-owned freight logistics company, was similarly affected by corrupt contracts. Gordhan’s attempts to overhaul the company and restore public trust have been central to his broader anti-corruption efforts.
The public’s reaction to Gordhan’s efforts
The South African public has responded positively to Gordhan’s actions, seeing him as one of the few politicians willing to stand up against corruption. Many citizens, tired of the endless scandals and financial mismanagement, view him as a symbol of hope for a future free of state capture.
The battle against state capture is a collective responsibility, demanding active participation from every citizen to secure a corruption-free future for South Africa.
Challenges Facing Gordhan Moving Forward
1. Continued Political Pressure
Gordhan continues to face political pressure, both from opposition parties and from factions within his own party. Despite the support he’s received, there are still powerful interests working against him, making his job even more difficult.
2. The Ongoing SOE Crisis
The reform of South Africa’s SOEs remains a monumental task. Eskom’s load-shedding crisis continues, and SAA is still struggling to find its footing. The road ahead for Gordhan is long, and the outcomes of his efforts are far from certain.
3. Public Perception and Fatigue
While Gordhan has received widespread support, public fatigue over the ongoing corruption scandals is real. The people of South Africa are eager for quick results, and if Gordhan’s reforms don’t yield tangible outcomes soon, public sentiment could turn.
What’s Next for South Africa’s Fight Against Corruption? State Capture Gordhan
Building stronger institutions
The fight against state capture requires not just the efforts of individuals like Gordhan but also the strengthening of South Africa’s institutions. Corruption thrives where institutions are weak, and it will take concerted efforts across all levels of government to ensure that this type of corruption doesn’t take hold again.
The Role of Civil Society
Civil society has an essential role to play in holding the government accountable. Transparency and active participation by the public can help create a system where corruption is harder to hide and easier to expose.
Conclusion: State Capture Gordhan Lauded for Fighting Corruption
State Capture Gordhan’s efforts to combat state capture are undeniably significant. He has shown resilience in the face of tremendous political and personal pressure, earning him the respect of many across the political spectrum. While challenges remain, his commitment to reforming South Africa’s SOEs and rooting out corruption is a key part of the country’s ongoing journey toward political and economic stability.
However, it’s clear that the battle against corruption is far from over. The success of Gordhan’s efforts will depend on continued political support, the strengthening of institutions, and the sustained engagement of the public.
In the end, South Africa’s fight against state capture is a collective one, requiring the efforts of every citizen to ensure that corruption does not define the future of the nation.

FAQs – State Capture Gordhan Lauded for Fighting Corruption
Who was Pravin Gordhan?
Pravin Gordhan is a prominent South African political figure best known for his unwavering commitment to social justice and his instrumental role in the fight against apartheid. He later served in key government positions, including Minister of Finance, playing a vital role in shaping South Africa’s democratic institutions.
Why is Pravin Gordhan praised for his stance against state capture?
Gordhan is praised for his commitment to dismantling corrupt networks, particularly within South Africa’s state-owned enterprises.
Why does the EFF not support Gordhan?
The EFF criticises Gordhan’s handling of SOEs, arguing that his economic policies contribute to mismanagement and that privatisation isn’t the answer.
What are the main challenges facing Gordhan in his fight against corruption?
Gordhan faces political pressure, the ongoing crisis within SOEs, and the need to maintain public support despite slow progress in reforms.
How can civil society help combat state capture?
Civil society can play a role by holding the government accountable, promoting transparency, and staying actively involved in political processes.