We met in person for the first time when, as a group executive, I was interviewed by Pravin Gordhan, or PG as I came to call him, about establishing the South African Revenue Service (Sars) Large Business Centre.
Before I had commenced officially, then Finance Minister Trevor Manuel and Commissioner Gordhan had planned an event to announce the centre. I met PG when he entered the new LBC offices in Sunninghill. After a warm greeting, he very “matter of factly” handed me a folder and said: “You’re making a presentation to introduce the LBC concept. here are some slides”. It was then that I realised that working alongside my new boss, I would have to be on my guard 24X7.
The next few years of early morning calls, intense debates, and short notice requests to take his place for a media interview, a meeting with industry leaders, or chairing an internal meeting on his behalf, confirmed my initial impression. Once, I had just boarded a plane to Cape Town when my phone rang. It was PG who promptly said: “Where are you? I need to see you now”. When he learnt that I was already seated on board, he asked me to deplane. A few minutes later I was heading to see him in Hatfield, Pretoria.
Pravin set incredibly high standards for all of us. But he led by example, and with an unwavering commitment to excellence.
During his 10 years as Sars Commissioner, Gordhan fundamentally reshaped the organisation, turning it into one of the most respected tax authorities in the world. Under his leadership, there was unprecedented modernisation and reform. He introduced systems that improved the efficiency of tax collection and compliance, ensuring that our country’s fiscal health was robustly maintained.
Pravin instilled a culture of integrity, accountability, and professionalism at Sars. His leadership brought about a renewed sense of purpose as he inspired us to serve with dedication and pride. The public's trust in Sars grew significantly during his tenure as they saw a tax authority that was committed to fairness, transparency, and serving the best interests of the nation.
One of his most significant contributions was the implementation of the electronic filing system, e-Filing, in 2001. This innovation not only simplified tax submissions for millions of South Africans but also significantly reduced the room for corruption and maladministration. Pravin's foresight and dedication to embracing technology enabled Sars to collect revenue more effectively, ensuring that the government had the necessary funds to improve public services and invest in the nation's future.
I stood proudly next to him on 1 April 2008 as COO responsible for the Compliance Revenue Programme when we announced our tax revenue results which, to my knowledge, resulted in the first and only budget surplus.
Pravin’s career was a testament to his steadfast resolve and passion for justice, from his early days as a pharmacist to his courageous leadership in the anti-apartheid movement, and later as the commissioner and minister of finance. PG was elected as chair of the World Customs Organisation for more than a single term, something unprecedented before then. His contributions were driven by a deep sense of duty and a vision for a better South Africa. He was a beacon of integrity and determination and devoted his entire life to the service of others.
We mourn his untimely passing and celebrate the remarkable life of Pravin Gordhan. A dedicated public servant, a formidable leader, and an unwaveringly principled man. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow as we remember a life that has left an indelible mark on our nation and its people.
Ed Kieswetter , Sars Commissioner, 2019 — present.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.