By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has provided an update on the former public enterprises minister Pravin Gordhan amid speculation on his condition.
Mbalula said he had visited Gordhan in hospital on Thursday morning.
He said , comrade PG remains in a critical condition in hospital.
“We believe that the medical team is doing all that is necessary to give Comrade Pravin Gordhan the best care. We remain hopeful for his recovery.
“We have extended our heartfelt words of encouragement to the Gordhan family, offering support during this difficult time,” he said.
Mbalula asked all members of the ANC and the country at large to keep the Gordhan family in prayer.
“Comrade Pravin Gordhan is a veteran of our liberation struggle, having played a pivotal role in the underground machinery of the congress and the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the former Natal region,” he said.
He added that Gordhan’s dedication to the cause of freedom and justice is a testament to his unwavering commitment to our movement.
“In addition to his remarkable contribution to the struggle for liberation, Comrade PG has served the people of South Africa with distinction in public service, particularly, in his role as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and as a Cabinet minister in various roles, where he carried himself with integrity and diligence,” Mbalula said.
The ANC secretary-general condemned fake news spread on social media about the former minister’s death.
“This insensitive and harmful action caused unnecessary pain and distress to families during already difficult times.
“It is only the family of Pravin Gordhan that has got the authority to make such pronouncements.”
Meanwhile President Cyril Ramaphosa says he has spoken to Gordhan, who is being treated in hospital, and conveyed his best wishes.
Ramaphosa was addressing the media after answering questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
Gordan left Parliament after the May elections.
The ministry of public enterprises ceased to exist after the elections. The co-ordination of relevant public enterprises is now located under the Department of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (DPME) during the process of implementing a new shareholder model.