Why Gordhan is no pushover

AT first sight, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan may come across as some political softie who can be pushed around, especially with his fresh-faced charm and avuncular disposition.

But make no mistake – the man’s no pushover.

He’s seen action in the trenches against apartheid, suffered through many months of solitary confinement in prison, and endured countless interrogations and torture by the dreaded security police.

He is also highly principled and since freedom was achieved, has served his people and his country with courage and distinction that has won him credit and accolades not only in South Africa, but all over the world.

So the growing groundswell of moral and political support for him – after charges were levelled against him by the head of the National Prosecuting Authority, Shaun Abrahams – does not come as any surprise.

Many South Africans are now realising there is a clear choice awaiting them.

It’s a choice that’s been brought to the fore by people like Gordhan, who through bold leadership and a strident stand against corruption and maladministration in government, have helped stir a critical debate in South African society today.

Are we going to fight to protect the democracy we fought so hard for, or are we going to allow it to fall into the hands of forces who wish to safeguard their own selfish interests?

Gordhan knows where he stands in this battle and so do a growing number of leaders within the governing party, who are stepping up to the plate.

They include Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, cabinet ministers Naledi Pandor, Aaron Motsoaledi, Ebrahim Patel and Derek Hanekom, former president Kgalema Motlanthe, ANC treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize and a number of struggle luminaries.

On the ground, the support for Gordhan is also growing among leaders of organisations that worked closely with Gordhan during his years with the ANC, the Natal Indian Congress and the United Democratic Front.

No one is arguing with the principle that we are all equal before the law, but there remain some serious questions about how the law has been applied in this case, and for what motive.

Are our law enforcement agencies being used in a bigger and more nefarious political battle about which most ordinary South Africans are not aware?

If this is so, there is genuine reason for the entire nation to be concerned.

When people start losing faith in institutions in which they have put their trust, the future credibility of our entire democracy is at stake.