Alec Erwin vs Manohar Parrikar

Alec Erwin was appointed as South Africa's Minister of Trade and Industry under President Thabo Mbeki. He oversaw the country's trade policy during the post-apartheid era, implementing liberalization measures and negotiating trade agreements.

Erwin led negotiations for the South Africa-European Union Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA). The agreement provided preferential trade access to EU markets for South African goods while phasing out tariffs over 12 years.

Erwin oversaw the implementation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policies in the trade and industry sector. These policies aimed to increase black ownership and management of South African businesses, though they faced criticism for benefiting a small elite.

Erwin resigned as Minister of Trade and Industry following President Mbeki's resignation. His departure marked the end of a 12-year tenure during which South Africa's trade policy shifted from protectionism to greater global integration.

Manohar Parrikar was sworn in as Chief Minister of Goa for the first time, leading a BJP-led coalition government. His tenure was noted for transparency and development-focused governance.

Parrikar was appointed as India's Defence Minister in the Modi government. He oversaw the modernization of the armed forces, including the Rafale fighter jet deal and the surgical strikes across the Line of Control in 2016.

After serving as Defence Minister, Parrikar returned to Goa to become Chief Minister again, leading a coalition government. His return was seen as a stabilizing move amid political uncertainty.

Parrikar died after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. His death led to an outpouring of tributes across the political spectrum, highlighting his reputation as a clean and accessible leader.