David Mabuza
By Mpho Moloi
The nation is in mourning following the passing of former Deputy President David Mabuza, who died on Thursday, 3 July 2025, at the age of 64 after a short illness. Known for his unwavering commitment to strengthening ties between the government and traditional leaders, Mabuza leaves behind a legacy celebrated by political figures, traditional authorities, and ordinary South Africans. President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that Mabuza will be honoured with a State Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 12 July 2025, reflecting his significant contributions to the country.
A Nation Mourns a Dedicated Leader
David Dabede Mabuza passed away in a Gauteng hospital after experiencing sudden breathing difficulties. Family spokesperson Desmond Moela confirmed, “He suddenly passed away while still in the emergency room with doctors who were assisting to stabilise him.” The news came as a shock, especially as Mabuza had recently returned from Russia, where he sought medical treatment in late June 2025. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes across South Africa and beyond.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed the nation’s sorrow, stating, “Deputy President Mabuza passed away today, Thursday, 3 July 2025, at a hospital following a short illness. He was 64 years of age.” The Presidency has declared a period of National Mourning from Monday, 7 July, to the evening of Saturday, 12 July, with the National Flag to be flown at half-mast at all flag stations. The State Funeral Category 2, reserved for Deputy Presidents and former Deputy Presidents, will include military ceremonial honours, underscoring Mabuza’s esteemed status.
The National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) mourned his loss deeply. Chairperson Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo said, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mrs Mabuza, the children, and the people of Mpumalanga during this time of grief.” The NHTKL praised Mabuza’s role as chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on Traditional Leadership, noting that he “consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the relationship between government and traditional leadership” through “meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect.”
Tributes Highlight a Life of Service
The African National Congress (ANC), where Mabuza served as Deputy President from 2017 to 2022, remembered him as a “dedicated servant of the people” and a “seasoned leader.” ANC National Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said, “Comrade David Mabuza, affectionately known as ‘DD,’ was a stalwart of the democratic struggle. He served the ANC with loyalty, dignity, and discipline.” The party highlighted his role in fostering unity, with Bhengu noting his “calm and steady hand” during challenging times.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who succeeded Mabuza, spoke of their close bond outside the Mabuza family home in Bryanston, Johannesburg, on Friday, 4 July 2025. “He would always say to me, ‘I want unity,’ and that’s what I want to remember him for,” Mashatile said. He urged ANC members to honour Mabuza by recommitting to service and unity, adding, “We must carry them forward in his name.”
Other political leaders also paid tribute. EFF leaders said, “He never placed personal ambition above the duties of his office,” while BOSA’s Mmusi Maimane recalled, “He was always open to suggestions from other people and being able to say, ‘how do we accommodate everybody?’” Rise Mzansi’s Makashule Gana described him as a “political operator” who “knew when to leave the stage,” referencing Mabuza’s graceful exit from public office in 2023. Cosatu’s Matthew Parks added, “He will be remembered as a humble person who didn’t always seek the limelight for himself but was happy to give support to others to lead.”
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu, who worked with Mabuza in the ANC, said, “I personally worked with him when we served as Chairperson and Secretary respectively. As a former educator myself, he shaped my perspective on how commitment can propel you from the classroom to responsibilities of a bigger scale.” Ndlovu praised Mabuza’s focus on service delivery, such as building schools and roads in Mpumalanga.
A Journey from Activism to Leadership
Born on 25 August 1960 in Phola, Mpumalanga, Mabuza began his career as a teacher and principal, influenced by the Black Consciousness Movement in his youth. His activism led him to the ANC, where he rose through the ranks, serving as MEC for Education and later Housing in Mpumalanga. From 2009 to 2018, he was Premier of Mpumalanga, earning the nickname “The Cat” for his political resilience and ability to navigate challenges.
Mabuza’s influence peaked in 2017 when he delivered Mpumalanga’s support to Cyril Ramaphosa at the ANC’s 54th National Conference, securing Ramaphosa’s presidency. Elected ANC Deputy President in December 2017, he became South Africa’s Deputy President in February 2018, serving until 2023. As Deputy President, he chaired key Cabinet Committees like Governance, State Capacity and Institutional Development (GSCID) and Justice, Crime-Prevention and Security (JCPS). He also led the South African National Aids Council and initiatives to reduce poverty through Public Employment Programmes.
Internationally, Mabuza strengthened South Africa’s ties with other nations, often representing the country in continental and global forums. His work reflected a commitment to justice, peace, and development, leaving a mark on South Africa’s foreign policy.
Funeral Preparations Underway
The Mabuza family, ANC, and government are coordinating funeral arrangements. Desmond Moela confirmed, “The family。第二has agreed that the funeral will take place this coming Saturday on the 12th of July 2025.” Memorial services will be held across Mpumalanga’s three regions—Nkangala, Gert Sibande, and Ehlanzeni—starting Thursday, 10 July 2025, to allow the public to pay respects. The ANC has planned a large memorial service to accommodate all who wish to honour Mabuza.
The family is considering burying Mabuza at their farm in Barberton, Mpumalanga, fulfilling his wish to rest in his hometown. Moela noted ongoing discussions with the government and ANC, saying, “We are looking at all possible options and of course not wishing away the wish of the late Deputy President and that of the family.” The Director-General in the Presidency, Dr. Pindi Labalini, visited the family to finalize details, with friends from Russia—where Mabuza received treatment—expected to attend.
The remains were brought to Mpumalanga on Friday, 4 July 2025, after rituals in Bryanston, Johannesburg, where he passed away. A convoy, supported by Gauteng and Mpumalanga traffic officers, transported the body to Nelspruit, where it was placed in a mortuary before being moved to Barberton.
Controversy Over Announcement
A brief controversy arose when ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula announced Mabuza’s death on social media before Ramaphosa’s official statement. The ANC defended Mbalula, stating, “The Secretary General’s earlier social media post was a humane and compassionate reflection during a moment of collective grief.” The party clarified that Ramaphosa waited for the family’s approval, as Mabuza’s wife and children were travelling from Barberton to Johannesburg when he passed.
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 112 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Local Municipality’s R2 Billion Budget Rejected as Unfunded by Free
State Treasury
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Central-News-Issue-112.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube