Family Dispute Erupts Over Late David Mabuza’s R44.7 Million Pension Payout in Mpumalanga High Court
Family Dispute Erupts Over Late David Mabuza’s R44.7 Million Pension Payout in Mpumalanga High Court, as his daughter Tamara Silinda files an urgent application to block the release of funds to his widow Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, citing a customary marriage claim and personal financial needs.
This high-stakes legal battle has thrust the family of former Deputy President David “DD” Mabuza into the spotlight, barely two months after his passing on 3 July 2025.
The case, lodged in the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court in Mbombela under number 125192/2025, pits Mabuza’s daughter from his first marriage against his second wife and other family members. At the heart of the dispute is a substantial R44.7 million pension payout managed by Alexander Forbes Financial Services, which Tamara seeks to freeze until her claims are resolved. The matter is set for an urgent hearing on Tuesday, 23 September 2025, highlighting tensions over inheritance, marital status, and family support in the wake of Mabuza’s death.
The Urgent Application: Key Claims and Parties Involved
The applicants in the case are Emunah Silinda, formerly known as Ruth Funi Silinda, and her daughter Tamara Silinda. Emunah, Mabuza’s ex-wife from his first marriage, asserts that she was wed to the late politician under customary law, a union that she argues entitles her to a share of his estate. Tamara, in her court papers, echoes this claim and adds that she relies on the funds for essential expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly allowance—support that her father provided while alive. She argues that releasing the full pension to Nonhlanhla would prejudice her and her mother’s rights, potentially leaving them without recourse.
The respondents form a long list, reflecting the complexity of the estate. Leading the pack is Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, Mabuza’s second wife, whom he married in 2003 after divorcing Emunah. Other key parties include Alexander Forbes Financial Services, the Master of the High Court, the Minister of Home Affairs, the President of the Republic of South Africa, and the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA), which administers pensions for public servants. Family members named as respondents are Mxolisi David Junior Mabuza, Lindeni Innocentia Mabuza, Mandisa Vannesa Mabuza, Nkosanathi Mabuza, Angela Mabuza, and Fezile Mabuza—likely Mabuza’s children and close relatives. The inclusion of “any other interested party” as the thirteenth respondent opens the door for additional claims.
Legal experts suggest the case hinges on proving the validity of the customary marriage and its implications under South African law, which recognises such unions alongside civil marriages. Customary marriages must be registered with Home Affairs to be fully recognised, but unregistered ones can still be validated in court if evidence of lobola, family consent, and cohabitation exists. Tamara’s plea for maintenance adds another layer, as South African courts often prioritise the needs of dependent children, even adults pursuing education.
David Mabuza’s Life and Legacy: From Humble Beginnings to Political Powerhouse
To understand the dispute, one must delve into Mabuza’s storied life. Born on 25 August 1960 in Phola, Mpumalanga, David Dabede Mabuza rose from a teacher’s role to become one of South Africa’s most influential politicians. He earned a diploma in education from Mgwenya College and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Africa, starting his career in classrooms before diving into politics during the anti-apartheid struggle. Mabuza joined the African National Congress (ANC) underground in the 1980s, becoming a key figure in Mpumalanga’s provincial politics.
His ascent was meteoric: He served as MEC for Education, Housing, and other portfolios before becoming Premier of Mpumalanga in 2009, a position he held until 2018. Known as “The Cat” for his political survival skills, Mabuza navigated factional battles within the ANC, playing a pivotal role in Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2017 presidential bid by delivering Mpumalanga’s votes. This loyalty earned him the Deputy President role in 2018, which he held until his retirement in 2023, though in this narrative extended to his death. Mabuza’s tenure was marked by controversies, including allegations of corruption and political assassinations in Mpumalanga, though he denied involvement.
Mabuza’s personal life was equally complex. His first marriage to Ruth Funi Silinda (now Emunah) produced children, including Tamara. Ruth, an entrepreneur in construction, faced scrutiny over tenders during Mabuza’s premiership, with accusations of nepotism that he dismissed. After their divorce, Mabuza married Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi in 2003, a union that lasted until his death. Nonhlanhla, a low-profile figure, supported him through health scares, including a 2014 poisoning attempt that sidelined him for months. Known children include Mxolisi and Angela from his marriages, with relatives like brother Mike and sister Zandile also in the public eye.
Mabuza’s net worth was estimated at around R50 million at his death, including properties, investments, and the pension in question. As a former public servant, his pension falls under the GPAA, which provides for widows and dependents but requires clear beneficiary designations.
Mabuza’s Death and Immediate Aftermath
Mabuza passed away on 3 July 2025, at age 64, after a short illness in Sandton. President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a period of mourning, praising Mabuza as a “dedicated servant” who advanced education and infrastructure in Mpumalanga. His state funeral on 12 July 2025 in Mpumalanga drew thousands, including ANC leaders, with eulogies highlighting his role in post-apartheid reconciliation. However, whispers of unresolved family tensions surfaced even then, foreshadowing this dispute.
Analysts note that Mabuza’s death, coming amid his quiet retirement, left loose ends in his estate. He had faced health issues, including hospitalisations in Russia, but his passing was unexpected. The pension, accrued from decades in public office, is a significant asset, and the case could set precedents for customary law in estates.
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