MBOMBELA, SOUTH AFRICA – The late David “DD” Mabuza, former Deputy President of South Africa and former Premier of Mpumalanga, was laid to rest in a solemn state funeral held in his home province on Saturday, drawing political leaders, diplomats, traditional authorities and mourners from across the continent.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led tributes at the provincial service attended by former President Thabo Mbeki, Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, members of the ANC’s top brass, opposition leaders, and representatives from neighbouring countries. Mourners gathered to reflect on the life and political journey of a man described as a “unifier” and “man of the people.”
Ramaphosa described Mabuza as a quiet but firm strategist whose influence shaped government decisions during critical times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Recalling their conversations in cabinet, he shared how Mabuza had privately advised for a state of emergency at the pandemic’s height, though the government ultimately settled for a state of disaster.
Known for his humility despite holding senior roles in government and the ANC, Mabuza is credited with transforming lives in rural Mpumalanga, where he built homes for the poor, expanded access to boarding schools, and pushed for development initiatives without fanfare.
Crowds of residents from Barberton, his hometown, streamed to his residence throughout the week, joined by traditional leaders and ANC stalwarts who came to pay their respects. Many remembered him as a man who gave selflessly and never distanced himself from ordinary people.
“DD was not a man of pomp and ceremony,” said Ramaphosa. “He was most content among the people. His leadership was about listening and acting quickly. Not promises—action.”
Revered for his ability to navigate complex political landscapes, Mabuza was often referred to as “The Cat” for his political resilience. His early activism in the Black Consciousness Movement and trade unionism laid the foundation for a career rooted in education, rural upliftment and unity.
He maintained close ties with traditional leaders and, according to Ramaphosa, resisted the trappings of high office that often detach leaders from their communities. Even after rising to the second highest office in the land, he continued to be described as “Mr Unity,” working to heal rifts within the ANC and across the political spectrum.
“He held the centre night and day,” Ramaphosa said, visibly emotional. “You bore the weight of the province and the land with dignity and fortitude. And now, rest, brave son of the African soil.”
David Dabede Mabuza died at the age of 63.
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