David Dabede “DD” Mabuza, former Deputy President of South Africa and a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC), passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 64.
The ANC confirmed his death, noting that he died in a Sandton hospital following a period of ill health, though the exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
Political Career and Legacy
Born on August 25, 1960, in Phola Trust, Mpumalanga, Mabuza rose from a mathematics teacher and school principal to a prominent political leader.
His early activism in the Black Consciousness movement and leadership in the South African Democratic Teachers Union (1988–1991) shaped his political journey.
After apartheid ended in 1994, he joined the Mpumalanga provincial legislature, serving as Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education (1994–1998) and later as Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018.
Mabuza’s influence peaked when he played a pivotal role in Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2017 ANC presidency win, securing a narrow victory against Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and helping Ramaphosa succeed Jacob Zuma as South Africa’s president in 2018.
As Deputy President of South Africa (2018–2023) and the ANC (2017–2022), Mabuza was a strategic figure, known for expanding ANC membership in Mpumalanga.
He resigned in 2023, citing health issues, but briefly returned to campaign for the ANC in 2024.
Controversies and Challenges
Mabuza’s career however, was not without controversy.
Allegations of corruption, including irregular tenders for the 2010 World Cup Mbombela Stadium and links to political killings in Mpumalanga, such as the 2009 assassination of Jimmy Mohlala, dogged his tenure.
Mabuza denied these claims, but they persisted, notably from activist James Nkambule.
In 2015, Mabuza survived a reported poisoning incident, earning the nickname “The Cat” for his resilience.
He sought treatment in Russia in 2021, raising concerns among opposition parties.
Tributes and Impact
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula mourned Mabuza as a “committed cadre” who embodied “unity, discipline, and transformation” from his anti-apartheid activism to his national leadership.
President Cyril Ramaphosa praised his “deep commitment to the liberation struggle” and contributions to South Africa’s development as a democratic state.
Bongani Majola, a former colleague, highlighted Mabuza’s philanthropy, noting his personal funding of homes for underprivileged communities.Ald.
Herman Mashaba called for sensitivity toward Mabuza’s family and the ANC, while ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri lauded his legacy in education and youth development.
However, sentiments on social media were mixed, with some, criticizing Mabuza’s alleged corruption, reflecting his polarizing reputation.
Personal Life and Funeral Arrangements
Mabuza was married to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi and had a child with his former partner, Ruthi Funi Silinda.
He will be honored with a Category 2 State Funeral, including military ceremonial honors, as announced by the government.
Looking Ahead
Mabuza’s death marks the loss of a significant figure in South African politics, whose strategic influence shaped the ANC’s trajectory.
As the nation reflects on his legacy, debates over his contributions and controversies continue to resonate, underscoring his complex role in the country’s history.
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