David Mabuza Death Confirmed by ANC in Public Announcement
South Africa Mourns Former Deputy President David Mabuza
David Mabuza death confirmed by ANC on Wednesday in a solemn message shared by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula via social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The unexpected news has shaken the political landscape of South Africa, leaving citizens and political allies in deep mourning.
David Mabuza, who served as the Deputy President of South Africa from 2018 to 2021 under President Cyril Ramaphosa, was a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC). His political career spanned decades, most notably as Premier of Mpumalanga and later as one of the most strategic and influential members of the ruling party.
Fikile Mbalula Breaks the News Online
In a brief but emotional post, Fikile Mbalula confirmed the death of David Mabuza, stating:
“Rest in peace former Deputy President of South Africa, David Mabuza. You served your country. We are shattered by your passing.”
The message quickly went viral, with condolences pouring in from South African citizens, political parties, and international leaders. The ANC also issued a formal statement acknowledging Mabuza’s contributions to South Africa’s democracy, transformation, and governance.
A Legacy Etched in South African Politics
David Mabuza’s political journey began during the anti-apartheid movement. A teacher by profession, he quickly became involved in political organizing through youth and education networks aligned with the ANC. He later rose through the ranks of the party, serving as MEC and eventually Premier of Mpumalanga Province.
As Deputy President, David Mabuza was seen as both a power broker and a unifier within the ANC. He played a critical role in the balance of power during the transition from former President Jacob Zuma to President Cyril Ramaphosa, helping stabilize the party during a period of deep internal divisions.
His tenure was not without controversy, but he was often credited for bringing calm to political storms behind closed doors and fostering dialogue across factional lines.
National and International Reaction
Political leaders across party lines have expressed condolences. President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a heartfelt message describing Mabuza as “a dedicated servant of the people” and “a man of great discipline and loyalty to the ideals of the ANC.”
International leaders from SADC (Southern African Development Community) and beyond also shared messages of sympathy. The Embassy of Russia in Pretoria highlighted Mabuza’s efforts in maintaining strong diplomatic relations and peaceful engagement.
Opposition party leaders, including those from the DA and EFF, acknowledged his role in shaping the country and expressed their sympathies to the Mabuza family.
South Africa Reflects on a Complex but Influential Figure
The David Mabuza death confirmed by ANC comes at a time when South Africa is facing numerous socio-economic challenges. Citizens have taken to social media not only to mourn his death but to reflect on his influence, both positive and controversial.
Many have noted that Mabuza’s behind-the-scenes negotiations often steered the ANC away from deep divisions and governance crises. Others have brought up lingering questions from his time in Mpumalanga, a province sometimes associated with political instability and alleged corruption during his tenure.
Nonetheless, the general consensus is that David Mabuza’s death marks the end of an era—one defined by political transformation, leadership transition, and strategic influence within the ANC.
Funeral Arrangements and Public Memorial
The ANC has stated that it is working closely with Mabuza’s family to organize funeral arrangements. A public memorial service is expected to be held in Johannesburg, with possible official recognition as a special provincial funeral or state funeral.
More details on the memorial proceedings will be announced in the coming days. The ANC has also opened condolence books at all provincial offices and invited the public to share tributes online using the hashtag #RIPDavidMabuza.
Fikile Mbalula: “We Have Lost a Giant”
Speaking in a follow-up press briefing, Fikile Mbalula became visibly emotional as he addressed the media:
“Comrade David Mabuza was more than a leader; he was a brother, a strategist, a quiet warrior who understood the art of politics. South Africa has lost a giant.”
Mbalula also urged members of the ANC and the public to honor Mabuza’s legacy by promoting unity and service in all spheres of life.
A Call for National Mourning
Parliament is expected to convene a special session to pay tribute to David Mabuza. Several ANC branches across the country have held candlelight vigils. Churches and civil society organizations have also joined in calls for national reflection.
Social media remains flooded with tributes, including heartfelt posts from students, farmers, local government officials, and ordinary South Africans who credit Mabuza for development programs, especially in rural areas.
Remembering “The Cat” — Mabuza’s Nickname and Reputation
Nicknamed “The Cat” for his political resilience and ability to survive political attacks, David Mabuza was known for his tactical patience and strategic alliances. He earned respect not through loud declarations but through quiet execution.
This reserved style earned him both admiration and suspicion. But whether as a teacher, premier, or deputy president, David Mabuza remained a consistent force in South African politics.
Conclusion: A Nation Bids Farewell
With the David Mabuza death confirmed by ANC, South Africa pauses to reflect on a figure who, for better or worse, shaped the country’s modern political trajectory. His story, full of nuance and contradiction, remains essential to understanding the post-apartheid journey of South Africa’s democracy.
As the country prepares to say its final farewell, one thing is clear—David Mabuza leaves behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and complexity that will be remembered for generations to come.
Here are five reputable South African mainstream media sources that have reported on the death of former Deputy President David Mabuza:
- News24 – “UPDATE | Former deputy president David Mabuza dies aged 64” – Reports that ANC’s Fikile Mbalula confirmed the passing and highlights Mabuza’s service to the nation (news24.com).
🔗 https://www.news24.com/politics/former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-dies-at-64-20250703-0888 - TimesLIVE – “Former deputy president David Mabuza dies” – Describes the circumstances of his death in Sandton and notes official statements are pending (news24.com, timeslive.co.za).
🔗 https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2025-07-03-breaking-former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-dies/ - IOL – “Former Deputy President David Mabuza has died” – Confirms his passing in hospital and includes the ANC’s heartfelt response (timeslive.co.za, iol.co.za).
🔗 https://iol.co.za/news/politics/2025-07-03-former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-dies/ - SABC News – “Former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza passes on aged 64” – Official confirmation via Fikile Mbalula’s X announcement with tribute details (sabcnews.com).
🔗 https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/former-deputy-president-david-dabede-mabuza-passes-on-aged-64/ - BusinessTech – “Former Deputy President David Mabuza has died” – Covers his career trajectory and ANC secretary-general’s statement (sabcnews.com, businesstech.co.za).
🔗 https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/830442/former-deputy-president-david-mabuza-has-died-at-64/
