South Africa is mourning the passing of former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza, who died at the age of 64. Mabuza passed away in a Sandton hospital, marking the end of a long political journey that saw him serve in various leadership roles within the African National Congress (ANC) and the national government.
Born on 25 August 1960 in Phola Trust, Mpumalanga, Mabuza’s early years were rooted in education. He earned a national teacher’s certificate from Mgwenya College of Education in 1985 and later completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of South Africa in 1989. Before entering politics, Mabuza worked as a mathematics teacher and eventually became a school principal—roles that set the stage for his interest in leadership and public service.
Mabuza’s political career began in earnest in the early 1990s during South Africa’s democratic transition. In 1994, he was appointed the Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Education in Mpumalanga, a position he held until 1998. At the same time, he also served as the regional chairperson of the ANC, demonstrating his growing influence within the party’s provincial structures.
His rise in the ANC continued over the next decade. From 1998 to 2006, Mabuza was a member of the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) of the ANC in Mpumalanga. He also served as MEC for Housing between 1999 and 2001 and was elected to the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, holding various roles between 1999 and 2007.
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One of the most defining chapters of his career came in 2009 when he was appointed Premier of Mpumalanga, a position he held for nearly a decade. During this period, he was known for his strategic political maneuvering and close alignment with then-President Jacob Zuma. His influence grew, and in December 2017, Mabuza was elected deputy president of the ANC, playing a crucial role in the internal negotiations that led to Cyril Ramaphosa becoming party president.
In 2018, following the resignation of Jacob Zuma, Cyril Ramaphosa assumed the presidency, and Mabuza was appointed the Deputy President of South Africa. He also became a member of Parliament in the same year. His term as deputy president was marked by both political turbulence and controversy, with critics often questioning his behind-the-scenes power and influence.
Mabuza eventually stepped down from his position in 2023, resigning as a Member of Parliament and retreating from the national spotlight.
Known to many as “DD,” Mabuza leaves behind a complex political legacy—praised for his role in stabilizing ANC factions and criticized for alleged ties to political patronage networks. Despite the mixed views, his death has sparked an outpouring of condolences across the political spectrum, reflecting his deep roots in South Africa’s post-apartheid governance.
He is survived by his family, and further details about memorial services are expected to be announced in due course.