Former Deputy President David Mabuza has died

The former Deputy President of South Africa David Dabede Mabuza has died at the age of 64. The news was confirmed by African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula in an official statement on Wednesday.

“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we learn of the passing of former Deputy President of the Republic and stalwart of our movement, Comrade David Dabede Mabuza,” Mbalula said. “We have lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a leader who served with humility and conviction.”

Mabuza, who earned the nickname “The Cat” for his survival skills in the volatile world of ANC politics, was known for his quiet power, strategic maneuvering, and ability to outlast political rivals. His death ends a political career that spanned decades — and leaves behind a legacy marked by both public service and deep controversy.

A Career of Influence Behind the Scenes

Born in 1960 in Phola, Mpumalanga, Mabuza began his political career in the anti-apartheid movement, eventually rising through ANC ranks. He served as Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018, where he was praised for infrastructure expansion, especially road construction. His leadership helped solidify ANC dominance in the province and earned him significant influence on the national stage.

In 2017, he was elected ANC Deputy President and soon after became Deputy President of South Africa under President Cyril Ramaphosa — a position he held until 2023, when he resigned to make way for Paul Mashatile.

Mabuza was rarely in the public spotlight. He gave few interviews, rarely spoke in Parliament, and was often absent from public-facing duties. Critics accused him of avoiding accountability; supporters said he preferred to work behind the scenes and maintain internal party unity.

Persistent Allegations and Controversy

Mabuza’s political career was frequently accompanied by serious allegations — none of which ever resulted in criminal charges.

While Premier of Mpumalanga, the province experienced a string of high-profile political assassinations. Critics, including former ANC colleagues, accused Mabuza of tolerating — or even orchestrating — a climate of political intimidation and violence. He denied any involvement, and no evidence was presented in court to support the claims.

A widely reported 2009 burglary at Mabuza’s Barberton farm involved large sums of missing cash — with media estimates ranging from R1,200 to R14 million. The origins of the funds were never explained publicly, and no official findings were released.

In 2018, the New York Times published an investigative report alleging corruption in Mpumalanga’s education sector, including the misuse of funds meant for school infrastructure. The article alleged that contracts were funneled to allies through a provincial “Rapid Implementation Unit.” Mabuza rejected the accusations, and no charges followed.

In another high-profile incident, Mabuza claimed he was poisoned by political rivals. He received treatment in Russia in both 2015 and 2021, including one trip reportedly aboard a jet linked to the controversial Gupta family.

Mabuza also sued former ANC Treasurer Mathews Phosa for defamation after Phosa accused him of having worked as an apartheid-era informant. The case was dismissed in 2017.

A Mixed Public Reaction

Mabuza’s death has drawn mixed reactions across South Africa. Within the ANC, tributes poured in from senior leaders recognizing his contributions to the liberation struggle and his leadership in difficult political times. President Cyril Ramaphosa had not yet issued a public statement at the time of publication.

On social media, the response was divided. While some praised him as a “loyal comrade” and “unifier,” others highlighted the unresolved allegations and expressed frustration that key questions may now never be answered.

Political analysts described Mabuza as a “master tactician” who quietly shaped the ANC’s internal power dynamics for over a decade — yet remained one of the least understood figures in government.

David Mabuza is survived by his wife and children. Funeral details are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Though his influence on South African politics is undeniable, the true nature and impact of his leadership remain the subject of debate. In death, as in life, Mabuza leaves behind a legacy as complex and elusive as the man himself.