JOHANNESBURG, July 3 – South Africa is mourning the death of its former Deputy President, David Mabuza, who passed away at the age of 64. His death was confirmed by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) on Thursday. He reportedly died in a Johannesburg hospital, although no specific cause of death has been disclosed at this time. His passing brings an end to the life of a politician whose career was marked by both political prominence and persistent controversy.
David Mabuza served as the Deputy President of South Africa from 2018 to 2023, under President Cyril Ramaphosa. His ascent to the country’s second-highest political office came at a pivotal moment in the history of the ruling African National Congress (ANC). During the party’s fiercely contested 2017 elective conference, Mabuza played a crucial role in helping Ramaphosa clinch a narrow victory to become ANC president. ThatDeputy Presidentvictory set the stage for Ramaphosa to succeed Jacob Zuma, who stepped down in 2018 amid mounting allegations of corruption and state capture.
David Mabuza’s decision to align with Ramaphosa was considered a strategic masterstroke at the time, as it delivered crucial votes from his power base in Mpumalanga Province, where he had served as Premier for nearly a decade. The move earned him the nickname “The Cat,” in reference to his political survival skills and ability to navigate ANC factional battles.
Yet, even as he rose through the ranks, Mabuza’s career was frequently clouded by controversy. A former schoolteacher turned politician, he had developed a reputation as a skilled political operator during his time as Premier of Mpumalanga. However, he also faced repeated allegations of corruption and involvement in political violence—claims he consistently denied.
David Mabuza, Former South African Deputy President, Dies at 64
Among the most persistent accusations were those surrounding irregular procurement contracts, including tenders linked to the construction of a stadium for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. There were also widespread rumours alleging his involvement or complicity in politically motivated killings in Mpumalanga, a province long known for intra-party violence. While no criminal charges were ever brought against him, the allegations followed Mabuza throughout his national career and cast a long shadow over his tenure.
Despite the cloud of suspicion, David Mabuza proved to be an influential figure behind the scenes, often described as a “kingmaker” within ANC structures. His support base, particularly in the rural provinces, and his ability to broker political deals made him a central figure in the ANC’s often turbulent internal politics. Supporters praised him as a loyal party cadre who helped maintain unity during a time of deep factionalism. Critics, however, viewed him as emblematic of the opaque networks of patronage that have plagued South Africa’s political landscape in the post-apartheid era.
Following his departure from office in 2023, David Mabuza largely retreated from public life. He made only a handful of public appearances and was rarely seen at major political events. According to the SABC, he had been in poor health for some time, though the details of his illness remain undisclosed.
News of Mabuza’s death has prompted an outpouring of mixed reactions across the country. Some have expressed sadness over the loss of a man who, despite his flaws, was a significant figure in shaping modern South African politics. Others have taken the moment to reflect on the darker aspects of his legacy, including unresolved allegations and unanswered questions about his conduct while in office.
In the coming days, the South African government is expected to release official statements and tributes, with funeral arrangements likely to follow soon after. President Ramaphosa, who owes part of his political rise to Mabuza’s support, is expected to lead national mourning efforts.
David Mabuza leaves behind a complicated legacy—a man who, through political savvy and calculated alliances, rose to the upper echelons of power, yet remained a divisive figure. For supporters, he was a stabilising force during a turbulent political era. For detractors, he embodied the lingering problems of factionalism, impunity, and lack of accountability within the ANC.
As South Africa reflects on his life and death, David Mabuza’s story stands as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of political leadership in a young democracy still grappling with the promises of its liberation movement.
