Former deputy president of South Africa, David Dabede Mabuza, died in a Johannesburg hospital on Thursday, 3 July 2025, at the age of 64.
David Mabuza dies: What’s the cause of death?
Mabuza had been in poor health for several years, a condition that impacted his ability to attend public engagements while serving in office.
In July 2020, he wrote to Parliament explaining his absence from scheduled appearances due to illness. In 2021, he confirmed being hospitalised in Russia, a matter that raised concern among opposition parties.
He eventually resigned from his role as deputy president in March 2023 and stepped away from public life for a period.
David Mabuza biography
David Dabede Mabuza was born on 25 August 1960 in Mpumalanga, South Africa. He trained as a teacher and started his political journey through the Black Consciousness movement while still a student. He became chairperson of the South African Democratic Teachers Union in the late 1980s.
Mabuza’s political career formally began after apartheid ended in 1994, when he joined the Mpumalanga provincial legislature. Over the years, he held several key roles, including MEC (Member of the Executive Council) positions, and later served as Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018.
His influence in the ANC grew during this time, especially as a key member of the so-called “Premier League,” a faction that played a strong role in ANC leadership politics.
In December 2017, Mabuza was elected deputy president of the ANC and was soon appointed national deputy president in February 2018 by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He served in that position until March 2023. Throughout his career, Mabuza was seen as a strategist with grassroots influence, known for expanding ANC membership in Mpumalanga.
He was married and is survived by his family.
Reactions to Mabuza’s death
Bongani Majola, who worked with Mabuza during his time in office, described him as “a selfless leader” who quietly built homes for underprivileged communities.
“He had a good heart… It’s yet to be documented how many houses he built from his pocket for the poor,” said Majola, citing regions like KwaMaphumulo, Howick, Ladysmith, and Mpumalanga.
Former advisor Thulani Mdakane recalled Mabuza as a mentor and teacher:
“He was a true leader, very kind and very patient in teaching us how to serve people.”
Mdakane emphasised Mabuza’s people-centred approach, often encouraging officials to find practical solutions for service delivery issues.
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula confirmed Mabuza’s passing on Thursday, expressing deep sorrow:
“We have lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a leader who served with humility and conviction.”
He credited Mabuza for his lifelong dedication to public service and for advancing unity and transformation in South Africa.
