South Africa mourns “The Cat with Nine Lives” as President Cyril Ramaphosa salutes David Mabuza’s lifelong service to liberation, Mpumalanga, and the nation at large.
South Africa awoke on 4 July 2025 to the sombre news that former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza had died in a Sandton hospital after a protracted illness, aged 64. President Cyril Ramaphosa swiftly issued a statement lauding his onetime deputy as “a leader grounded in activism” whose commitment to the liberation struggle and national development deserves our appreciation.”
A Political Life Spanning Four Decades
- Origins & Early Activism: Born 25 August 1960 in Phola, Mpumalanga, Mabuza began as a maths teacher before chairing the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union in the late 1980s.
- Provincial Powerhouse: He served as Mpumalanga’s MEC for Education (1994-1998) and later Premier (2009-2018), earning the moniker “The Cat” for repeatedly surviving political storms.
- National Stage: Elected ANC Deputy President in 2017, he became South Africa’s eighth Deputy President in 2018, shepherding government business in Parliament and chairing the SA National AIDS Council until his resignation in 2023.
Ramaphosa’s Heartfelt Tribute
In his message of condolence, Ramaphosa highlighted Mabuza’s ability to “mobilise communities and colleagues alike,” praising his leadership of anti-poverty programmes and diplomatic work on global platforms. Funeral arrangements and national honours will be announced “in due course,” the President added.
Reactions Across the Political Spectrum
- Deputy President Paul Mashatile called Mabuza “a pillar during the transition to the sixth administration.”
- Opposition leaders from the DA and EFF echoed respect for “a formidable organiser,” even as they noted ideological differences.
- Social media tributes trended under #RIPDDMabuza, with many remembering his famous phrase: “If we work together, we all rise.”
Legacy: The Nine Lives of “DD”
Mabuza’s career was a study in survival—poisoning scares, factional battles, and constant rumours never quite ended his ascent. Yet supporters point to expanded schooling infrastructure in Mpumalanga and decisive public employment drives as tangible legacies. Historians will likely debate the contradictions of a populist tactician who also championed pragmatic governance.
What Happens Next?
- State Funeral Status: The Presidency is consulting Mabuza’s family on whether he will receive an official category-one funeral.
- Memorial Services: An official memorial in Mbombela Stadium is under consideration, while the ANC Youth League plans a candlelight vigil outside Luthuli House.
- Parliamentary Tribute Sitting: National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has indicated a joint sitting could be convened within the week.
David Mabuza’s death closes a dramatic chapter in South Africa’s democratic story. As Ramaphosa observed, his journey from rural teacher to the Union Buildings “reminds us that dedication to service can chart extraordinary paths.” The coming days of mourning will undoubtedly revive debate about his complex legacy—but for now, a nation pauses to say hamba kahle, Cat.
Also read: NEHAWU North West Condemns Disgraced CFO Appointment, Demands Immediate Reversal
