David Dabede "DD" Mabuza, a dedicated anti-apartheid activist-turned-statesman, passed away on 03 July 2025 at the age of 64, after a short illness at a hospital in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Born in Phola, Mpumalanga, Mabuza began his career as a mathematics teacher before rising through the ranks of teachers’ unions, including leadership of SADTU and local government. He served in Mpumalanga’s Executive Council in areas such as Education and Transport, before becoming Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 to 2018.

Elected ANC Deputy President in December 2017, Mabuza played a pivotal role in securing Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership of the governing party. When Ramaphosa became president in February 2018, Mabuza was appointed Deputy President of South Africa, a position he held until his resignation in early 2023.

As Deputy President, he also served as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, chaired influential cabinet committees and advocated for social upliftment programmes, particularly in education, land reform and public employment initiatives. He was deeply involved in the national AIDS response as SANAC Chair and passionately worked on rural development, GBV prevention, and improving health access.

Mabuza earned the affectionate nickname “The Cat” for his measured, behind the scenes political influence. Despite occasional criticism for low public visibility during ill health, his colleagues described him as humble, disciplined and deeply committed to public service.

Tributes have flowed in from President Ramaphosa, the ANC, Parliament, political parties across the spectrum and international bodies such as the UN, all lauding his integrity, unity and unwavering dedication to South Africa’s transformation.

A State Funeral (Category 2) has been declared for 12 July 2025 in Mpumalanga, and a national period of mourning, from 07 to 12 July, has been observed, with flags flown at half-mast.

Mabuza is survived by his wife, Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, their children, and the nation he served. He will be remembered as a teacher, activist, politician, and compassionate leader whose disciplined, steady presence shaped South Africa’s democratic journey.