Former Deputy President David Mabuza remembered for dedication to public service
Former deputy president David Mabuza died on Thursday at the age of 64.
Image: GCIS
The death of former Deputy President David Dabede Mabuza has drawn heartfelt tributes from the highest ranks of South Africa's Parliament.
Leading the expression of condolences, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, along with the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, recognised Mabuza's significant contributions to the nation and his unwavering commitment to public service.
In a statement issued by Parliament's spokesperson Moloto Mothapo, he said Mabuza played a critical role in fostering better coordination between Parliament and the Executive.
"He remained committed to parliamentary accountability, consistently availing himself to answer questions in the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, and engaging in oversight processes with diligence and respect," said Mothapo.
Mabuza, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land and Agriculture, he oversaw the implementation of key recommendations made by the Presidential Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture, appointed in 2018.
Mothapo said Mabuza's leadership contributed to the development of crucial policy instruments such as the Land Court Act—which provided for the appointment of full-time judges to adjudicate land-related matters—as well as the Land Beneficiary and Allocation Policy and the Land Donation Policy.
"Mr Mabuza also held several key public offices throughout his career. As a Member of the Executive Council in Mpumalanga, he was entrusted with portfolios including Education, Housing, Transport, and Agriculture. He also served as a Member of Parliament, further exemplifying his lifelong dedication to public service.
The Presiding Officers stated: "We pay homage to former Deputy President Mabuza, an exemplary leader and patriot who dedicated his life to the service of our people. His passing is a profound loss not only to his family and comrades, but to the nation as a whole.
"Parliament honours his legacy of humility, service, and commitment to the ideals of our constitutional democracy. May his life’s work continue to inspire future generations. Parliament extends its deepest sympathies to his family, friends, the African National Congress, and all those whose lives he touched," they said.
Inkatha Freedom Party leader Velenkosini Hlabisa described Mabuza as a leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of others.
"From humble beginnings, he rose to occupy one of the highest offices in the land, carrying with him the hopes of many and a profound sense of duty to his country. He served with quiet resolve and a deep commitment to the people of South Africa.
"In this time of sorrow, we honour his contribution to our democratic journey and to the cause of justice, dignity, and development for all South Africans. His legacy will live on in the lives he impacted and in the work he undertook with humility and purpose," he said.
Hlabisa said the country has lost a leader who was both pragmatic and driven by purpose.
"While we may have differed politically, the IFP acknowledges and honours the contribution of former Deputy President Mabuza to our country’s democratic cause," said Hlabisa.
Herman Mashaba, President of ActionSA remembered Mabuza as a significant figure in South African political life, having served the country in various senior roles, including as Premier of Mpumalanga.
"His contributions and influence spanned decades and will leave a lasting mark on our country’s democratic journey. While varying reflections on his legacy will no doubt unfold in the days to come, ActionSA simply wishes to extend compassion to his family as they begin this difficult mourning journey. We pray for their strength, peace and comfort during this time of loss, said Mashaba.
Leader of Good Party and Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, served alongside Mabuza during the 6th administration when he was deputy president.
"He was an exemplary chair of intergovernmental forums, his meetings were marked by punctuality, clarity of purpose, and firm outcomes. I personally admired his respect for time and process, and it is a discipline we can all learn from in public service," said de Lille.