Mashatile urges ANC to honour Mabuza through unity
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged members of the African National Congress (ANC) to uphold the legacy of the late David Mabuza by embracing unity and recommitting themselves to serving the people of South Africa.
Mashatile was speaking outside the Mabuza family home in Bryanston, Johannesburg, where he visited on Friday morning to pay his respects.
Mabuza, who served as Deputy President of the Republic from 2018 to 2023, died on Thursday after a short illness. He was 64.
Reflecting on Mabuza’s political life and leadership style, Mashatile described him as a unifier and a man of his word.
"He would always say to me, 'I want unity,' and that’s what I want to remember him for," Mashatile said.
"A man who, once he agreed to do something, would never betray you. He would never turn his back on our people."
Mashatile called on ANC members to embody Mabuza’s values—especially in a time when the party faces internal tensions and mounting pressure to deliver services.
"We need to build on that legacy—the legacy of unity, the legacy of putting people first. That’s the kind of leadership we want to see emerging in our ranks—people who are committed, who are honest, who will live by the values of our organisation."
Known affectionately as “DD” within ANC ranks, Mabuza’s political career spanned decades, from student activism to becoming Premier of Mpumalanga and eventually Deputy President of the country.
He was respected for his behind-the-scenes diplomacy, quiet strength, and ability to unite divergent factions within the party.
Mashatile, who served alongside Mabuza and succeeded him as Deputy President, said the two shared a close bond.
"David Mabuza was like family to me. We are consoling ourselves today, but we will continue the work he started. Many projects in Mpumalanga and nationally were championed by him. We must carry them forward in his name."
Mashatile emphasised that the best way to honour Mabuza would be through action, not words.
"In whatever way we say we are honouring him, it must be through commitment to serve the people and to make South Africa better, he has done his part in this world, and we shall forever remember him."
Mabuza’s official memorial and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
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