Deputy President Paul Mashatile visited the family of his predecessor, David Mabuza, today to offer condolences following Mabuza’s death on Thursday after a short illness. The former deputy president’s home in a quiet suburban neighbourhood was filled with family and friends paying their respects.

Mabuza’s family described him as a dedicated struggle veteran who devoted his life to improving the socio-economic conditions of South Africans. Mashatile echoed this sentiment, reflecting on Mabuza’s legacy and his role in ensuring a smooth transition when Mashatile assumed the deputy presidency.

“We will continue to build on what he started,” Mashatile said, referencing Mabuza’s work, including projects in Mpumalanga. “There was a lot of work he did when he was the deputy president. It’s important that in whatever we do, there must be a commitment to serve the people. That’s how we should honour him.”

Mashatile also highlighted their close bond, noting that they spent Mabuza’s final years discussing ways to revitalise the African National Congress (ANC).