By: Rorisang Rampheteng
It is all systems go for the funeral of the late former South African deputy President David Dabede Mabuza, affectionately known as ‘DD’, who died at the age of 64 last week in a Sandton Hospital after a prolonged illness.
The funeral is scheduled to take place tomorrow in his hometown, Phola Trust with President Cyril Ramaphosa granting the former deputy president a dignified Category 2 state funeral.
According to the state official and provincial official funeral policy manual of the Presidency, a state funeral category 2 is reserved for the deputy president, an acting president and former deputy presidents. The manual further states that a state funeral Category 2 is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honours.
Ramaphosa also declared a national mourning period in remembrance of Mabuza between 7 and 12 July.
“During this period, the national flag must be flown at half-mast at all flag stations around the country,” said the president.
ANC cadres and supporters from across the country are now gathering in Mpumalanga to pay their last respects to one of their own, in order to accompany him to his final resting place tomorrow. Some of the people who expected to attend the funeral are amongst others include the head of state, government officials, ANC members, and other political leaders.
Tributes pouring in
The ANC conveyed its condolences to Mabuza’s family, friends and comrades through a press statement issued by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula last week.
“On behalf of the ANC, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Mabuza family, friends, comrades, and the people of South Africa. We have lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a leader who served with humanity and conviction,” the statement read.
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu also paid tribute to Mabuza saying that he would like to celebrate his profound impact on the province.
He encouraged the people of Mpumalanga to honour Mabuza's legacy by acknowledging his selfless service to the country and the province and the transformative initiatives that have left a lasting imprint on the lives of the people of Mpumalanga.Former Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela also said she will forever remember the unwavering support she received from Mabuza. “His unwavering support during my tenure as Premier of the Free State, particularly during the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, will remain etched in my memory. He stood with us, offered guidance, and embodied the spirit of “Ubuntu” when it mattered most.
Mabuza served as Premier of Mpumalanga from 2009 and 2018, and was Deputy President of South Africa between 2018 and 2024.
