Thousands of mourners from all corners of Mpumalanga, and across the nation, converged on the Phola Sport Ground today, July 10, to pay their final respects to the late former deputy president, David Dabede Mabuza.

The memorial service was a touching occasion, marked by heartfelt tributes to, and reflection on, Mabuza’s impactful life. This though, was surpassed by the Mabuza family’s sadness regarding the media’s premature reporting of his death.

The memorial was graced by a diverse assembly, including those who knew Mabuza from his childhood, former colleagues from before his political career, and high-ranking officials from his political home.

The national deputy president, Paul Mashatile, led the delegation from the African National Congress, accompanied by the Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu. Representatives from opposition parties and worker alliances also joined in solidarity, highlighting Mabuza’s far-reaching influence.

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His siblings, visibly emotional, spoke of Mabuza, not just as a national figure, but as a beloved brother and a father figure. “He dedicated his life to the people of Mpumalanga and when he was deployed nationally, he also put the people of this country first.

“Having come from a poor background, he believed in serving the people and aspired to ensuring the country’s development,” they expressed.

They fondly recalled that, despite his immense commitment and often being scarce due to his national duties, he always found time for his family.

However, a distressing moment came as the family openly expressed their profound distress over the media’s swift reporting of Mabuza’s passing, before they had been officially informed.

“It was heartbreaking to read about his death and having people call us to make sure if it’s true, while we knew nothing about his death. Despite all the positions that he once held, after all he was human, and he had family and people who cared for him. The entire family felt disrespected,” said the family.

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Mabuza’s children described him as a “pillar of strength” who instilled confidence in them, even before they believed in themselves. “Despite his busy schedule, he made sure that he supported us. He pushed us to work hard in achieving our dreams. He ensured that we had a safe environment and always made sure we had what we needed. He supported us even if we made mistakes,” they said.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy President Paul Mashatile lauded Mabuza as a “dedicated servant of the people, a seasoned leader of our movement, and a stalwart of the democratic struggle.”

Mashatile emphasised Mabuza’s humility and commitment to service. “Mabuza was not a medal- or attention-seeker; instead he was the backbone of many communities and he served with dignity and humanity. In the African National Congress, he set an example for a cadre of the organisation in the execution of his duties and serving the people.”

He added that Mabuza fostered unity through collaboration with all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community organisations.

Mashatile further highlighted Mabuza’s unwavering dedication to fostering unity, not only within the ANC, but across the entire country. “He was committed to fighting the demon of factionalism in the movement, and this is the commitment that he lived up to until he departed,” Mashatile affirmed.

Mashatile also lauded Mabuza’s vision for transformation, particularly his efforts to provide basic needs, quality healthcare and education, and addressing social ills in remote areas. “He ensured that he built a society in which everyone can access all the basic needs,” Mashatile said.

Upon assuming the office of deputy president, Mashatile recalled that Mabuza’s vital priority was to build an inclusive economy that would create jobs, eradicate poverty and reduce inequality – a testament to his enduring commitment to the welfare of all South Africans.

He also said this legacy will not go into the grave with him; instead, they will carry on with it because it will benefit the people of South Africa.