President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that a category 2 state funeral will be held for the late former deputy president Dabede David Mabuza.

Mpumalanga News reports Mabuza (64) died in a Gauteng hospital on Thursday, after falling ill.

While the venue had not been announced at the time of publication, the funeral is scheduled to take place in Mpumalanga on Saturday, with a memorial service on Thursday.

According to the State and Provincial Official Funeral Policy Manual of The Presidency, a state funeral category 2 is reserved for a deputy president of the republic, an acting president, and a former deputy president.

While preparations unfold, Ramaphosa has declared that a period of national mourning will be observed from today until Saturday evening.

“During this period, the national flag must be flown at half-mast at all flag stations around the country,” a statement from The Presidency read.

The statement added that a category 2 state funeral is conducted with prescribed military ceremonial honour.

Ramaphosa extended his deep condolences to the Mabuza family.

He wished them strength as they, along with the nation, reflect on the life of a family member, activist, educator, intellectual and government leader who made a significant contribution to South Africa’s freedom and development.

Mabuza, a former Mpumalanga premier, held several executive portfolios in the province, including that of MEC for public works, education and agriculture. He also served as provincial chairperson of the ANC in Mpumalanga and later as national deputy president of the party under Ramaphosa.

Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu on Saturday led a delegation of the executive to the home of Mabuza in Barberton to extend their condolences to the bereaved family.

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