South Africa’s former deputy president, David Mabuza, a key political figure who played a pivotal role in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s rise to power, has died at the age of 64, the presidency announced on Thursday.
Mabuza, who served as deputy president from 2018 to 2023, was instrumental in securing Ramaphosa’s presidential victory. The presidency did not immediately disclose the cause of death, but public broadcaster SABC reported that Mabuza had been unwell and largely out of the public eye in recent months.
In a statement, President Ramaphosa’s office paid tribute to Mabuza, saying: “The former deputy president deserves our appreciation for his deep commitment to the liberation struggle and the nation’s development as an inclusive, prosperous, democratic state.” 
Mabuza, a seasoned ANC stalwart, was known for his behind-the-scenes influence. As premier of Mpumalanga province before becoming deputy president, he built a strong political network that proved crucial in rallying support for Ramaphosa during the party’s 2017 leadership battle against former AU chair Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. His strategic maneuvering helped unify factions within the ANC at a time of deep divisions.
After stepping down as deputy president in 2023, Mabuza largely retreated from public life. His declining health had been a subject of speculation, but details about his illness were never officially confirmed.
President Ramaphosa has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in honor of Mabuza, with further memorial arrangements expected to be announced soon.
