They came to pay their respects following his passing on Thursday at the age of 64.  

Representatives from the ANC, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party were among those who gathered at the family home in Mpumalanga to honour the man many described as a dedicated servant of the people.

Mabuza, who also served as Mpumalanga Premier and later as the country’s Deputy President, is being remembered for his significant contributions to service delivery in the province and beyond.

Former Mpumalanga MEC Pat Ngomane reflected emotionally on Mabuza’s legacy: “I’m saddened, but I must say the man came into my life, touched my life, and gave me many teachings. He benefited countless people in the province and within ANC structures. The first name of Comrade DD was service delivery, he built many roads and brought water into our communities. Even though some projects were not completed, he truly impacted many lives.”

Tributes also poured in from Gauteng, where Premier Panyaza Lesufi visited the Mabuza family home in Bryanston, Johannesburg, to offer condolences. Lesufi, visibly moved, described Mabuza as a guiding force in both politics and leadership.

“He sees things that we can’t see. He offers guidance, even when you don’t ask for it. I feel like an orphan. He was a leader of impeccable credentials,” said Lesufi. “Of course, a leader of his stature would attract criticism, that is natural, but to us, he remains a hero.”

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--