Mabuza was resilient in the face of political storms: Ramaphosa

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the state funeral of former deputy president David Mabuza, describing him as a unifier of the nation.

- MASHUDU SADIKE

The funeral was held at Hoërskool Bergvlam in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, on Saturday.

Ramaphosa praised Mabuza for his dedication to public service and his commitment to improving the lives of ordinary South Africans.

"He was a man of sharp intellect, deep pragmatism, and quiet resolve," said Ramaphosa.

"To some, he was the 'cat with nine lives' - resilient in the face of political storms."

Mabuza's passion for education was evident in his work as a teacher and his efforts to improve access to education for rural communities.

Ramaphosa noted that Mabuza's legacy includes establishing many rural boarding schools, which helped eradicate the barrier to education for farm children.

He described Mabuza as a unifier of the nation, who worked tirelessly to bring people together across party lines and racial divides.

"He stood firm for the unity of his movement, the ANC, and it was his lifelong dream to see a strong, united ANC."