David Mabuza, known by his nickname “The Cat,” is a South African politician. In this article, we will explore David Mabuza Net Worth, early years, career, personal life and controversies.

David Mabuza Net Worth

Early Years

David Dabede Mabuza was born August 25, 1960, in Mpumalanga, South Africa. He grew up in a modest home with his parents and brother.

His parents worked as farmers. Mabuza Mabuza pursued education and eventually became a teacher through training.

Career

During his student years, Mabuza engaged with the Black Consciousness movement, which shaped his early political consciousness. He served as the chairperson of the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), an influential affiliate of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), from 1988 to 1991.

After apartheid ended in 1994, Mathews Phosa appointed David Mabuza as MEC for Education in Mpumalanga. Mabuza served until 1998, when he was fired over a scandal involving manipulated matric results. Following the 1999 election, Mabuza returned to the provincial government as MEC for Housing before serving in the national Parliament from 2001 to 2004. He rose to prominence within the ANC, becoming provincial Deputy Chairperson in 1999 and again in 2005, owing to his forceful leadership style.

Mabuza was elected to the National Executive Committee of the ANC in 2007 after supporting Jacob Zuma’s presidential candidature. He served numerous provincial executive positions before being elected ANC Chairperson of Mpumalanga in 2008. His rule was characterised by populist and xenophobic rhetoric, as well as the centralization of decision-making power. He was elected Premier of Mpumalanga in 2009 and served till 2018, all while remaining a staunch supporter of Zuma.

2015-2018

Mabuza’s efforts to promote ANC membership in Mpumalanga boosted the province’s influence within the party. Along the other provincial leaders, he founded the “Premier League” alliance, which was critical in ANC politics. In 2015, Mabuza survived an alleged poisoning attempt, which he blamed on political opponents. His recuperation included seeking treatment in Moscow, which the Gupta family arranged, raising suspicions about his relationship with them.

Ahead of the ANC’s 54th National Conference in 2017, David Mabuza and the Premier League were regarded as significant “kingmakers” due to their influence over a large number of delegates as well as the ANC Women’s and Youth Leagues. Mabuza, despite possessing tremendous power, did not fully support either Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma or Cyril Ramaphosa, instead advocating for “unity.” His strategy resulted in many delegates spoiling their ballots by writing “unity,” increasing his leverage.

At the convention, Mabuza was elected ANC Deputy President, defeating Lindiwe Sisulu. His win was credited to his tactical manoeuvring, prompting charges of betrayal from Dlamini-Zuma’s side. Despite his influence, journalist Stephen Grootes observed that Mabuza’s strength depended on the close contest between the two main factions.

2018-present

Ramaphosa, who succeeded Zuma, appointed Mabuza as South Africa’s Deputy President in February 2018. He retained his seat following the 2019 general election, despite delays caused by the ANC’s Integrity Commission investigating claims. Mabuza’s responsibilities included monitoring government business in Parliament and leading a number of councils and programmes.

Mabuza took medical leave in 2021 for treatment in Russia, which is thought to be related to an alleged poisoning in 2015. In 2022, his motorcade engaged in two different accidents that resulted in injuries and the death of a security officer.

Mabuza’s quest for the ANC president in 2022 received insufficient support, prompting him to renounce a nomination for re-election as Deputy President. He proposed to resign as the country’s deputy president in early 2023 to allow Paul Mashatile to succeed. Mabuza confirmed his intentions in February, and on March 1, 2023, he resigned as a Member of Parliament, therefore terminating his stint as deputy president.

Personal Life

Mabuza married Ruth Funi Silinda and they had a child together before their divorce. He remarried to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, and they have three children together.

Mabuza founded the DD Mabuza Foundation in 2014. Its aims include education and social upliftment for disadvantaged groups such as children, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

Controversies

A large sum of money was stolen from David Mabuza’s Mpumalanga farm in December 2009. Reports on the amount varied, with police sources reporting R14 million was stolen but only R4 million officially declared missing. This difference prompted concerns, particularly in light of allegations that Mpumalanga politicians accepted kickbacks during the construction of the Mbombela Stadium for the 2010 World Cup.

In 2014, Mabuza sued Mathews Phosa for defamation over a document that claimed he was an apartheid-era spy. The court dismissed the case in 2017.

Mabuza has faced several corruption charges, including claims of establishing a political patronage network and participating in fraudulent land deals. He has continuously refuted these charges, stating that they are smear operations by his opponents.

There have also been recurrent rumours linking Mabuza to political violence, including the murders of Sammy Mpatlanyane and Jimmy Mohlala, who were both active in uncovering tender irregularities at the Mbombela Stadium. Controversial activist James Nkabule accused Mabuza of arranging the killings and later died from poisoning. Mabuza’s former butler testified that Mabuza had a hand in the assassinations, but these allegations have never been proven in court.

Furthermore, Mathews Phosa accused Mabuza of running a “private army” in Mpumalanga to intimidate political opponents, which Mabuza and the provincial ANC rejected.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Mabuza

1. Who is David Mabuza?

Mabuza is a South African politician. He served as the deputy president of South Africa from February 2018 to February 2023.

2. When was David Mabuza born?

Mabuza was born on August 25, 1960.

3. Where was David Mabuza born?

Mabuza was born in Mpumalanga, South Africa.

4. What is David Mabuza’s political affiliation?

Mabuza is a member of the African National Congress (ANC).

5. What position did David Mabuza hold in the ANC?

Mabuza served as the Chairperson of the ANC in Mpumalanga.

6. When did David Mabuza become the Premier of Mpumalanga?

Mabuza became the Premier of Mpumalanga in 2009.

7. How long did David Mabuza serve as Premier of Mpumalanga?

Mabuza served as Premier of Mpumalanga for nine years, until 2018.

8. When did David Mabuza become the Deputy President of South Africa?

Mabuza became the Deputy President of South Africa in 2018.

9. What is David Mabuza’s net worth?

David Mabuza’s net worth is around $10 million.

10. Did David Mabuza marry?

Mabuza married twice. First to Ruth Funi Silinda and currently to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi.

11. How many children does David Mabuza have?

Mabuza has four children.

12. Did David Mabuza claim that he was poisoned?

In 2015, Mabuza claimed he was poisoned and had to take two months’ leave to recover from the attack.

13. What happened in the alleged theft from David Mabuza’s farmhouse?

In 2010, R14 million was allegedly stolen from his farmhouse.

14. What is David Mabuza’s nickname?

“The Cat”.