David Mabuza 'chose to live for the ANC', says sister at memorial service
Zandile Mabuza said that she wished her brother had spent more time with his nephews and nieces.
The ANC held a memorial service for late former Deputy President David Mabuza in Mbombela, Mpumalanga on 10 July 2025. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
MBOMBELA - Former Deputy President David Mabuza's sister has expressed sadness, saying that her brother’s dedication to the African National Congress (ANC) left little time for family.
Zandile Mabuza was speaking at her brother’s memorial service at the Phola Village in Mbombela on Thursday.
She said that she wished her brother had spent more time with his nephews and nieces.
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A tearful and clearly emotional Zandile Mabuza spoke about the sacrifices her brother made in his service to the ANC, saying this came at the expense of time with his family.
"Our kids never spent time with their uncle. They barely knew him. They only saw him on TV."
She expressed pain that some members of the ANC were closer to the former deputy president than his own family was.
"I can't say the ANC failed us but my brother chose them. He chose to live for the ANC."
Mabuza's sister has called on the ANC to encourage its leaders to prioritise family time despite their demanding party and government duties.
David Mabuza’s children recall some of their most treasured moments with their late father. @JusstAlpha pic.twitter.com/ODdShfZVoV
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) July 10, 2025