Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi recently shared fond memories of the late Deputy President David Mabuza, describing him as a guiding figure in his life. Lesufi’s heartfelt tribute to Mabuza came during a memorial service held in honour of the late deputy president at the Tshwane Events Centre.
Lesufi, who served as the deputy president’s spokesperson during his tenure as Mpumalanga Premier, spoke of the impact Mabuza had on his personal and professional life. He fondly recalled how Mabuza’s guidance and mentorship had shaped him into the leader he is today.
“I remember Mabuza as a guiding figure, not just in my career but in my life as a whole. He was a father figure to me, always offering words of wisdom and encouragement,” Lesufi said.
The MEC also shared how Mabuza had played a pivotal role in his appointment as the Gauteng Education MEC, a position he has held since 2014. He credited Mabuza for believing in him and pushing him to reach his full potential.
“I will forever be grateful to him for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to serve the people of Gauteng. He saw something in me that I didn’t even see in myself,” Lesufi added.
Mabuza’s passing has left a void not only in the political landscape but also in the hearts of those who knew him personally. Lesufi’s reminiscence of their time together painted a picture of a humble and compassionate leader who always put the needs of the people first.
“He was a man of the people, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He had a deep understanding of the challenges faced by our communities and worked tirelessly to find solutions,” Lesufi said.
Lesufi also highlighted Mabuza’s commitment to education, describing him as a champion for quality education for all. He shared how Mabuza had initiated various programmes to improve the education system in Mpumalanga and how he continued to support education initiatives even after his move to national government.
“He was passionate about education and believed that it was the key to unlocking a better future for our children. He was always willing to listen and support any initiatives aimed at improving the education system,” Lesufi added.
The MEC urged South Africans to honour Mabuza’s legacy by continuing to work towards achieving the goals he had set for the country. He also encouraged young leaders to emulate Mabuza’s leadership style and always put the needs of the people first.
“Let us continue to work towards building a better South Africa, just as Mabuza did. Let us remember his selfless spirit and strive to make a positive impact in our communities,” Lesufi said.
In conclusion, Lesufi’s heartfelt tribute to Mabuza serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on the lives of others. Mabuza’s legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched and the positive changes he brought to the country. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his life and the lessons he has left behind for us to learn from.
