High Court blocks payout of DD Mabuza’s R44m investment amid family dispute

High Court blocks payout of DD Mabuza’s R44m payout amid family dispute

Zuko Komisa

David Mabuza's family in legal battle over R44.7 million pension payout — Image | GCIS

The Mpumalanga High Court has temporarily blocked the R44 million investment payout of late former Deputy President David Mabuza from Alexander Forbes.
The court action was brought by Mabuza’s daughter, Tamara Silinda, who is challenging the payout to his claimed widow, Nonhlahla Mnisi, and demanding maintenance funds.
The judge ordered Alexander Forbes to clarify the fund’s status (pension fund vs. life insurance) amid discrepancies and questions over Mr Mabuza’s marital status.

The Mpumalanga High Court has issued an interim order preventing Alexander Forbes Financial Services from disbursing the R44 million investment fund of the late former Deputy President, David Mabuza.

The payout, which was reportedly designated for Nonhlahla Mnisi, who claimed to be his wife, is now on hold pending the final outcome of the legal challenge.

The urgent application to halt the payment was brought by Mr Mabuza’s daughter, Tamara Silinda. The former statesman, who served as Deputy President from 2018 to 2023, passed away on 3rd July 2025. Court documents show that a copy of his death certificate indicates he was never formally married, casting doubt over the legality of his union with Mnisi.

Ms Silinda is demanding monthly maintenance of R40,000 for basic necessities, including clothing, transport, and medical expenses, as she was dependent on her father’s medical aid.

She is also claiming R127,990 towards her annual tuition fees at the University of Cape Town.

The central issue in the proceedings revolves around a living annuity Mr Mabuza invested with Alexander Forbes, which will determine the rightful beneficiary among his loved ones. Judge Johannes Roelofse required clarification on whether the funds were held in a life insurance policy or a pension fund.

To resolve this, he ordered Alexander Forbes to file affidavits by Friday, 26th September, explaining the discrepancies between the schedule of benefits and the policy document. The judge granted the interim order to stop the disbursement during the proceedings to maintain the status quo until the matter is definitively resolved.