The family of former North West Premier and struggle veteran, Kaobitsa “Bushy” Maape, has officially, on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, during a visit by the North West Provincial Government, announced funeral arrangements ahead of his Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 1 scheduled for Saturday in Huhudi, Vryburg.

Speaking on behalf of the Maape family, Mr Barry Fuleni confirmed that there will be no procession to the graveyard following the funeral service, in accordance with the late former premier’s wish to be cremated.

Fuleni explained that proceedings on Saturday morning will begin with a 45-minute church service at the AME Church from 07h00, after which the official funeral service led by the North West Provincial Government will take place at the Huhudi Stadium, also known as the Huhudi Sports Facility, from 08h00.

During the announcement, Fuleni also paid tribute to Maape’s legacy and encouraged government to continue improving service delivery in communities, saying it would be a fitting way to honour his memory. He further expressed gratitude to the provincial government for its support to the family during the bereavement period.

Meanwhile, North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, accompanied by Members of the Executive Council, Heads of Departments, North West SALGA Chairperson Khumalo Molefe, and the leadership troikas of Naledi Local Municipality and the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, visited the Maape family to pay homage and offer condolences.

Former Premier Maape passed away in Johannesburg on Saturday, 16 May 2026, following a short illness.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since declared the funeral a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 1 and directed that flags across the country fly at half-mast from Friday, 22 May 2026 until the evening of the funeral as a mark of respect.

-The VIP Team 

-NWPG