South Africa mourns the loss of a significant figure in its political landscape, Prince Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi, the founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). He passed away at the age of 95, a detail confirmed by his family who expressed both grief and gratitude for his life.
In a heartfelt statement, the family conveyed their sorrow, stating:
“It is with utter grief that we, the family of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP, announce the passing of South Africa’s truest champion and greatest servant, our father, uMntwana wa KwaPhindangene.
“In this devastating moment, we thank God Almighty for His faithfulness and grace, knowing with certainty that uMntwana has been embraced by His Lord. He quietly and painlessly stepped into eternity in the early hours of this morning.
“We realise that this loss will be deeply felt by many and that many will wish to express their condolences and pay their respects in the days ahead. The family will engage His Majesty the King and the Royal Family, His Excellency the President, the Buthelezi Clan and the leadership of the Inkatha Freedom Party as the necessary funeral arrangements are made. Further details in this regard will be announced in due course,”
A Life Dedicated to Service
Born in 1928 into the Zulu royal family, Buthelezi held the title of Prince and served as the traditional prime minister to the Zulu monarch, a role that positioned him as a significant figure in the cultural and political spheres of South Africa.
In July, Buthelezi was hospitalised, a development that was initially downplayed by his spokesperson who mentioned it was for routine back treatment, dismissing reports suggesting a terminal illness.
Nation’s Leaders and Citizens Express Condolences
As news of his passing broke, a wave of condolences began to flood social media, with many paying tribute to a man who has been a constant in South African politics for decades.
President Cyril Ramaphosa joined the nation in mourning, acknowledging Buthelezi’s substantial contribution to the nation’s political and cultural life. He noted:
“I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Prince of KwaPhindangene, Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, and the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.
“Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an outstanding leader in the political and cultural life of our nation, including the ebbs and flows of our liberation struggle, the transition which secured our freedom in 1994 and our democratic dispensation,”
As South Africa grapples with this significant loss, many are reflecting on the life and legacy of a man who played a pivotal role in the nation’s history, steering it through critical junctures and leaving an indelible mark on its political landscape. The nation now awaits further details on the funeral arrangements, a moment to bid farewell to a leader who has been a part of South Africa’s story for the better part of a century.
The EFF Sends Its Deepest Condolences To The Zulu Royal Family And The Inkatha Freedom Party On The Passing Of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
Lala Ngoxolo Shenge! pic.twitter.com/XdugVaG25H
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) September 9, 2023
I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Prince of KwaPhindangene, Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, and the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an… pic.twitter.com/pqa2iJpysz
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 9, 2023
