He was released from hospital just a week ago due to prolonged back pain. His family and announced that he was recovering well, after an operation. Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, and IFP Founder Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has passed on.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed his death. “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,” he share din a statement. “Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an outstanding leader in the political and cultural life of our nation, including the ebss and flows of our liberation struggle, the transition which secured our freedom in 1994 and our democratic dispensation. Prince Buthelezi, who served as the democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Home Affairs, passed away in the early hours of today, Saturday, 9 September 2023, just two weeks after the celebration of his 95th birthday. My thoughts and prayers and those of government and our nation go out to the Royal Household who have been blessed to share uMntwana waKwaPhindangene’s extended lifetime with him, as well as to the Zulu Nation and the leadership and membership of the Inkatha Freedom Party.”
He goes to say that announcements will be made in due course, based on consultations between government and the family, on the arrangements to mourn and honour the Inkosi of the Buthelezi clan as a formidable leader who has played a significant role in our country’s history for seven decades. “We shall, in due course, reflect more extensively on his extraordinary life and diverse contributions to the development of our nation. At this point in time, we embrace the Buthelezi clan in their mourning and pray that the soul of the Prince rests in peace,” the president adds.
Prince Mangosuthu’s family also shared their devastation in a statement. “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,” the statement reads. “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.”
Bongi Sikelo 