Tributes have started pouring in for the fallen political giant, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
He died during the early hours of Saturday morning after recently being released from hospital.
Also referred to as uMntwana wakwaPhindangene, Buthelezi’s death comes two weeks after celebrating his 95th birthday.
Leader of the Democratic Alliance John Steenhuisen took to social media and said the party extends its deep and sincere condolences to the family of Buthelezi.
“To his beloved Inkatha Freedom Party and the Zulu Nation, who have lost a great leader; and indeed, to all South Africans, who have lost a founding father,” said Steenhuisen.
Herman Mashaba, president of ActionSA, said Buthelezi led with unimpeachable distinction, conscience, integrity and high emotional intelligence.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Buthelezi Family, the amaZulu Nation, and members of the IFP who have all been bereft by his unfortunate passing. ActionSA’s Leadership will be visiting his family to offer our support during this difficult period and will await funeral details so as to be in attendance,” added Mashaba.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also released a statement mourning the death of one the longest-serving political figures in South Africa.
“South Africa’s history, with all its trials, tribulations and contradictions, cannot be told without mentioning the role of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and the political party he founded and led for 44 years, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).”
It said Buthelezi was a statesman, and a traditional prime minister to the Zulu Nation, and his legacy will remain a debate in the South African political terrain for years to come.
“The EFF, however, appreciates that in his final years of political activity, he was able to suppress political intolerance in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, which allowed the EFF to campaign freely in the province in its formative stages. We send our deepest condolences to the Zulu Royal Family and to the Inkatha Freedom Party and hope that the soul of Umntwana ka Phindangene Rests In Eternal Peace,” added the EFF.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) also noted with sadness the passing of Buthelezi.
It said, over a span of many years, uShenge made significant contributions to South Africa’s political landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
“We acknowledge Prince Buthelezi’s role in upholding the traditions and stability of the Zulu Nation, particularly his instrumental support for the ascension of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the son of the late King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, to the throne.
“This underscores his commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of the Zulu people.
While Prince Buthelezi’s legacy is marked by diverse perspectives, we remember his contributions with solemnity and respect, recognizing the complexities of his journey in South Africa’s political history. Lala ngoxolo Mnatan’ omhle ugqatso ulufezile,” added the political party.
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