South Africa is in mourning following the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the founding leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and a pivotal figure in the nation's political landscape. His death was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa early on Saturday morning, just two weeks after he turned 95. Buthelezi had been hospitalized and was unable to celebrate his milestone birthday.
President Ramaphosa paid tribute to Buthelezi's extraordinary contributions to South Africa, both in politics and culture. He described him as "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."
In a statement, President Ramaphosa expressed condolences, saying, "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."
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi's life and political career spanned nearly a century and included numerous significant milestones:
1928: Born in the rural district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
1948: Graduated from the University of Fort Hare, studying history and anthropology.
1953: Became the Chief of the Buthelezi Clan, marking the start of his traditional leadership roles.
1975: Founded the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) during the apartheid era, which played a significant role in South African politics.
1984: Appointed as the Chief Minister of KwaZulu, combining traditional leadership with political responsibilities.
1994: Participated in South Africa's first democratic elections, contributing to the end of apartheid, and serving as the country's first Minister of Home Affairs in the new government of national unity.
1995: Acted as South Africa's president on several occasions.
2004: Retired as the leader of the IFP after decades of political involvement.
2021: Officially retired from active politics at the age of 93.
2023: Passed away, leaving behind a legacy of political leadership and a dedication to preserving Zulu culture.
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi's life story is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his nation and its cultural heritage. His influence extended from traditional leadership roles to the highest levels of political power, shaping South Africa's history and contributing to its journey towards democracy. As South Africa prepares to honor his memory, details regarding memorial services and opportunities for the nation to pay its respects will be announced through consultations between the government and the family.