@ParliamentofRSA
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the passing of the founder and president of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Mangosuthu Buthelezi at the age of 95.
Buthelezi, who served as democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Home Affairs, passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, just two weeks after the celebration of his 95th birthday.
He spent his birthday in hospital.
He was discharged from the hospital at the beginning of September after being admitted in July for tests and treatment for prolonged back pain.
"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," Ramaphosa said.
The Presidency said announcements will be made in due course, based on consultations between government and the family, on the arrangements to mourn and honor "the Inkosi of the Buthelezi clan as a formidable leader who has played a significant role in our country’s history for seven decades."
DA leader, John Steenhuizen says he was a giant on South Africa's political landscape and will live forever in the hearts and minds as a true servant leader who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others and fighting for freedom.
Action SA's leader, Herman Mashaba says Buthelezi was a giant who played an instrumental role in the fight for democracy during the Apartheid regime.
He says he led the Zulu political kingdom with unimpeachable distinction, conscience, integrity, and high emotional intelligence.
The leader of the Freedom Front Plus, Dr Pieter Groenewald said Bhutelezi was a symbol of respect in Parliament.
