End of an era

Tributes pour in from far and wide for the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi

HE played a pivotal role in the founding of SA’s democracy, and was the glue that held together the nation, the Zulu monarchy and his own party, the IFP.

This was the consensus of individuals and groups both within and outside the political realm, who paid tribute to Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi after his passing on Saturday morning, aged 95.

A noble leader and a great statesman, who played a major part in the transition of South African society, praise and respect poured in from all quarters for the founder and President Emeritus of the IFP, and Prime Minister to the Zulu monarch and nation.

City of uMhlathuze Mayor, Xolani Ngwezi said Buthelezi was not merely a leader, but a symbol of unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom and justice.

“He was a champion of culture, a staunch advocate for the recognition of traditional authority, and a devoted servant to the Zulu nation and his beloved South Africa.

“His contributions to the development of the province are imprinted in the more than 2 000 schools he helped establish, including the prestigious Mangosuthu University of Technology, and his role in the construction of Unizulu,” said Ngwezi.

Ngwezi further said Buthelezi was integral in the creation of townships and establishment of factories, among others.

“It marks the end of an era. He was a giant whose footsteps were etched indelibly on the canvas of time,” said KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

“For decades, Prince Buthelezi has been a huge political figure.

“His role in the negotiations that led to the democratic transition was emphatic.

“His life's journey earned him international repute in the capitals of Europe and the rest of the world, and a place in the annals of our country's history.

“His passing is equivalent to the burning down of a library, as he was an unmatched chronicler and an encyclopaedia of our history,” she said.

IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa said the party was devastated by the unspeakable loss.

“We will place the legacy of our founder at the centre of all our work in the service of South Africa,” he said.

“On behalf of the IFP, I offer condolences to His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and the Zulu royal family.

“We also extend our sympathies to the Buthelezi clan, whom Prince Buthelezi served as Inkosi for seven decades.”