On Saturday, 9 September, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the saddening news that the Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi passed away that morning.

 

 

The first democratic Minister of Home Affairs in South Africa, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s death comes just two weeks after his 95th birthday celebration. He had spent some time in hospital as well as in the Intensive Care Unit after having suffered health complication, ENCA reported. He had initially been admitted due to prolonged back pain, his family had previously shared.President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the tragic news of the death of the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.

“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,” he wrote on X (the social media platform formally known as Twitter).Since President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement, tributes have been pouring in. Funeral details have not yet been released, however, Ramaphosa shared that details will be announced in due course.

“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 wrote.

“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,” the President shared.