Alex iZinduna pay homage to ‘great leader’ Mangosuthu Buthelezi
Traditional leaders in Alexandra pay tribute to the late former Inkatha Freedom Party founder and AmaZulu traditional prime minister to three Kings Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi who died on September 9.
AmaZulu traditional leaders in Alexandra have paid homage to their late prime minister Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi whom they described as an ‘epitome of peace and a cultural activist par excellence’.
The chairperson of iZinduna Committee (Headmen) in Alexandra, Bongani Msomi of Nobuhle Hostel described the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi as the greatest loss to South African politics, culture a traditional leadership as he is accredited as having played a major role in the preservation of South African traditional leadership.
Buthelezi, who died on September 9 soon after he was discharged from the hospital following his long illness, was the founder of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), considered the fourth biggest political party in the country, and also served as the prime minister of the AmaZulu nation for more than 50 years.
He also served as a member of the National Assembly from the dawn of democracy in 1994 until his passing- and was often described as the voice of reason in the House when matters got heated up.
During the Government of National Unity from 1994 to 1999 under former president Nelson Mandela’s administration, Buthelezi served as Minister of Home Affairs and Mandela would often appoint him as interim president in his absence on trips abroad. He continued to serve in the same capacity as Home Affairs Minister under the Thabo Mbeki administration for another five years.
“Prince Buthelezi played a critical leadership role in South African politics. He taught many of us the importance of preserving traditional leadership and culture in modern society.
“He also played a crucial role during transitional negotiations to ensure the recognition of the AmaZulu monarch and traditional leadership in South Africa. We are very proud that we were among those who benefited from his leadership skills and wisdom,” Msomi said.
IFP chairperson in Ward 75, Phiwayinkosi Ngubane, said they will ensure that Buthelezi’s legacy continues to thrive and lives on even after his death.
“uMtwana wakwa Phindangene [Buthelezi] was one of the greatest leaders that our country has ever produced. He was the epitome of good governance when he was the leader of the KwaZulu government and when he became Minister of Home Affairs from 1994 until 2004.
“He was never fingered in any corrupt deals when he was responsible for these portfolios in government. I hope that leaders of this age will learn from him and lead our country to prosperity as uMtwana did when he was the governor of the KwaZulu government.”
Ngubane added that Buthelezi ensured that today’s generation receives a good education when he was in charge of the KwaZulu government.
“The schools and tertiary institutions of learning that were built during the KwaZulu government are the testament of Buthelezi’s commitment to a better life for all. He was a visionary and a prophet who always anticipated future generational needs,” Ngubane said.
Buthelezi, who was a frequent visitor in Alexandra, will be laid to rest on September 16 at his homestead in Mahlabathini on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal.
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