Buthelezi remembered as an astute leader

The legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has once again been put under the spotlight following his passing this past weekend.

Controversial, true servant of the people, astute leader, apartheid collaborator, father of the Zulu nation and one who had love for South Africa are some of the ways in which he was described by analysts and commentators after the news of his passing broke on Saturday morning.

It doesn’t matter how one view Buthelezi, the fact of the matter is that his role in the South African political arena has been a significant one and can’t be ignored.

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“Buthelezi was a giant who played an instrumental role in the fight for democracy during the Apartheid regime and served as Minister of Home Affairs,” said ActionSA President, Herman Mashaba in a media statement on Saturday.

“He led the Zulu political kingdom with unimpeachable distinction, conscience, integrity and high emotional intelligence.”

Those who lived in parts of Gauteng and KZN in the late 80s and early 90s would rather use other words than integrity to describe the Prince of Phindangene.

This is because of the trauma caused by the black on black violence between ANC and IFP supporters at the time. His absence from the CODESA negotiations and initial refusal to take part in the 1994 general elections are still used by his critics to paint him as an enemy of democracy, even after his death.

RISE Mzansi National Leader, Songezo Zibi disagrees. He said had Buthelezi and his IFP not agreed in the last minute to take part in these important elections.

“It is doubtful that the “South African miracle” would have come to pass given the intense violence taking place at the time.”

He went on to praise Buthelezi for his political maturity which contributed to the peace in Gauteng, KZN and across the country.

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As one of the longest serving Members of Parliament, Prince Buthelezi was respected as an elder who shared his wisdom with other members every time it was necessary.

Passing their condolences, the IFP in Gauteng said Buthelezi’s “legacy will continue to linger in the history of our nation, not because it is recorded in the history books, but because it is etched in our hearts and souls.”

The infrastructure that KZN townships had before 1994 and institutions like the Mangosuthu University of Technology will always be associated with his legacy.

Dr. Pieter Groenewald of the FF Plus said, “Dr Buthelezi, the former leader of the IFP was a true symbol of respect and dignity in Parliament.

“He commanded everyone’s respect with his dignified demeanor and was highly respected across political boundaries.”

As much as Buthelezi was a political leader, he was also a traditionalist who dedicated much of his life and energy to the service of the Zulu monarch and nation.

Serving as the traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, he played a pivotal role making sure that the interests the kingdom are always brought to the fore. His last significant contribution was overseeing and assisting with the installation of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as king.