It is heavy hearts to pay tribute to a towering figure in our nation’s history and a beloved Member of Parliament, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that will forever inspire us and guide our path as a nation.
Prince Buthelezi’s contributions to Parliament were nothing short of remarkable. He embarked on this parliamentary journey in 1994, at the inception of our democratic rule. From that moment, he became a guiding light, illuminating our legislative halls with his wisdom and unwavering commitment to serving our great nation.
His presence was a source of wisdom that consistently guided our work in Parliament. His unmatched dedication and unparalleled commitment to improving the lives of South Africans set a standard that we all aspired to uphold. He possessed a wealth of legislative and political leadership experience, having led a political party both during the apartheid era and in post-apartheid South Africa. This experience was invaluable as we navigated the complex terrain of building a new democratic South Africa.
Prince Buthelezi’s role extended far beyond the walls of Parliament. He was a figure who contributed significantly to the very foundations of our democracy. His courage during the student boycott of 1950 and his response to Dr. HF Verwoed during an Imbizo convened by King Cyrian Bhekuzulu Nyangayezizwe earned him the praise name: “Ubhejane ovimbela amabhulu eblinjini eMona” (the Rhino that blocked the Boers at the Mona bridge). He stood as a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
In 1975, he founded the Inkatha yeNkululeko yeSizwe, a national cultural liberation organization, which later became the Inkatha Freedom Party. He played a crucial leadership as the Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and his staunch opposition to nominal independence for KwaZulu demonstrated his unwavering commitment to freedom and unity in our diverse nation.
As South Africa’s longest-serving Minister of Home Affairs, he navigated the complexities of governance during the presidencies of Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, earning the role of Acting President on numerous occasions. His profound understanding of governance matters left an indelible mark on our country’s political landscape.
Prince Buthelezi’s legacy was not confined to politics alone. He was a visionary whose socio-political philosophy emphasized tradition and modernity. His vision served as a guiding light in our pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
Today, as we bid farewell to this remarkable leader, we remember him as a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on our journey to democracy. His commitment to serving our country remains unparalleled, and his legacy will inspire generations to come.
On behalf of Parliament and all South Africans, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and his political home, the Inkatha Freedom Party. May they find solace in the knowledge that he served our society with humility and dedication.
Rest in Eternal Peace, Shenge, Phungase, wena owadliwa zindlovukazi zamlobolela.
Source: Parliament of South Africa