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The Economic Freedom Fighters in KwaZulu-Natal mourns the passing of the longest serving Traditional Minister to the Zulu Monarch, and Founder of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. We send our heartfelt condolences to the Buthelezi family,  the Royal Household,  his party members, the Zulu Nation at large , colleagues in the political space and to everyone he impacted positively during his lifetime.

UMntwana wakwaPhindangene who was reunited with his ancestors in the early hours of Saturday morning at the age of 95 was not only a respected global political icon, but was also a walking library to the Zulu Nation.  His passing happens at a very crucial time in the Zulu history, when thousands of maidens are today gathered at Enyokeni Royal Palace in KwaNongoma to celebrate preserving their virginity through the annual Reed dance , also known as Umkhosi woMhlanga.

While we might not have shared the same political ideology with the astute politician, we will be forever grateful for his immense contribution in the politics of this country. During his last years , he was also very instrumental in making sure that the installation of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini Zulu becomes a reality amidst controversy and opposing forces surrounding the throne

Our prayers and thoughts are with his family, the Royal Household,  his party members, the Zulu Nation and all his loved ones during this difficult period. Lala NgoXolo Shenge!

Issued by The EFF in KZN