Welcoming remarks by the Acting Premier Siboniso Duma at the Special Official Funeral of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi held under Ulundi Local Municipality
16 September 2023
Programme Director;
Leaders of Faith Based Organizations;
Bereaved Buthelezi Family;
Zulu Royal Family;
Swazi Royal Family and other Royal Families;
President of the Republic of South Africa His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa;
Former President of Nigeria Mr Olusegun Obasanjo who is Buthelezi Family friend;
Former President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma;
Chief Justice Zondo;
Speaker of the National Assembly Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers;
Members of the Provincial Executive Council;
Diplomatic Corps;
Members of National Parliament and Provincial Legislatures;
Leadership of the governing party the ANC;
President of the IFP Velenkosini Hlabisa and other leaders;
Leaders and representatives of other political parties;
Mayors and councillors;
Captains of industry;
Amakhosi;
Amabutho;
Mourners;
Viewers at home and in various platforms;
And Members of the Fourth Estate
Distinguished Guests – Ladies and Gentlemen
Good Afternoon

It is with a deep sense of humility that I rise to welcome you to this special farewell.

We wish to thank the President of the Republic of South Africa His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa for declaring this a Special Official Funeral Category 1.

It is true that leaders of rare qualities are hard to come by.

This declaration therefore symbolizes the greatest honour the ANC government could bestow over a leader of our people on his last days on earth.