It is with utter grief that we, the family of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP, announce the passing of South Africa’s truest champion and greatest servant, our father, uMntwana wa KwaPhindangene.

In this devastating moment, we thank God Almighty for His faithfulness and grace, knowing with certainty that uMntwana has been embraced by His Lord. He quietly and painlessly stepped into eternity in the early hours of this morning.

We realise that this loss will be deeply felt by many and that many will wish to express their condolences and pay their respects in the days ahead. The family will engage His Majesty the King and the Royal Family, His Excellency the President, the Buthelezi Clan and the leadership of the Inkatha Freedom Party as the necessary funeral arrangements are made. Further details in this regard will be announced in due course.

As we come to terms with this unspeakable trauma, we as the family request that our privacy be respected. We ask that all media enquiries be directed to the Hon. Ms Liezl van der Merwe MP on 082 729 2510 and Dr Bhekuyise Ngqengelele Buthelezi on 071 623 3513 or 063 379 1644, and that messages of condolences be sent via any of the following –

• Mrs Lyndith Waller 073 929 1418, lyndithw@ifp.co.za
• Prince Zola Dotwana 060 997 6122, zdotwana@ifp.org.za
• Ms Bongi Maphanga 082 931 2160, maphanga@ifp.org.za
• We thank the nation for the immense support that has been shown towards our family in the past few weeks, and give thanks for the prayers that will surely sustain us now.

May South Africa’s beloved servant rest in peace.

Statement by The Hon. Princess Phumzile Nokuphiwa Buthelezi MPL, Prince Ntuthukoyezwe Zuzifa Buthelezi, The Hon. Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi MP, Princess Michelle Imelda Buthelezi