Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Prince Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi has died.
The 94-year old’s ailing health took a turn for the worse after he suffered complications from back surgery. Buthelezi’s had been admitted to hospital twice in the last month.
He’s being hailed as a political giant for his role in the anti-apartheid movement, despite being a controversial figure in South African politics. Late Archbishop Desmond Tutu famously asked Buthelezi to leave ANC Stalwart Robert Sobukwe’s funeral in 1978.
Buthelezi’s political ideology was rooted in black consciousness. His views on the topic deepened during his tenure as leader of the Zulu Bantustan following the introduction of the Group Areas Act (1950)
He lobbied for an Independent Zulu Nation to be established.
Early Life and Political roots
Buthelezi was born in Mhalabatini, Natal in 1928. As the grandson of the late King Dinuzulu, Buthelelezi was a Zulu Prince. After completing his studies at the University of Fort Hare, he joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1949 following the election of the National Party (NP) and the enactment of apartheid policies.
IN 1953, despite a burgeoning political career, Buthelezi returned home to take his place as Chief of the Buthelezi Clan. While at home his views on Zulu Pride and nationalism developed, and eventually led him to establish the IFP.
Road to Democracy.
After the end of apartheid in 1990, conflict erupted between Zulus and Xhosas of the IFP and ANC respectfully, leading to one of the bloodiest periods in the Natal’s history. Buthelezi was accused by ANC And NP leaders of stoking tensions and spurring on attackers in his party
After the ANC took assumed control in 1994, Buthelezi began urging his followers to find a peaceful solution
He was appointed South Africa’s first ever Home Affairs Minister until 2006, and was known for his antics both during speeches and later in parliament.
Buthelezi remained at the helms of both the Zulu Kingdom and the IFP until his death.
For a full timeline of Buthelezi’s life visit: https://www.ifp.org.za/prince-mangosuthu-buthelezi-timeline/
