South Africa Mourns as IFP Founder Mangosuthu Buthelezi Passes Away at 95

South Africa is in mourning following the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the passing of the founder and president of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, at the age of 95. A towering figure in politics and culture, Buthelezi has shaped the lives of South Africans for seven decades.

Buthelezi, who marked his role in history as democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Home Affairs, breathed his last during the early hours of Saturday, a mere two weeks post the commemoration of his 95th birthday. A cherished celebration that he spent in hospital while battling with prolonged back pain.

He was first admitted to the hospital in July and got discharged after rounds of tests and treatment at the onset of September. The cause of his passing, however, hasn't been specified yet.

"Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an outstanding leader in the political and cultural life of our nation, including its ups and downs of liberation struggle, the secure transition to freedom in 1994, and the establishment of a democratic dispensation," stated Ramaphosa. The South African president painted a picture of Buthelezi as a formidable leader and the pivotal Inkosi of the Buthelezi clan.

The Presidency stated that future announcements around mourning arrangements and ways to honor the legacy of the late leader would be made in consultation with his family. The nation waits with bated breath to pay tribute to the influential figure and the profound role he played in our country's history.