Picture: The late IFP leader and Apartheid collaborator, Mangosuthu Buthelezi/Twitter
By OBAKENG MAJE
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a state funeral for apartheid collaborator, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said that, the late Buthelezi will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral, Category 1, at Ulundi in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mangosuthu passed away in the early hours of Saturday aged 95. Magwenya said Buthelezi, who was popularly known as “The Prince of KwaPhindangene”, served as Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation and was the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
“He also served as the first Minister of Home Affairs of the democratic South Africa. As preparations unfold for memorial events, Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Royal Household as well as the friends, colleagues – including Members of Parliament – and associates nationally and internationally of the late leader.
“The State, Official and Provincial Official Funeral Policy of government accords Special Official Funerals, Category 1, to persons of extraordinary credentials specifically designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa,” he said.
Mangwenya further said Buthelezi’s funeral will entail elements of military honours. He added that, Ramaphosa has directed that, flags be flown at half-mast at flag stations around the country from Tuesday until the evening of the day on which the funeral will take place.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, John Steenhuisen said they pay homage to Buthelezi’s family today.
“Today, I will lead a DA delegation to pay respects to the Buthelezi family following the passing of IFP Founder and President Emeritus and Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi,” he said.
The Guardian 