THE Zulu monarch, traditional prime minister and IFP founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, held more rallies under the “Free Mandela” banner than any other leader.
This was according to his party, a day before his 95th birthday. Buthelezi will not celebrate his milestone with his family at home in KwaPhindangene in KZN as he is in hospital.
In a statement on Saturday 26 August, the president of IFP, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said Buthelezi was expelled from Fort Hare University because of his political involvement. On the advice of Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda. Buthelezi founded Inkatha in 1975 to revive the liberation struggle within Mzansi.
He also held more rallies under the banner “Free Mandela” than any other leader,” said Hlabisa.
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He said Buthelezi has lived a life of service.
He said Buthelzi continues to serve as the leader of the IFP caucus in the National Assembly to this day, as he has done since 1994.
"During his 29 years in parliament, Prince Buthelezi was always seen by all his political opponents as a voice of reason, with the ability to bring calm and perspective to difficult discussions," Hlabisa said.
He said Buthelezi has fought for the liberation of Mzansi from a young age. Buthelezi has been in hospital for a month and his family hopes he will be discharged next week.
The family said it was revealed that although Buthelezi will still be in hospital during his birthday, but has made a steady recovery and the complication he suffered has been resolved.
Family spokesman Dr Bhekuyise Buthelezi said Prince Buthelezi has been making steady progress under the supervision of the hospital's medical team.
"The complications he suffered have been cleared, and the doctors are happy with his health condition. We are of course sad that he will not be in KwaPhindangene on his birthday on Sunday, 27 August, but we are delighted with his recovery and look forward to next week," he said.
Buthelezi is the oldest member of parliament.
