Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s Family Welcomes the Decision To Make His Grave a Heritage Site

• The family of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi weighed in on the government's decision to make Buthelezi's grave a heritage site
• Buthelezi, the founder of the Inkatha Freedom Party and the former Prime Minister of the Royal Zulu family, died in 2023
• His family celebrated the decision, and many South Africans shared their opinions on the government's move

Tebogo Mokwena, an experienced journalist at Briefly News, contributed to political and traditional leadership coverage in Daily Sun and Vutivi Business News for seven years in South Africa.

KWAZULU-NATAL — The family of former Crown Prince Mangouthu Buthelwzi has welcomed the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government's decision to declare his graveyard a heritage site. The launch will take place on 27 August 2025.

The family has partnered with the Provincial Government to launch Buthelezi's graveyard as a heritage site. The launch will take place at the KWaPhindangene Royal Residence in Mahlabathini. Buthelezi's son, Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi, said the family showed that Buthelezi's dedication to the public was not in vain.

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Zuzifa said that his family was affected by Buthelezi's absence in their lives, as he was largely absent from his family. He said that his absence was worth it asd those whom he served have not forgotten him.

What did the governments say?

The provincial government said that the move will ensure that future generations will remember Buthelezi's role as a leader and a man of extraordinary devotion to South Africans. Buthelezi died at the age of 95 on 9 September after a short battle with illness.

Shortly after his death, former president Jacob Zuma commended Buthelezi's peacekeeping efforts in ending political conflict in the 90s. He also acknowledged his contributions to the Zulu monarchy.

What did South Africans say?

Netizens commenting on Facebook discussed the government's move,

Mandla TP Gaaje asked:

"Was he above the late Zulu kings?"

Mbutho Ka Langa Masina said:

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"Indeed, it must be a heritage site so we can learn not to repeat his mistake."

Bright Thulare said:

"The IFP is in power in KZN. Anything that has Gatsha on it is now heritage and holy."

Ziyanda Izibusiso Shandu asked:

"At what cost? And where is the moola being looted from?"

Sandile Steven Zulu said:

"It will take time for the king's grave to be a heritage site. Maybe they won't even show you the real one."

Habe Habebusiswa said:

"He was a good man. I will always remember his soul."

Zamokuhle Mkhie said:

"The next generation must learn about this great man and his work."

Khala Bem'geza said:

"Working for the enemy and getting rewarded even after meeting Judas."

David Allen said:

"I think it's a great idea. Having met him on a few occasions, I feel it's a fine tribute."

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IFP wishes Buthelezi a heavenly birthday

In a related article, Briefly News reported that the IFP wished Buthelezi a heavenly birthday on 27 August 2024. This was after Buthelezi died at the age of 95 in 2023.

The party said it honoured his visionary leadership and noted that his enduring legacy continues to inspire and guide the IFP.

Source: Briefly News