Tributes have continued to pour in for Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi, 55, daughter of the late uMntwana waKwaPhindangene, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and Undlunkulu Princess Irene. The Princess, who passed away on Monday, was remembered for her dedication to democracy and her tireless service to the nation.
Inkosi of the Buthelezi Clan, Prince Ntuthukoyezwe Zuzifa Buthelezi, confirmed the passing of Princess Angela, who had fallen ill while in Cape Town for parliamentary duties. She was admitted to a hospital in Cape Town last week but tragically passed away after her condition worsened.
“The loss of Princess Angela, just a year after our father’s passing, is a terrible shock to the family,” Prince Zuzifa stated. He added that while her health had been a concern for several years, her sudden death was unexpected.
Princess Angela was among the last three remaining children of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, along with her siblings, Prince Zuzifa and Princess Phumzile Nokuphiwa. She is survived by her only child, Princess Ntando Nkeiruka, who was always by her side during her final days.
The Buthelezi family has expressed their heartfelt condolences to Princess Ntando during this painful time. Funeral arrangements for Princess Angela are yet to be announced.
Legacy of Service and Dedication
Princess Angela was deeply involved in both political and philanthropic spheres. As a trustee of the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Foundation, she worked tirelessly to promote South Africa’s Constitution, the Bill of Rights, multiparty democracy, and transparency in governance. Her unwavering belief in accountability and good governance set her apart as a dedicated servant of the people.
A proud representative of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) in Parliament, Princess Angela began her tenure in the National Assembly during the sixth term of Parliament, following the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. She served in key parliamentary committees, including human settlements and tourism, where her insightful contributions were greatly valued. Previously, she had also served on committees overseeing cooperative governance, traditional affairs, and water and sanitation.
Her colleagues in Parliament have expressed deep sadness at the news of her passing. Moloto Mothapo, Parliament spokesperson, highlighted Princess Angela’s dedication to the legislative process. “Her voice in Parliament was a force for positive change, consistently advocating for those who are often overlooked in society,” Mothapo stated.
A Force for Change
The presiding officers of Parliament described her as a “champion of democracy” whose contributions enhanced the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight. Chairperson of the human settlements committee, Nocks Seabi, added that the country had lost a devoted public representative who worked tirelessly for the betterment of human settlements.
Princess Angela’s commitment was evident just days before her death, as she participated in an oversight visit to KwaZulu-Natal and interacted with colleagues in preparation for upcoming meetings. “Her dedication to serving the people of South Africa was unquestionable, and she passed on with her boots on,” Seabi said, extending his condolences to the Buthelezi family and the IFP.
Political Leaders Pay Tribute
Political leaders across South Africa have joined in mourning Princess Angela’s passing. DA KwaZulu-Natal leader Francois Rodgers commended her significant role in strengthening democracy and promoting unity in the country. He extended condolences to her family, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to the nation.
ActionSA’s Zwakele Mncwango echoed these sentiments, noting that her passing had sent shockwaves across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. “Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come,” Mncwango stated.
The EFF in KZN also paid tribute, expressing heartfelt condolences to Princess Angela’s family and friends. They prayed for strength and comfort during this difficult time, offering their support to the Buthelezi family and the IFP.
Princess Angela Buthelezi leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and a tireless commitment to democracy that will not be forgotten.
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