Prince Buthelezi, or as many others call him - uMmntwana wakwa Phindangenee – has been without question one of the most polarising political figures South Africa has ever produced.
Not only was Buthelezi s role in SA s path to democracy marked by a defiant spirit during the peace talks, but it s also closely linked to the violence that rocked some of the country’s townships in the 80s and 90s.
The foundation said Buthelezi and Mandela came to embody an understanding of reconciliation which had no need of forgiveness, nor of forgetting the past, nor even of learning to like one another.
The former president’s foundation conveyed their condolences following the elder statesman’s passing on Saturday morning, remembering Buthelezi for his unwavering championing of lifelong learning and education.
The elder statesman died at 95 years old on Saturday morning, and his family has thanked South Africans for the outpouring of support following the news.