Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, one of South Africa’s most well-known politicians and founder of the Inkhata Freedom Party, has passed away early this morning.

The news of his passing was announced by the family as well as President Cyril Ramaphosa in statements this morning.

Ramaphosa said Buthelezi’s passing comes just two weeks after he celebrated his birthday.

The Zulu prince was admitted to hospital in August. He was readmitted after his initial discharge from the hospital after complications with a minor procedure to relieve back pain.

A week ago, his family released a statement saying Buthelezi was again discharged from hospital and was recovering at home. The family said he would not return to work immediately.

Buthelezi founded the IFP in 1975. He was the first minister of home affairs in democratic South Africa in 1994.

Read an obituary about him here.

At the time of his passing, he was also the Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu king, Misuzulu kaZwelethini.

I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Prince of KwaPhindangene, Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation, and the Founder and President Emeritus of the Inkatha Freedom Party.

Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has been an… pic.twitter.com/pqa2iJpysz

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) September 9, 2023