Durban – Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi – the prime minister to the Zulu monarch and nation – has been hospitalised, “but is not critical”, his spokesperson assured Monday.
Liezl van der Merwe, Spokesperson and Press Officer to Prince Buthelezi said: “It has come to my attention that rumours are circulating regarding the ill health of His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.”
Van der Merwe added: “In the interest of allaying fears, I wish to confirm that Prince Buthelezi has been hospitalised, but is not critically ill.
“He was admitted for routine tests and treatment for prolonged back pain and underwent a small procedure for back pain management.
“Although he was discharged, he, unfortunately, needed to be readmitted for further treatment and recovery.”
Van der Merwe said the nation will be kept abreast as and when necessary about the health status of the 94-year-old Inkatha Freedom Party founder and MP.
“A request has been made that well-wishers please refrain from visiting, as a speedy recovery depends on rest,” said Van der Merwe.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) extended “its best wishes” to Prince Buthelezi.
“We wish HRH a speedy and full recovery, and stand in solidarity with his political home, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and the entire Zulu nation during this period of rest,” said John Steenhuisen the leader of the DA.
“As a revered and respected leader of the Zulu people and a cherished and admired hero of both the struggle for South Africas freedom and the establishment of our democratic dispensation, HRH remains a poignant figure to our nation.
“We look forward to leaning on HRHs wisdom and experience for years to come as South Africa charters new waters in a national coalition government in 2024, where we are sure the IFP will play a critical role in delivering South Africa from three decades of ANC rule.”
The IFP is a vital player in South Africas democracy today thanks to the selfless work of His Royal Highness, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and the IFP across our nation.
“On behalf of the entire DA, I send my warmest wishes for a quick recovery to a great statesman and a father of our nation, Prince Buthelezi,” said Steenhuisen.
