Mzansi mourns death of Princess Irene, wife of Mangosuthu Buthelezi

25 March 2019 - 15:44
By Kyle Zeeman
Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi and his late wife Princess Irene.
Image: Jackie Clausen / ST Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi and his late wife Princess Irene.

Social media has been flooded with tributes for Irene Audrey Thandekile Buthelezi, the wife of veteran politician Mangosuthu Buthelezi who died on Monday.

"Following a long and difficult illness, Princess Irene passed away peacefully Monday morning at KwaPhindangene.

"She leaves behind her husband of almost 67 years, their children, Prince Ntuthukoyezwe Zuzifa, Princess Phumzile Nokuphiwa and Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela, and many grandchildren. All are devastated by this loss," the Buthelezi family said in a statement confirming the news.

While the family has asked for privacy during the mourning period, social media has been inundated with messages of condolences.

Among those paying tribute was the EFF, which wished the family strength and comfort.

Politicians and ordinary South Africans also offered their prayers of comfort.