Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi, the youngest daughter of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, has tragically passed away. Princess Angela, who was also a prominent IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party) member of Parliament, died in the early hours of Monday, October 21, 2024, after being admitted to a Cape Town hospital.
Her passing was confirmed by the Buthelezi family, with the inkosi of the Buthelezi clan, Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi, expressing the family’s profound sadness over the untimely death of Princess Angela. He described the loss as a devastating shock for the family, especially coming just a year after the death of their father, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a revered leader in South Africa.
Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi said in a statement, “In the early hours of this morning, the Buthelezi family received the devastating news of the untimely passing of her royal highness, Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi. It is with deep pain that we share this loss with the nation.”
He further explained that Princess Angela, aged 55, had been ill for some time but had not been expected to pass away so suddenly. “While her health was not perfect for several years, we did not expect this sudden news. Her passing is a terrible shock, and we are grappling with this immense loss.”
Princess Angela was in Cape Town to attend a Parliamentary session when she became ill. After being admitted to a hospital for a week, her condition worsened, and she sadly passed away. Her sudden death has left a significant void in the Buthelezi family and the wider community.
Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi also highlighted the close bond shared between the three surviving siblings, with Princess Angela being the youngest of eight children born to the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and the late Princess Irene. “Together with my older sister, Princess Phumzile Buthelezi, we were the last remaining children of uMntwana waKwaPhindangene among eight siblings,” he shared.
The Buthelezi family has yet to announce the details of her funeral, but they indicated that these will be shared in due time. The Buthelezi family is expected to receive a large outpouring of support from the community and the IFP members, given their prominent role in South African politics and Zulu royal
Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi is survived by her only child, Princess Ntando Nkeiruka. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Buthelezi family, who have been central figures in both Zulu leadership and South African politics for decades.
As the nation mourns the loss of another prominent figure from the Buthelezi family, many will remember Princess Angela’s dedication to her role in Parliament and her unwavering support for the IFP. Her death follows the legacy left by her father, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, whose leadership and influence shaped much of South Africa’s political landscape.
In the coming days, more information regarding Princess Angela’s funeral and memorial services will be made available. The nation is expected to unite in grief and solidarity to honor her life and contributions.