Ramaphosa pays tribute to Princess Irene Buthelezi
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to Princess Irene Buthelezi, saying she cared deeply for her community.
The wife of IFP leader Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi died on Monday at the family's home in KwaPhindangene after a long illness.
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She was 89-years-old.
Speaking at the funeral service at Ulundi Stadium in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Ramaphosa said Princess Irene was among the women in the country who stood up to the apartheid regime.
"When we needed wisdom, pragmatism, respect and the willingness to accommodate and compromise the most, the Princess played the role of counsellor and unifier -- making it possible for us to end conflict and begin the journey towards healing the divisions of our past," said the President.
Princess Irene is also survived her three children, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Her daughter - Sibuyiseliwe Buthelezi earlier read the obituary. She described her mother as a woman of strength.
President @CyrilRamaphosa has arrived at the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium for the funeral service of the Queen of KwaPhindangene, Indlunkulu Irene Audrey Thandekile Buthelezi. pic.twitter.com/K12jLwUeOG
— PresidencyZA (@PresidencyZA) March 29, 2019