By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider 

The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has drafted a proposal to have a statue erected in honour of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi which would stand alongside key figures such as Nelson Mandela and OR Tambo in Durban and this has triggered a mixed response. 

The MEC’s argument was that the founder and leader of the Inkhata Freedom Party (IFP) is also considered a monumental figure who deserves to be celebrated. However this proposal was rejected by the ANC in Durban. 

Thabani Ndlovu, who represents the Democratic Alliance cluster that is based in Durban, had spoken out in regards to this proposal stating that the main concern of these parties should not be highlighting political spearheads but rather to focus on the needs of the residents.

 “At a time when communities are facing ongoing water shortages, failing infrastructure, and deteriorating basic services, it is deeply concerning that the governing parties are focused on symbolic battles instead of real solutions. The DA believes that any available resources should be directed towards improving the lives of residents. The people of eThekwini are demanding reliable services, not statues” said Ndlovu. 

However, MEC Buthelezi argued that South African history is incomplete without the founder of the IFP stating that Mangosuthu had kept the revolution alive while the ANC was banned. The ANC leadership based in eThekwini have noted that although Mangosuthu is regarded with much respect and honour as an elder statesman that to regard him amongst a hero of the liberation struggle would not be an honest account of his efforts.

 “Therefore, we reiterate our support for the decision taken by the eThekwini Municipality to honour the genuine heroes of the struggle for emancipation and liberation in South Africa. It is both appropriate and necessary that the democratic state continues to honour those whose contributions to the liberation of our people are beyond dispute” read the statement written by the ANC eThekwini cluster.

 Leader of the IFP in eThekwini, Mdu Nkosi, had defended the legacy of Mangosuthu, highlighting that figures such as Oliver Tambo had consulted him in important political matters as well as mobilising the masses.

 Nkosi further highlighted that Buthelezi was actively involved with the release of Nelson Mandela and had been in communication with Mandela during the years of his imprisonment.

 “If Shenge [Buthelezi] was not part of the liberation, then who made this province better? It was Prince Buthelezi” said Nkosi, also highlighting that Buthelezi contributed to building schools and financial institutions.