ANNOUNCEMENT BY
PRINCE MANGOSUTHU BUTHELEZI MP
FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT EMERITUS OF THE INKATHA FREEDOM PARTY
It is with tremendous sadness that I announce the passing of a stalwart of the IFP, Ms Gertrude Magwaza. While she was not ill, she lived alone and had become frail in her twilight years. Sadly, without warning, the Lord quietly called her home.
My family and I grieve this loss, for Ms Magwaza was a dear friend to both me and my late wife, Princess Irene Buthelezi. I appreciated the friendship and support that these two wonderful women found in each other. I always had peace in my heart knowing that Ms Magwaza was there to listen, laugh and share life with Princess Irene.
With her passing, I feel that a chapter has truly closed.
She will be sorely missed, not only in my own home, but in the homes of many in the IFP family. Ms Magwaza was known throughout our organization for her deep commitment to constructive activism. She was a mentor to many and an excellent role-model. Her work for the Party was always happily given and passionately focused.
A former Chief Whip in the Ulundi Municipality, she was a recipient of many awards from Government and other organisations such as Rotary Clubs.
While she did not marry, Ms Magwaza had a daughter, Virginia, now deceased. She is survived by her two grandchildren. She however became a mother to many, offering kindness, advice and straight talk to the youth of our Party. After many years of generosity; giving her time, energy and commitment to others, I pray that Ms Magwaza will now rest in peace.
In this difficult time, I think of the words of Seneca: “The comfort of having a friend may be taken away, but not that of having one.”
The IFP has lost a real stalwart of our organisation. On behalf of the IFP, I express condolences to all those who knew and loved her.
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Contact:
The Hon. Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa MP
IFP National Spokesperson
071 111 0539
