The IFP will be celebrating the life and legacy of its leader, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, when it hosts a celebration rally in honour of his 80th birthday at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium, Umlazi, on the 30th of November 2008 starting at 9am. 

Prince Buthelezi, who turned 80 on the 27th of August this year, has a distinguished public service record, spanning over half-a-century, which has earned him a place in South African history as a remarkable leader, peacemaker and a man of reconciliation.

"Prince Buthelezi has earned the affection and admiration of the South African people for his lifetime's work of striving to build a country based upon social justice, equity, the rule-of-law and freedom of expression. He played a leading role in achieving our peaceful transition to multi-party rule and our democracy, which we contend would never have materialised without his contribution," said Narend Singh, IFP MP and Chairperson of the Rally Committee. 

As President of the IFP, Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu Nation and the Chairperson of the House of Traditional Leaders in KwaZulu-Natal, he plays an indispensable role today in promoting the values which sustain our democracy. His powerful public statements have won him the respect of friend and foe alike. 

"We invite all South Africans, not only IFP members and friends, to wish Prince Buthelezi a happy birthday by joining us in Umlazi for a once in a lifetime event. Let us not only celebrate the life of an extraordinary South African, but let us celebrate the achievements and values of a great leader," concluded Singh. 

The official programme, which will include live entertainment by top South African artists, will be released in due course. Members of the public who are unable to attend the rally can send their birthday wishes to Prince Buthelezi via sms to 36779.  

ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND MEDIA ARE INVITED TO ATTEND.
 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Narend Singh, 083 788 5954 or
Liezl van der Merwe, 083 611 7470