Durban — IFP stalwart Musawenkosi Mkhwanazi was hailed as a hero, who was resilient, unwavering and courageous in his fight for social justice during his funeral in Mtubatuba on Sunday.
Mkhwanazi, the IFP member of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), IFP provincial treasurer in KZN and a former mayor of Mtubatuba, died last week following an illness.
His funeral, held at the Mkhwanazi homestead in the Gwabalanda area, was attended by business people and politicians from other political parties, including former KZN premier Dr Zweli Mkhize and ANC provincial secretary Bheki Mtolo.
Mtolo was accompanied by the party’s spokesperson, Mafika Mndebele, who is also a member of the provincial legislature (MPL), MPL Sizophila Mkhize and Prince Thulani Zulu from the Zulu royal house.
Delivering the eulogy, IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa described Mkhwanazi as a leader with “unwavering” commitment to the ideals of the party.
“He was a humble leader. He is someone the party relied on when times were difficult,” said Hlabisa.
Hlabisa, who is also the Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), urged the mourners to emulate Mkhwanazi, who was fondly known as Qhina.
“Qhina led with courage and integrity at all times. He was a servant of the IFP more than anything,” said Hlabisa.
“Mkhwanazi left a lasting legacy of the community service he led. You should be proud of that as the Mkhwanazis.”
Mkhwanazi’s name would forever be etched in the long history of the IFP, Hlabisa told the mourners.
“Qhina’s name will be inked in the history books of the IFP until this world comes to an end,” he said.
In his speech, Mkhize said: “Despite us coming from different political parties, we are one nation. We respect him very much. He made a difference in his village, the province and also at the national level.”
He regaled the mourners with his first encounter with Mkhwanazi.
“No one would change Mkhwanazi from being an IFP member. He would speak his mind without fear. But he always spoke about constructive things,” said Mkhize, the one-time ANC treasurer-general.
Mkhize added: “He was always full of jokes, and full of humility. His departure has shattered even us as ANC leaders.”
Speaker after speaker from his children spoke fondly about Mkhwanazi, with some mourners clad in traditional regalia and chanting traditional slogans.
After his passing, the IFP said: “He (Mkhwanazi) will be remembered for his pride and love of Zulu culture. His admiration for his heritage was evident on special occasions when he would proudly wear traditional Zulu attire, carrying a stick, spear and shield. He was dedicated to educating young boys and men about Zulu culture and hymns (Amahubo kaZulu).”
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