KZN mourns “champion of peace” former premier Frank Mdlalose

Lungani Zungu

ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe, speaking about the late Dr Frank Mdlalose, said: “The people of KZN will treasure his memory as a champion of peace.”

Tributes are streaming in following the death of Mdlalose, the first KZN premier.

The 89-year-old IFP stalwart died on Saturday from a Covid-19-related illness.

Mabe said Mdlalose will be remembered for his tireless efforts in brokering peace between the IFP and the ANC in the 1980s.

“The ANC conveys its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the IFP and the people of KZN as a whole,” said Mabe.

In 1998, Mdlalose was appointed as South Africa’s ambassador to Egypt.

Having served the IFP for three decades, in 2005, Mdlalose surprised many when he joined the opposition DA.

Newly-elected DA leader in KZN, Francois Rodgers hailed Mdlalose as a leader who worked well with all political parties during his time as premier.

“He included the DA in his provincial cabinet in the position of Chairman of Education. Dr Mdlalose served the province and his country well during his tenure and his passing is a great loss,” said Rodgers.

“The DA would also like to wish a speedy recovery to Mama Mdlalose who is reported to be in the hospital.”

The IFP said Mdlalose, its former national chairperson, was a political giant.

A medical doctor by profession, Mdlalose took the reins as premier in 1994 after the IFP won the KZN province, despite the ANC winning the national elections.

The details of the funeral are yet to be announced.

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