Shock as Zulu King passes on after short illness
By SIHLE MKHIZE
The AmaZulu nation is in shock after waking up to the news that their leader, King Goodwill Zwelithini has passed on following a short illness.
The king was hospitalised early last month for what was then thought was a precautionary measure after a concern regarding his health was discovered.
But according to a statement released by the Prime Minister of the Zulu Monarch, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi on Friday morning, the King succumbed to a yet undisclosed illness.
“It is with the utmost grief that I inform the nation of the passing of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu.
“Tragically, while in hospital, His Majesty’s health took a turn for the worse and he subsequently passed on in the early hours of this morning (Friday),” read the statement in part.
Shenge, as Buthelezi is known, also thanked the nation for their well wishes and prayers while iSilo was in hospital.
King Zwelithini ascended to the role of leading the Zulu nation in 1968 after the death of his father, King Cyprian Bhekuzulu but his official coronation was in 1971. Between 1968 and 1971, Prince Israel Mcwayizeni kaSolomon acted as a regent while King Zwelithini was whisked away to St Helena after threats of an assassination were discovered.
The Purpose Magazine sends its condolences to the Zulu Monarch and the entire Zulu nation and wishes them strength during this difficult time – Bayethe!
