United Democratic Movement leader Bantu Holomisa has described Zulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu, as a respected individual among South Africans.
The King passed away on Friday morning at the age of 72, after being in hospital for more than a month.
Former Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader, Mangosuthu Buthelezi, confirmed the death.
The King was being treated for an ongoing diabetes problem.
He was admitted to the hospital last week to receive treatment for unstable blood glucose levels.
According to Buthelezi, KaBhekuzulu had several unstable blood glucose readings over the past few weeks prompting the decision by doctors to admit him to ICU for treatment.
Holomisa says South Africans will follow his teachings.
SAfm’s Sunrise programme spoke to Holomisa amongst others about the passing of the King:
Politician Mmusi Maimane took to Twitter to convey his condolences to the King’s family.
I would like to extend my condolences to the family of the late King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu.
I would also like to extend my condolences to the entire Zulu kingdom. May his soul Rest In Peace. #RipKingGoodwillZwelithini pic.twitter.com/TYYdKQw6eV
— Mmusi Maimane (@MmusiMaimane) March 12, 2021
May his soul Rest In Peace. #kingzwelithini pic.twitter.com/azxeGR8aya
— Mmusi Maimane (@MmusiMaimane) March 12, 2021
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has also paid his respects to the late King saying he admired him greatly.
I’m deeply saddened by the passing of King Goodwill Zwelithini.
I had the honour of knowing the King, and recall a visit he paid to my factory when I was a younger entrepreneur. I admired him greatly.
My condolences to his family, and the Zulu Nation.
May he rest in peace ? pic.twitter.com/O1lW4d0YyH
— Herman Mashaba (@HermanMashaba) March 12, 2021
The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa has described the King, as an exemplary leader whose guidance was well-sought after. CONTRALESA’s Secretary-General Zolani Mkiva says the news is saddening.
“One of the giants of the institution of royalty in Africa has passed on. An exemplary leader in terms of personifying the dignity of the institution of traditional leadership. It’s really saddening to hear him passing at the age of 72 because we were looking forward to him giving guidance as he was one of the most senior in SA.”
