King Goodwill Zwelithini died this morning at the age of 72. One of Africa’s longest reigning monarchs who was on the throne for at least 50 years was crowned King of the Zulu Nation of South Africa in 1971.
The monarch had been in hospital for about a week to treat diabetes. His blood sugar was said to have shot to unmanageable levels, eventually leading to his passing.
Meanwhile tributes are already pouring in from around the world for a very popular leader of his people who was part of the struggle to restore South Africa to a truly democratic nation. Despite modernity, he was able to balance the rich culture of his people with the dictates of changing times. King Goodwill Zwelithini was the eighth monarch of the Zulu nation.
Below is a statement by popular Zulu political figure, Mangothusu Buthelezi of the IFP on the monumental event:
“It is with the utmost grief that I announce the passing of King Goodwill Zwelithini. Tragically, while still in hospital, his Majesty’s health took a turn for the worse and he subsequently passed away in the early hours of this morning. On behalf of the Royal Family, we thank the nation for your continued prayers and support in this most difficult time.â€
