Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has arrived at the KwaKhethomthandayo Royal Palace in Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal to pay his respects to the late AmaZulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu.
Malema’s visit follows visits from some senior politicians and local mourners.
EFF leadership has arrived at the Zulu Royal Palace.
The leadership is here to send its deepest condolences on the passing of Isilo Samabandla, King Goodwill Zwelithini. #EFFAtZuluRoyalPalace pic.twitter.com/RK45tk6Uix
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) March 16, 2021
The AmaZulu King, the longest-serving monarch in the history of the Zulu nation, died on Friday from COVID-19 complications.
The EFF is here to pay tribute and send its condolences on the passing of King Goodwill Zwelithini.
King Zwelithini was the longest reigning King of the Zulu nation in the history of its existence. #EFFAtZuluRoyalPalace pic.twitter.com/4C0AD40JjD
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) March 16, 2021
He is expected to be laid to rest on Wednesday night in a private ceremony.
Meanwhile, spokesperson of the Zulu Royal family, Prince Thulani Zulu, says they closely guard the details around the burial.
“The body will be fetched and will come to Kwakhetha I can end there. Because the burial of a person like the King is the secret of the family. It’s quite private. This thing of COVID-19 is not today’s thing.”
“It started long ago because we can’t run away from the prescribed restriction of the COVID-19 regulations. People will be watching television and will see what is happening. We are sorry that we all want to be here but we can’t due to COVID-19,” says Zulu.
Magashule arrives at Kwakhethomthandayo Royal Palace
African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Ace Magashule has shared his views on the importance of traditional leadership in South Africa.
He was speaking on his arrival at the Kwakhethomthandayo Royal Palace in Nongoma.
Magashule says the ANC was established with the blessings of Amakhosi.
Former eThekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede and former provincial Premier Willies Mchunu are accompanying Magashule.
Meanwhile, Amabutho of the late King are expected to be part of tomorrow’s private burial.
“Amabutho (Zulu regiments) will be carrying the King right up to the palace because they have an important role. In fact, when it comes to the funeral, although it is [a] secrete, but Amabutho form part of the funeral of the majesty, everything is performed by Amabutho,” adds Zulu.