[imagesource: Jabulani Langa]

On March 12, King Goodwill Zwelithini (above) passed away at the age of 72, having been admitted to hospital, where he died of COVID-19-related complications.

King Goodwill ascended to the throne in 1971, after the death of his father, King Cyprian Bhekuzulu kaSolomon. He reigned under the traditional leadership subsection of South Africa’s constitution as King of the Zulu nation.

After King Goodwill died, the obituaries across the South African media landscape were a mixed bag.

Some tribute to him as the longest-reigning amaZulu King, while City Press editor-in-chief Mondli Makhanya called him out for what he said was his “willingness to lend his powerful position to the service of the National Party during apartheid”. He also called him a “useful idiot”.

This, per News24, was not met well by his family. Prince Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi replied to the articles in a statement.

“We have been pierced to the heart by the vulgar lies splashed across two national newspapers by the editor of City Press and in the obituary of the Sunday Times. His Majesty the King has not yet been laid to rest. Yet, while the nation grieves, these journalists have taken it upon themselves to ridicule our pain. One cannot fathom such sadistic cruelty.”

IOL reports that following the King’s death, President Cyril Ramaphosa granted him a state funeral, but reports concerning his funeral have been contradictory from various members of the Royal Family.

The first announcement came from Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi in his capacity as the traditional prime minister of the Zulu nation, who said that the King left very specific instructions.

“He said he would like to be buried at night and only by men. So we agreed with the royal family that his wish should be granted. And that will happen in private,” Buthelezi announced.

Buthelezi said that the burial would happen on Wednesday and the state funeral would be turned into a memorial service on Thursday.

Then another announcement came through from the Palace saying something different.

“At this stage, we wish to announce that His Majesty will be planted on the 18th March 2021. Regarding the Planting of His Majesty, we will follow traditional Zulu customs which will be attended by Amakhosi and other traditional structures. Covid-19 protocols will be followed. We are encouraged by messages in acknowledgement of the importance of fulfilling our traditional Zulu customs in line with the teachings of His Majesty,” he said.

Buthelezi then issued a statement and said he was taken aback by the press conference because it was not sanctioned within the Royal Family. He has insisted that the burial take place on Wednesday.

“… We are advised that a press conference has been called at the Royal Palace, where I am right now, “on behalf of the Royal Family”, yet the family has not been made aware of this. It is unfortunate that in a time such as this, there will be differences of opinion on how matters should be handled, despite clear protocols which are known to all,” Buthelezi said in a statement countering the press conference.

So if you came here hoping for a confirmed time and date, you are undoubtedly disappointed.

[source:news24&iol]