King Shaka Day celebrations postponed
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Willies Mchunu has offered is condolences to King Goodwill Zwelithini following the passing of the king's son, Prince Butholesiwe Zulu.
The prince's death was announced by Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi on Friday in his capacity as Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch.
Buthelezi says Prince Butholesizwe succumbed to a long illness yesterday.
The premier's spokesperson, Thami Ngidi, says the Mchunu wishes to express his sadness and shock at the prince's passing.
"As the government of KwaZulu-Natal, the premier has said that they stand ready to be there for his majesty. As a matter of fact, the premier is now on his way to meet with His Majesty in order to convey his condolences personally."
Spokesperson for the Zulu Royal Household, Prince Thulani Zulu, says the King Shaka Day celebrations, which were scheduled to take place on Sunday, have been postponed to next weekend.
"We are deeply hurt by this tragedy. We never expected that such a thing would happen. So the king, as the person who hosts this prestigious ceremony of iLembe, won't be able to make it when there is such a tragedy at home."