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Goodwill King Zwelithini. (Photo by Jabulani Langa)
- King Goodwill Zwlithini died on Friday morning after hospitalization.
- The king of the Zulu nation was in the hospital after his blood sugar became a concern.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his deepest condolences to the family, the Zulu nation, and the province.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a special Category 1 official funeral for the late King Goodwill Zwelithini of KwaZulu-Natal.
News24 reported Friday that Zwelithini had died in hospital after being ill for about a month.
There were concerns about the 72-year-old man’s blood sugar levels and he received ICU treatment when he became unstable.
Tributes have been pouring in since the news of the king’s death on Friday morning.
READ | Political leaders express shock and sadness at the death of King Goodwill Zwelithini
Ramaphosa has authorized the National Flag to be hoisted at half mast at all flag stations in the country from Saturday until the night of the funeral.
In a statement, the presidency said the funeral will include ceremonial items provided by the South African National Defense Force.
“In terms of Chapter 1.5.2 (a) of the State, Official and Provincial Funeral Policy Manual, the President may designate the funeral of a distinguished person as a Special Official Funeral.
“President Ramaphosa has expressed his sincere condolences to the Royal Family, the Zulu nation and the people of KwaZulu-Natal and beyond, for whom the Ingonyama was an important symbol of history, culture and heritage.”
Details of Zwelithini’s funeral will be announced in due course, the presidency said.
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