Buthelezi pays tribute to late princess Thembi
Amazulu prime minister Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has described the loss of senior royal member princess Thembi Zulu-Ndlovu as a great tragedy.
Buthelezi says through the years he and the late princess had a close relationship, who often supported him in his political philosophies.
The sister of the late King Goodwill Zwelithini-KaBekuzulu passed away on Friday in Newcastle.
Speaking at a media briefing in Ulundi on Saturday, Buthelezi said he was hurt when the princess sided with Prince Mbonisi, and questioned the ascension of King Misuzulu KaZwelithini to the throne.
"Having been so close for so many years, it was, therefore, devasting for me when she became involved in questioning the late king's chosen heir, after she joined Prince Mbonisi to question his majesty, it was painful for me. Nevertheless, I always had the greatest affection and respect for her.”
King Misuzulu KaZwelithini also expressed the shock and pain following the loss of his aunt, whom he saw last weekend at his traditional umembeso ceremony to his first wife in Newcastle.
"I did not know that would be the last time we see each other after a long time not seeing the princess, but the Lord made it possible. Not to dig deep into matters, we are at a loss. Yes, there were tensions between us, but we are family."
