Royal Family: King Zwelithini's body will not lie in state
King Goodwill Zwelithini’s body will not lie in state at the Royal Palace.
The ‘difficult’, decision was made by the royal family who say it is based on the current regulations brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It would be unconscionable to allow His Majesty’s passing to become the cause of further deaths among His Majesty’s people,” a statement read.
When the late King’s father, King Cyprian Bhekuzulu ka Solomon, passed away in September 1968, the King was laid in state for several days while thousands of mourners came to pay their final respects.
“I therefore make an appeal, on behalf of the family, for mourners not to travel to Nongoma to pay their respects. It is vital that we avoid crowds gathering at this time, as this would place lives in jeopardy.“
“The Royal House itself has numbers in excess of what would be allowed in terms of regulations. It is therefore essential to impress upon people that the funeral will not be open for all to attend.”
The category one, special funeral will be broadcast live in South Africa.
“It would be unconscionable to allow His Majesty’s passing to become the cause of further deaths among His Majesty’s people,” a statement read.
When the late King’s father, King Cyprian Bhekuzulu ka Solomon, passed away in September 1968, the King was laid in state for several days while thousands of mourners came to pay their final respects.
“I therefore make an appeal, on behalf of the family, for mourners not to travel to Nongoma to pay their respects. It is vital that we avoid crowds gathering at this time, as this would place lives in jeopardy.“
“The Royal House itself has numbers in excess of what would be allowed in terms of regulations. It is therefore essential to impress upon people that the funeral will not be open for all to attend.”
The category one, special funeral will be broadcast live in South Africa.
An announcement on the date for the funeral will be communicated in due course.