Tributes pour in following passing of Zulu King Zwelithini

Chairperson of the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders, Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza says the news was very painful to receive.

“He was a unifier; he was the one to ensure that there was unity among traditional leaders. This is a tragedy; we hope God will assist us. He played an important role in ensuring there was peace in this country and peace in this country,” Chiliza said.

The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa Secretary-General, Zolani Mkiva says King Zwelithini was an exceptional leader.

“He was a pioneer for the development of people. He was a great farmer. He leaves a great void, we were still looking up to him for wisdom, he was a wise leader,” Mkiva said.

Nhlakanipho Ntombela, who's with the ANC in KZN, says they're deeply hurt by the news. 

"He laid a solid foundation in uniting the Zulu Nation and the people KwaZulu-Natal as a whole. To the Zulu Royalty and Zulu nation as a whole, akwehlanga lungehlanga, uHlangalomhlabathi luphumulile." 

The DA's Zwakele Mncwango says the king stood for unity for all nations.

"We will remember him by making sure that all racial groups in KZN are being recognised, he was a very influential person in the entire country. Uhambekahle Hlangalomhlabathi."

IFP leader Velenkosini Hlabisa says Zwelithini will be remembered for his work in fighting against poverty. 

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"He will be remembered for his contribution in building the Zulu Nation and preserving and uploading the culture of the Zulu people and he will also be remembered for his role in reviving the cultures that promoted and restored dignity to the Zulu people." 

The King was 72-years-old.