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Today, Friday, the 12th of March 2021, the African National Congress learned with sadness of the untimely passing of Zulu Monarch, His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini Ka Bhekuzulu. Isilo Samabandla has been in hospital for some time.

King Zwelithini was a courageous leader who did not only care about the well being of his people but rather the nation as a whole. He took centre stage in calling for an end to politically motivated killings which had resulted in unwarranted loss of innocent lives, especially in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces.  During intense political violence between ANC and IFP, King Zwelithini was seen criss-crossing South Africa encouraging people to resort to peaceful and non-violent means of resolving conflict.

King Zwelithini will be remembered for his tough stance on HIV/AIDS, challenging the international community to avail more funding against the pandemic and South African government to provide medication to the people.

As part of demonstrating patriotism, in December 2020, His Majesty signed a pledge to fight the scourge of Gender-Based Violence, child abuse and human trafficking as the country observed 16 Days of Activism.

The ANC applauds the progressive role played by King Zwelithini in the development of his nation and for upholding the culture and traditions of the Zulu Nation.

King Zwelithini appreciated and understood how institutions of traditional leadership should co-exist with systems of constitutional democracy, an example worth emulating by other traditional leaders.

The ANC sends its heartfelt  condolences to the royal family and the Zulu Nation. May they find solace in knowing that their loss is shared by the entire nation.

Lala ngoxolo Silo Samabandla wonke, Mdlokombane, Ngangezwe Lakhe, Bhejane Phuma esiqiqiwini.

Issued by The ANC