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The Zulu Nation has been devastated to learn of the murder of Mr Dumisani Blasius Khumalo, Chairperson of the Osuthu Royal Council and a senior advisor to His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, King of the Zulu Nation. On behalf of His Majesty the King and the Royal Family, I wish to express my deepest condolences to the Khumalo family on this shocking and painful loss.

Mr Khumalo was a man of great integrity and wisdom. His guidance on complex matters was invaluable to the Council and to the King. I personally held him in the highest esteem, and cannot imagine how anyone could perpetrate such a despicable act of violence against a man who was so well respected and who served with such dignity. 

It is extremely painful that this criminal act marred an otherwise successful Reed Dance Ceremony. It must be said however that there is no nexus between Mr Khumalo's murder and tensions within the Zulu Royal Family. It would be irresponsible to create the impression that these matters are related.

Indeed, we feel hurt that any statement could be issued on the murder of Mr Khumalo before his family had even been informed. This is utterly disrespectful to the bereaved family.

In this time of heightened pain and sorrow we ask that consideration be given to what is fit and proper, before what is expedious.

Our prayers are with the Khumalo Family, with His Majesty and with the Osuthu Royal Council, which has lost an irreplaceable leader.

Issued by Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi