Former Inkatha Freedom Party leader Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi has announced the news of the sad passing of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini ka Bhekuzulu, King of the Zulu Nation on Friday at the age of 72.

It had recently been reported that the Zulu King had not been well in the past few weeks.

Buthelezi said while the Zulu King was still in hospital, his health took a turn for the worse and he subsequently passed away in the early hours of this morning.

On behalf of the Royal Family, he thanked the nation for their continued prayers and support in this most difficult time.