Durban - Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and Nation Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi said the Zulu nation was devastated to learn of the murder of Dr Dumisani Khumalo.
Khumalo, chairperson of the Osuthu Royal Council and a senior adviser to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, was shot dead on Saturday.
It is alleged that Khumalo was returning from the Royal Reed Dance ceremony at eNyokeni Palace on Saturday when he was shot at his home.
Buthelezi expressed his “deepest condolences to the Khumalo family on this shocking and painful loss”.
He added that 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.”
Buthelezi said it was 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.”
Buthelezi added that they felt hurt that any statement could be issued on the murder of 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 expeditious. Our prayers are with the Khumalo family, with His Majesty and with the Osuthu Royal Council, which has lost an irreplaceable leader.”