Durban – The Zulu king has joined countless others around the globe in mourning the death of British Queen Elizabeth II.
The death of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history and an icon instantly recognizable by billions of people worldwide, was announced by Buckingham Palace on Thursday. She died at the age of 96.
After the queen’s record-breaking 70-year rule, her eldest son, Charles, 73, immediately succeeds as king, initiating a new, less certain chapter for the royal family.
He will be known as Charles the Third.
In a statement released late Thursday evening on behalf of King Misuzulu KaZwelithini and the Zulu royal family, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the traditional prime minister of the Zulus, wished God’s consolation upon the British people.
“On behalf of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and the Zulu Royal Family, as well as on my own behalf as traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Monarch and nation, I express our heartfelt sympathies to the House of Windsor as we mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family and with Prime Minister Elizabeth Truss as she leads a nation in mourning.
“May God console the people of the United Kingdom and all those around the world who held Her Majesty the Queen in such high regard and affection.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to His Majesty the King, with whom I have enjoyed a cherished friendship for many years. I am honored to have been a guest of His Majesty and to have welcomed him at Ulundi.
Buthelezi, speaking on behalf of the Zulu royal family, stated, “I have always respected his principled commitment to his duty and his people.”
He had a particular message for the future British king and said that no words could soothe the British people in this time of despair.
“This was undoubtedly ingrained in him by his devoted mother, who devoted her entire life to serving her country.
“Her reign was both lengthy and exemplary. Her sincere concern and compassion for her people will be remembered forever.
“In this period of darkness, we express thanks for a magnificent queen who ruled with true dignity. There are no adequate words to express our grief.
“May Her Majesty rest peacefully and ascend in glory. ‘Long live the King,’ he continued.
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