Celani Sikhakhane
Zulu regiments leader Zihogo “Mgilija” Nhleko has died following a short illness, his family has confirmed.
Nhleko passed away at Nkonjeni Hospital in Mahlabathini at 5 p.m. on Monday, his wife told Scrolla.Africa.
He suffered a stroke a few months ago and last month was admitted to hospital with the flu.
One member of the family, who described herself as Umakoti Omncane of the Nhleko family, told Scrolla.Africa that they are still in shock and are waiting for other family members to arrive and be by Nhleko’s side at his home in Nongoma.
Nhleko was affectionately known as Induna Yamabutho, the name of his role of Commander in the Zulu regiments.
He rose to fame during the funeral of King Zwelithini, when he made it clear that no Covid-19 regulation would stop the regiments from honouring the late king. He led the hundreds of regiments to pay their last respects.
He was a close associate of King Zwelithini, accompanying him on a trip to Wales in the United Kingdom.
Never afraid to speak his mind, Nhleko and Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi had a highly publicised war of words in July after Nhleko led the Zulu regiments in a pledge of support for former President Jacob Zuma in Nkandla.
Following the argument, Nhleko was stripped of his role of Induna Yamabutho.
Injeje yabeNguni’Phumlani Mfeka, a supporter of Nhleko, wrote “He remains the most highly respected Zulu Regiment Commander of this generation the world over.”
Image source: MRNews
