Celani Sikhakhane
A senior member of the Osuthu Royal Council and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s biggest supporter was shot and killed in an ambush soon after attending the annual Zulu reed dance ceremony.
Dr Dumsani Khumalo, 76, was killed on Saturday night on his way home after leaving the eNyokeni palace.
Khumalo had dinner with the guests only a few hours before he left the festival.
Royal family spokesperson Prince Thulani Zulu told Scrolla.Africa that they are shocked and saddened by the murder.
“We heard the news of his murder on Saturday night while we were still at the royal palace. He was killed at the gate of his home,” said Thulani.
Khumalo was once heckled at the funeral of the late Zulu regiment leader Mgilija for recognizing Misuzulu as the king.
The killing of Khumalo comes after threats of bloodshed that were made by Prince Simakade kaZwelithini’s faction who wrote to Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube demanding that the reed dance be cancelled or there would be a confrontation and bloodshed.
The threats led to Police Minister Bheki Cele deploying police from units from other provinces to guard the reed dance ceremony.
Police confirmed that Khumalo was killed in the Bhethani area only 50 metres from his homestead.
“He was ambushed and fatally shot by unknown suspects. The shooting started soon after he turned towards his homestead from the main road,” police said.
“The motive for his killing is unknown at this time. A number of empty cartridges were picked up and three bullet holes were found in the driver’s door and window of the vehicle.”
