AmaBhaca senior traditional leader and self-proclaimed King of AmaBhaca nation, Chief Madzikane II Thandisizwe Diko has died at the age of 43, following a short illness.
Diko was the husband of the suspended presidential spokesperson Khusela Diko.
His death was announced by KwaBhaca Great Kingdom in a statement.
“Ingonyama Madzikane II Diko died on Sunday, February 21 in East London following a short illness. iSizwe samaBhaca and the royal family are still coming to terms with this shocking and painful loss of our beloved father, son and husband and will make further announcements once the Kingdom has finalised the arrangements for the burial,” read the statement.
“We are humbled by the outpouring of support and grief since the news of His Majesty’s passing first became known. We thank you for keeping the family and iSizwe samaBhaca in your thoughts and prayers during this time of grief,” the statement further said.
According to News24, Khusela Diko took a leave of absence due to her husband’s involvement in a controversial R139 million personal protective equipment (PPE) tender last year with the Gauteng health department. The tender is alleged to have been inflated by 800%.
