JOHANNESBURG: Former South African president Jacob Zuma is mourning the unexpected death of his 25 year old son, Vusi Nhlakanipho Zuma, who died after a short illness. He is believed to have been in a private hospital where he passed away on Sunday. The Zuma family have indicated a representative will “advise on any further details” in due course. Their spokesperson Vukile Mathabela confirmed the tragic news, adding that other details are private for now.
Vusi Nhlakanipho Zuma was the youngest of five children born to the ANC leader and Kate Mantsho‚ who committed suicide. He was born in 1993. His siblings include well-known twins Duduzane and Duduzile. American civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson was among those who sent their condolences to the family. He tweeted, “Sending prayers for and condolences to former South African president Jacob Zuma and family on the loss of their son, Vusi Nhlakanipho Zuma. RIP.”
Very little was known about the young Zuma. Zelda la Grange, former aide of the late president Nelson Mandela expressed devastation at the news. She tweeted, “Oh my word. This is terrible. Vusi was a beautiful child. We saw him grow up.” She added that he had crossed her mind just a few days earlier. La Grange said that Vusi had attended the Sacred Heart College in Johannesburg.
