By Sifiso Sibandze
Following news of his death, music industry colleagues, friends, fans and numerous political parties have paid tribute to AKA, real name Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, remembering the ineradicable mark he left in the music industry in South Africa, regionally and globally.
AKA was killed in a shooting at a popular night spot on Durban’s Florida Road on Friday night. The South African rapper’s death was confirmed by his parents, Tony and Lynn, in a statement shared on social media on Saturday morning.
“To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, most importantly, father to his beloved daughter, Kairo. To many, he was AKA, SUPAMEGA, BHOVA and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved, and he gave love in return”.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture stated on Twitter, mourning his death. “One of the most patriotic artists who flew the South African flag high where ever he went”.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda condemned the senseless killing of Forbes in a statement on Saturday morning.
“The news of AKA’s passing comes as a shock to us as we were looking forward to seeing him perform at the Durban All White Concert at the Durban ICC next week on Saturday. We call upon members of the community who might have witnessed the incident to share information with the police”, said Mayor Kaunda.
Kaunda went on to say that the inhumane killing of the rapper on a popular nightlife street would impact Durban’s hottest nightspots image that the Municipality and its partners have worked hard over the years to build.
“The freedom of our residents is threatened each time a person is killed or robbed. We implore the police to be firm and to act decisively in rooting out rouge elements that are behind the killing of innocent people. We remain committed to intensifying the fight against crime,” added Mayor Kaunda.
Rocked to my core at the news of Kiernan’s death. Though our lives went in different directions, and we hadn’t spoken in years, I’ll never forget the times we shared making music. He was destined for greatness from then. Deepest sympathies with Uncle Tony, Aunt Lynn and Steffan. pic.twitter.com/j1JrLIhtRu
— Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh (@SizweMpofuWalsh) February 11, 2023
The Mayor then conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Forbes family, friends, and fans. Statements by political parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters and the Democratic Alliance, African National Congress, and National Freedom Party were shared on social media, mostly on Twitter.
“Crime in South Africa is out of control, and the assassination of civilians has become a norm. AKA was an indisputable talent, and the music industry has lost an innovative artist. May His Soul Rest In Peace”, tweeted the EFF.
The DA wrote: “The DA mourns the tragic death of the award-winning rapper, Kiernan Forbes, known as AKA. We send our heartfelt condolences to the Forbes family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. The loss of AKA is felt by many who have been touched by his music”.
The DA further asked anyone with knowledge or information to assist the police in their search for the perpetrators. In a statement, the National Freedom Party (NFP) expressed that it is deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic murder of the award-winning rapper.
“This heartbreaking loss of life is just one example of the unacceptable and outrageous surge in the number of murders in South Africa. As such, we demand swift and decisive action from President Cyril Ramaphosa to bring an end to this crisis and restore hope to our communities through effective leadership and policing,” said NFP Leader in Parliament, Ahmed Munzoor Shaik Emam.
The loss of a young life is always difficult to comprehend and accept, particularly under such tragic circumstances💔 We lost so much talent and endless possibilities💔 Go well @akaworldwide, thank you for the music❤️#RIPAKA #RipLegend pic.twitter.com/HWWcpGd8yw
— FabAcademic 🏳️🌈 (@FabAcademic) February 11, 2023
The ANC said in a statement: “The African National Congress is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of renowned rap music star Kiernan Forbes, popularly known as AKA. We are dismayed that such a bright star has been dimmed at its dawn. AKA served as an inspiration in the development trajectory of South Africa and the continent. He flew the South African flag high on the global music stage, swooping a number of prestigious awards in the country and abroad. We shall always remember him as that opinionated radical who stood at the forefront of the cultural revolution — against all odds. We wish to extend our condolences to his mother Lynn Forbes and daughter Kairo Owethu Forbes as well as the rest of the family, friends, and the creative sector. May they find solace in knowing that their grief is shared by the entire nation. The South African music industry is indeed poorer without AKA. We call on law enforcement to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators of this brutal murder are brought to book. To him, we say you’ve run your victory lap and your season has ended. Hands up for your victory lap!”
#RIPAKA an address on how AKA & Tibz died 😢 Police confirmed that they duo got shot while having dinner at a restaurant in Morningside Florida Road Durban as they were leaving the restaurant to their vehicle,2x unknown Men opened fire 🔫 on them,killing them instantly 😳 pic.twitter.com/IJu3eCPlQK
— Lady_L (@_LeratoMabuza) February 11, 2023
