South African rapper, Cassper Nyovest, has been keeping a low profile on social media since the tragic death of his rival and fellow rapper, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, better known as AKA. The two rappers were initially friends, with Cassper even admitting that AKA had been an inspiration to him. However, their friendship soured over time, and they had several public spats on social media and in person.

Despite their turbulent history, Cassper Nyovest was saddened by the news of AKA’s sudden passing. In a statement released earlier this week, Cassper expressed his condolences to AKA’s family, friends, and fans. “My sincere condolences go out to Kiernan and Tebello’s families, colleagues, and fans. May their souls rest in peace, and their legacies be celebrated. May the Good Lord be with all of you at this sad time,” he said.

Cassper also urged his fans to send love to AKA’s fans during this difficult time. “To all my fans, please send all your love to the Megacy and family. The nation is mourning, and could use more love and less evil,” he added.

While some fans questioned whether Cassper would attend AKA’s funeral and memorial services, he revealed that he would not be able to attend due to work commitments that have taken him out of the country. “Unfortunately, I’ll be out of the country for work, but if I was around, I would’ve gone. I would’ve gone to the funeral too,” he explained.

Despite their troubled relationship, Cassper acknowledged the positive moments they shared, and he respected AKA’s contribution to the hip-hop industry. “No matter how you look at it, me and Kiernan shared a lot of great moments together, and he contributed to my industry, so I have to pay my respects,” he said.

AKA was tragically murdered on February 10 in Florida Rd, Durban, after a night out with friends. His family issued a statement expressing their deep sadness and confirming his passing. “To us, Kieran Jarryd Forbes was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, and most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kaito. To many, he was AKA, SUPERMEGA, BHOVA, and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by,” they said.

The rapper’s burial services will take place this weekend, with his memorial being live-streamed on his AKA Worldwide YouTube channel on Friday. A private ceremony will be held on Saturday to lay him to rest. Notably, Murdah Bongz will also be absent from the funeral and memorial services, as the Forbes family stated that it was due to cultural restrictions. “We’d also like to acknowledge our extended family, the Mohosanas, for their unwavering support during this time, as Bongani Mohosana will be in absentia at the memorial and funeral due to observing cultural protocol,” they added.

The death of AKA has rocked the South African music industry and left his fans and loved ones in mourning. Many fellow artists have paid tribute to the late rapper, highlighting his contributions to the industry and his talent. While Cassper Nyovest and AKA had a complex relationship, it is clear that Cassper still had respect for his fellow rapper and wished to pay his respects.