CULTURAL experts have indicated that the recent court ruling to set aside the government's recognition of King Misuzulu will not impact his status on the throne.
They said that historically, the government’s recognition of Zulu kings had always been secondary.
On Monday, Judge Norman Davis ruled that the recognition of King Misuzulu by the president was unlawful and invalid, and the recognition was set aside.
This decision came after King Misuzulu's half-brother, Prince Simakade Zulu and his uncle, Prince Mbonisi, challenged the president for the recognition of Misuzulu as the Zulu king.
Historical right of way in Zulu kingship
According to cultural experts, the government's recognition typically follows the Zulu nation's traditional installation of the king through ceremonies such as the Ukungena Esibayeni (Entering the Kraal) and the king's lion-killing ritual.
King Misuzulu underwent these traditional rites in August 2022 at KwaKhangelamankengane royal palace before officially being recognised by President Cyril Ramaphosa in October 2022.
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Cultural expert Professor Jabulani Maphalala said according to Zulu customs, King Misuzulu was already on the throne when he received the recognition certificate at Moses Mabhida Stadium in October 2022.
“The only difference in the judgment would be government benefits which might be suspended pending the new process by the president,” he said.
Impact on throne status
Another cultural expert, Dr Gugu Mazibuko, said the government was an affirmation of the Royal family’s decision, not an appointment or installation.
King Misuzulu’s spokesman, Prince Africa Zulu, said they noted the judgment, and were still studying it.
While Prince Simakade spokesman Prince Thokozani Zulu said they welcome the court judgment, because they said the president didn’t follow procedures to recognise King Misuzulu.
