Supreme Court Confirms Misuzulu as Legitimate Zulu King

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini

By Mpho Dube-Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

The Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled in favor of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, confirming his legitimacy as the King of the Zulu nation. The court's decision overturns a 2023 Pretoria High Court judgment that had set aside President Cyril Ramaphosa's recognition of Misuzulu as monarch.

The court's ruling is a significant victory for King Misuzulu, who has faced challenges to his legitimacy from within the royal family. The judgment confirms that the president's recognition of Misuzulu as king was lawful and that the necessary processes were followed in his identification.

In response to the court's decision, the Zulu royal family has called on "rebelling factions" within the family to "return to the kraal" and participate in the running of the kingdom under King Misuzulu's leadership. Prince Thulani Zulu, a spokesperson for the king, emphasized the importance of unity, saying, "We are one family, and the king calls for unity."

The Supreme Court's ruling provides clarity on the legitimacy of King Misuzulu's kingship and is expected to bring stability to the Zulu royal family. The court's decision also sets a precedent for the interpretation of customary law and traditions in the identification of traditional leaders.

As the Zulu nation looks to the future, the court's ruling provides an opportunity for the royal family to work together under King Misuzulu's leadership.