President Cyril Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu
By Nkosana Khumalo
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s legal team is set to defend his decision to officially recognise King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the AmaZulu monarch, following a Pretoria High Court ruling that declared the recognition unlawful and invalid. The matter is being heard by the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in Bloemfontein on 28 and 29 May 2025.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute over the Zulu throne began after the death of King Goodwill Zwelithini in March 2021. His son, Misuzulu kaZwelithini, was named successor and underwent the traditional Ukungena Esibayeni ceremony at the Kwakhangelamankengane Royal Palace in Nongoma. Subsequently, President Ramaphosa issued a certificate of recognition in October 2022, formalising Misuzulu’s position as king.
However, Prince Simakade Zulu, Misuzulu’s older brother, challenged the recognition, arguing that the identification process did not adhere to customary laws. In 2023, the Pretoria High Court ruled in Simakade’s favour, setting aside the president’s recognition and ordering the establishment of an investigative committee to examine the nomination process .
President Ramaphosa’s Appeal
President Ramaphosa is appealing the High Court’s decision, asserting that the recognition followed due process and was based on consultations with the royal family. His legal team contends that the president acted within the framework of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, which governs the recognition of traditional leaders in South Africa.
The appeal is being heard by the SCA, with proceedings scheduled for 28 and 29 May 2025. Zulu regiments, chiefs, and headmen are expected to attend the hearings, underscoring the significance of the matter within the Zulu community .
Perspectives from the Royal Family
King Misuzulu’s supporters maintain that his ascension to the throne was conducted in accordance with Zulu customs and traditions. Prince Thulani Zulu, a spokesperson for the royal family, stated that the throne is not under threat and that the king remains the rightful custodian of the Zulu nation. He emphasised that the legal challenge pertains to procedural issues rather than the legitimacy of Misuzulu’s kingship .
Conversely, Prince Simakade and his faction argue that the recognition process was flawed and did not comply with customary laws. They assert that proper procedures were not followed in nominating and recognising Misuzulu as king, warranting the High Court’s intervention.
Implications for the Zulu Nation
The outcome of the SCA appeal holds significant implications for the Zulu nation, the largest ethnic group in South Africa. The king plays a pivotal role in preserving Zulu cultural heritage, overseeing traditional leadership structures, and managing communal land through the Ingonyama Trust, which administers approximately 30% of KwaZulu-Natal’s land .
A ruling in favour of President Ramaphosa would reaffirm Misuzulu’s position as the recognised king, potentially bringing stability to the royal family. Conversely, upholding the High Court’s decision could lead to further disputes and necessitate a reevaluation of the succession process.
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