The Zulu royal family has called for unity and reconciliation following a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) that affirmed King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the legitimate monarch of the Zulu nation.
In a unanimous decision on Monday, the SCA overturned a 2023 Pretoria High Court judgment that had declared President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recognition of the King as unlawful and ordered a fresh investigation into the traditional process that led to his appointment.
President Ramaphosa had officially recognised King Misuzulu on 16 March 2022, a move followed by a formal certificate handover ceremony at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
However, his recognition was challenged by Prince Mbonisi Zulu and Prince Simakade Zulu, who argued that Zulu customary law had not been followed in a royal family meeting held on 14 May 2021, which named Misuzulu as heir.
Court Finds Challenge Lacked Sufficient Basis
Delivering the SCA’s judgment, Deputy President of the SCA, Judge Dumisani Zondi, ruled that the applicants’ claims did not provide sufficient factual basis to justify a presidential investigation.
“An allegation must be such that it constitutes a sufficient basis for the conclusion that the identification of a king or queen was not done in terms of the customary law and customs of the traditional community concerned,” Judge Zondi said.
He disagreed with the High Court’s earlier finding that the President should have appointed an investigative committee solely based on the existence of dissent within the royal family.
Royal Family Welcomes Ruling, Urges ‘Return to the Kraal’
Spokesperson for the royal family and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, Prince Thulani Zulu, welcomed the ruling and said it was a confirmation of what the family had always maintained – that the king’s appointment was legitimate and conducted in full accordance with Zulu custom.
“Unity is paramount. We are one family, and the king calls for unity,” said Prince Thulani.
“We are appealing to our brothers and sisters who were on the sidelines to come back and unite with the entire family under the leadership of His Majesty, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.”
The royal family has invited dissenting factions, including those aligned with Prince Mbonisi and Prince Simakade, to “return to the kraal” and participate in building the Zulu nation together.
Next Steps and Reactions
Prince Simakade’s spokesperson, Prince Thokozani Zulu, could not be reached for comment at the time of publishing.
The SCA’s judgment is expected to end years of internal dispute and public uncertainty over succession in one of Africa’s most prominent monarchies.
The case has drawn national attention, with cultural, legal, and political ramifications that extend beyond the royal household.
While legal avenues may now be closed, the royal family emphasised that healing and unity must be the next priority.
“His Majesty is extending a hand to all Zulus – let us build the future together,” said Prince Thulani.
