Celani Sikhakhane
Three months have come and gone since the passing of Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu and his wives will now return to their daily duties.
And as part of the royal tradition, wild animals will be slaughtered to mark the end of the mourning period.
The cleansing ceremony started on Tuesday and the entire Royal Family participated but the main cleansing of the King’s wives will happen on Friday.
Princess Thembi Zulu Ndlovu said the men are expected to go into the mountains to hunt any wild animal that will be slaughtered at the palace so that the queens can stop wearing their mourning attire (inzilo).
The ceremony which will take place at the Khethomthandayo Royal Palace, coincides with the deadline set by the Pietermaritzburg High Court for the respondents to submit affidavits regarding Queen Sibongile’s claim. Queen Sibongile MaDlamini of Khethomthandayo is demanding 50% of the King’s Estate.
Royal spokesperson, Prince Thulani Zulu said all 17 respondents have to file their affidavits so that a court date can be set.
Some of the respondents who are cited in the founding affidavit of Queen Sibongile are Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, President Cyril Ramaphosa, Premier Sihle Zikalala, and King Zwelithini’s other wives including the late Queen Shiyiwe Mantfombi MaDlamini Zulu of the Khangelamankengana Royal Palace.
“In fact our queens were not willing to observe such a short mourning period but it was the king’s wish and they are heeding his call,” said Princess Thembi.
“As from now they will go back to their normal daily duties.”
She also revealed that 10 cows will be slaughtered to allow the King’s spirit to go to heaven and meet his ancestors.
