Lungani Zungu
AmaZulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has received praise for not using his powerful seat to garner support for any political party ahead of next week’s all-important municipal polls.
Despite his cosy relationship with IFP founder and President Emeritus Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi, King Misuzulu has not publicly endorsed his party ahead of the 1 November elections.
He has not come out in favour of the ANC, despite having many known allies in the ruling party, including former president Jacob Zuma’s son, Duduzane.
Zoza Shongwe, an author and historian, lauded King Misuzulu.
“He is showing that he understands his responsibility as a leader of such a huge nation. He should remain non-partisan all the time to avoid entering a space that might lead to an undesired result.”
Shongwe said King Misuzulu has to lead millions of the AmaZulu without entering the political arena.
However, the road to the local government has not been without any controversy which has linked King Misuzulu to the campaigns.
The IFP axed one of its employees who had been accused of putting up a social media campaign post which featured an image of the king’s face.
The party later apologised to the king over the incident and took down the post.
Prince Mbonisi Zulu, the spokesperson of the royal household, urged parties not to use the king’s likeness when campaigning.
“The king remains non-partisan. Even the late King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu had always been non-partisan.”
King Misuzulu took over the reins after his father King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu, and his mother Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu died in March and April, respectively.
However, some members of the royal household challenged his rise to the throne.
The matter is currently in court.
Meanwhile, there is another royal who cannot stake such claims of political neutrality. AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo urged the nation to rally behind the EFF after party leader Julius Malema promised to buy him a car.
