By Celani Sikhakhane
- King Misuzulu’s office says there was no time to prepare properly for the royal appearance.
- PSL has come under fire for chaos around fan tickets and lack of communication with the royal office.
Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has pulled out of attending the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium — blaming chaos and poor planning by the Premier Soccer League.
The King’s private office said he had no choice but to withdraw because the PSL failed to respond or confirm arrangements for his safety, security and ceremonial protocols.
In a letter to PSL acting chief executive Mato Madlala, the King’s office said: “Royal engagements of this nature require a clear line of coordination and confirmation to allow for the necessary administration, security and ceremonial preparations. Given the absence of formal response or acknowledgement from your office, the private has assessed that adequate time no longer remains to implement required protocols and logistics to the standard expected of a royal appearance at a public event of this scale.”
The event, already overshadowed by fan frustration over ticketing issues, was thrown deeper into disarray by the last-minute royal no-show.
Thousands of fans who bought tickets online said they never received them. Others were told their tickets were not valid, despite having booking references and confirmations.
Some angry supporters even threatened to disrupt the match with violence. Police issued a strong warning that any attempts to cause trouble would not be tolerated.
The final sees Kaizer Chiefs take on Orlando Pirates in a clash that has been billed as the biggest derby in years.
Chiefs are chasing their first trophy in 10 years under new coach Nasreddine Nabi, and fans are desperate to break the dry spell.
Pirates, on the other hand, want to give outgoing coach José Riveiro a perfect send-off after three strong seasons at the helm — and beating their oldest rivals in a final would be the dream ending.
Pictured above: King Misuzulu kaZwelithini abruptly snubbed the Nedbank Cup Final at Moses Mabhida after PSL chaos.
Image source: KZN Office of the Premier
