Celani Sikhakhane
King Misuzulu KaZwelithini will perform the sacred kraal ritual without his traditional prime minister, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, because of Buthelezi’s age.
The ritual ceremony will be performed on Saturday to report to the Zulu royal ancestors that King Misuzulu has ascended to the throne after the passing of his father, King Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu.
In a statement, Buthelezi said that the ceremony is not about installing the king as others have assumed.
“I regret that due to my age and frailty I will not be able to accompany His Majesty as he walks from KwaKhangelamankengana Palace to the kraal as it is quite a distance. However, I look forward to witnessing the ceremony and participating in the pledge of loyalty,” he said.
He also explained that only regiments and selected members of the royal family will be allowed to enter the kraal with Misuzulu, due to its restricted size.
He also revealed that members of the Swati royal family will also accompany His Majesty Indlulamithi (the Giraffe), as Misuzulu has been affectionately known since he took over the throne.
Misuzulu slaughtered one giraffe at his Phongola Royal Palace of eMachobeni last week.
His father was known as uBhejane Phuma Esiqiwini (the Rhino).
The sacred kraal ritual will be performed on Friday. The main ceremony will follow on Saturday and it will be open to the public.
The Zulu nation from all walks of life are expected to descend to Nongoma on Friday.
Some taxi bosses have stated that they will provide free transportation from Gauteng to Nongoma.
Hotels, guest houses and BnBs are all full in many parts of northern KZN, with visitors attending the ceremony.
Buthelezi said that the ceremony will be followed by the coronation, to be held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, on a date yet to be announced.
Scrolla.Africa understands that Misuzulu suggested the 23 September which will coincide with his birthday and the commemoration of his great-great-grandfather King Shaka.
