- King Misuzulu cancels attending the Soweto gender-based violence event after security services warn him about a nearby incident under investigation.
- Prince Thulani Zulu says King Misuzulu respects the warning but still supports the Unite Initiative campaign led by the Goodman Foundation.
People expecting to see King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at a gender-based violence campaign in Soweto were left disappointed after he pulled out over safety fears.
The King was meant to speak at the Unite Initiative event at Elka Stadium in Johannesburg. The campaign is organised by the Goodman Foundation of Gugu Xaba and was planned for Thursday.
But only hours before the event started, the King’s Presidential Protection Unit warned him about a recent incident reported near the venue. His team said it was not safe for him to attend until the investigation is finished.
Prince Thulani Zulu of the eZibindini Royal House said the King followed the advice. He said the King respected the judgment of the state security services and would not take risks with his safety.
Prince Thulani said although King Misuzulu stayed away, he still supported the fight against gender-based violence. He said the King believed in unity, community action and protecting women and children. These are also the goals of the Unite Initiative.
This is not the first time the King has stepped back from an event in Gauteng because of security fears. He also withdrew from the Umkhosi weLembe commemoration in Ekurhuleni after former prime minister Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi warned him to stay in his hotel for his own safety.
The Soweto organisers say they understand the decision. But for many people who hoped to hear from King Misuzulu in person, the late cancellation brings deep disappointment.
Pictured above: King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.
Image source: Zulu Royal Kingdom
