Ramaphosa Challenges Zulu King Recognition Ruling at SCA

(The Post News)– President Cyril Ramaphosa has approached the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) to challenge a High Court ruling that set aside his recognition of Misuzulu kaZwelithini as King of the Zulu nation.

The Pretoria High Court ruled in 2023 that Ramaphosa’s recognition of King Misuzulu was “unlawful and invalid”, following a legal challenge brought by the king’s older brother, Prince Simakade Zulu. Prince Simakade argued that the identification process did not follow due procedure and lacked transparency.

In its ruling, the court also ordered the president to establish an investigative committee to review the nomination process that led to Misuzulu’s appointment as heir to the Zulu throne.

Now seeking to overturn the ruling, Ramaphosa has filed an appeal at the SCA, insisting that his decision was in line with both constitutional and traditional protocols.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya explained that following appropriate consultation, the president took action within the parameters of the “Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act”. Furthermore, the presidency contends that a culturally significant procedure that was conducted in good faith was undercut by the High Court’s incorrect rulings.

The recognition of King Misuzulu in 2022 came just weeks before the traditional coronation ceremony (Ukungena esibayeni) held at the KwaKhangelamankengane Royal Palace in Nongoma. The ceremony was attended by thousands, including government officials, traditional leaders, and international guests.

Prince Simakade, however, has maintained that the royal family were divided on the succession and that proper channels were not followed. In a statement issued after the High Court ruling, Prince Simakade said that the matter was “not about politics” but about honoring customs and making sure proper process is observed.

The legal battle has exposed deep divisions within the Zulu royal family and sparked national debate over the balance between customary law and constitutional authority.

On Wednesday, Ramaphosa’s legal team will argue before the SCA to reinstate the king’s recognition. Traditional leaders, Zulu regiments, and supporters of King Misuzulu are expected to be present at the proceedings in a show of solidarity.

Meanwhile, according to Prince Mangoshuthu Buthelezi, the late traditional prime minister to the Zulu monarch, Misuzulu is already in power and has the support of the majority. He had urged the Zulu family to resolve the matter “swiftly” to uphold the honour of the AmaZulu nation.

The SCA’s ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications, not just for the Zulu monarchy, but for the broader role of traditional leadership in a democratic South Africa.