King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s royal household has distanced itself from the controversial R10 donation plan, clarifying that the King did not endorse the proposal. Image: iMzansi.
(The Post News) – The Zulu royal household has formally distanced itself from a controversial proposal despite the royal council’s defense. The donation plan suggests that every Zulu person contribute R10 per month to support the affairs of the Zulu nation.
In a statement released on Wednesday, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s private office clarified that the King had “no knowledge” of the plan. The statement emphasized that the proposal also did not go through the King, the King’s Council, or any recognized structure of the royal family.
African historian Professor Jabulani Maphalala and Abantu Batho Congress founder Philani Mavundla, both advisors to the King, announced the proposal. They suggested the donation as a way to ensure the king’s financial independence after the KwaZulu-Natal Treasury confirmed it would not provide additional funding for this year’s annual Reed Dance ceremony, recently moved from the Enyokeni Royal Palace to Mashobeni Palace.
Many people on social media opposed the plan, sparking backlash against the royal household. King’s spokesperson, Prince Thulani Zulu, insists that the statement is to set the record straight on the royal household position. He also stressed the royal household’s respect for freedom of speech and recognized the public’s right to engage in debate.
Professor Maphalala confirmed that he and Mavundla had publicly suggested the plan for debate. According to Maphalala, after public engagement, the King will hold an imbizo with traditional leaders. There, they will discuss the matter further and take it to the king for his approval or rejection. He added, “Until then, no one is expected to pay anything.”
The Zulu royal council chairperson, Inkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi, has defended the proposal. He criticized those who politicized the plan, calling opponents anti-ubukhosi (against traditional leadership). Buthelezi said the contribution follows longstanding African traditions and mirrors offerings made in churches. He also clarified that the contributions would be voluntary.
Please share your thoughts, contact Lukhona via email: journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net
About the Author
