A shocking incident unfolded at the unveiling of a statue of King Shaka kaSenzangakhona on Thursday, 7 November, when a woman, believed to be a guest, attempted to attack President Cyril Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.
Story Summary:
- A woman disrupted the unveiling of the King Shaka statue, attempting to reach President Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu on stage.
- Eyewitnesses report the woman demanded to speak to the Zulu monarch before being restrained by security.
- The incident adds to tensions within the Zulu royal family over the ongoing battle for the throne.
Watch: Woman intercepted before she attacks Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu
The statue, located at King Shaka International Airport near Durban, honours the famed Zulu king, and the event was attended by high-profile guests, including the current Zulu monarch and South Africa’s president.
Eyewitnesses recount that the woman disembarked from a shuttle transporting attendees from the airport to the ceremony site.
She approached the stage where Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu were seated, then climbed the steps and attempted to reach them.
According to those at the scene, she appeared determined and shouted that she needed to speak directly to King Misuzulu.
It remains unclear whether her grievance was directed toward the monarch, the president, or both.
A bystander described the scene:
“She was barefoot, wearing a long cream dress and sunglasses, and seemed agitated.”
Security personnel quickly intercepted her, but the woman reportedly resisted, even striking two officers before being restrained and escorted out by members of the VIP protection unit.
Security on high alert amid Zulu royal family disputes
The tense incident comes amid ongoing succession disputes within the Zulu royal family, adding to the complexities surrounding King Misuzulu’s position on the throne.
Since the passing of his father, King Goodwill Zwelithini, in 2021, multiple legal challenges have emerged as members of the royal family question the legitimacy of Misuzulu’s succession.
Prince Simakade Zulu, King Misuzulu’s half-brother, has legally contested his claim, supported by certain royal family members.
This rivalry has amplified public interest and added layers of tension to events involving the current Zulu king.
President Ramaphosa formally recognised Misuzulu as the Zulu monarch, even presiding over his coronation in 2022.
This endorsement has not been without controversy, as some royal members believe the president’s support may have influenced the succession in Misuzulu’s favour.
The official recognition has intensified debates, with opponents questioning the impartiality of Ramaphosa’s involvement in royal matters.
