ALL roads lead to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, KZN, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially hand over the certificate of recognition to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini on Saturday, 29 October.
This will be a historical day as many people have not experienced such a ceremony because late king Zwelithini received his certificate in 1971, and went on to reign for about 50 years before he died last year.
At least 48 000 people, including international dignitaries, the royal house and family, government officials and residents are expected to attend.
The long-awaited ceremony was supposed to take place on 28 May, but was postponed after KZN was attacked by floods that killed many people. Then 13 August became the new date, but it was postponed again because Ramaphosa communicated directly with King Misuzulu behind traditional prime minister Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
Police Minister Bheki Cele inspected the readiness of cops for the ceremony on Friday, and ensured that they were ready.
Buthelezi said Saturday would be significant because it would allow millions of people to witness King Misuzulu’s recognition as the king.
“The stadium can safely hold 48 000 people without any risk of stampede or harm. Clearly many wish to attend this ceremony, but unless our people feel a particular compulsion to be there in person, for safety sake it would be better to watch proceedings on TV,” he said.
Zolani Mkiva, general secretary of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa, said they were excited about the event as it would teach people about culture.
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“The event is priceless and will encourage people to be proud of their cultures. We can’t wait to be part of the historical event,” he said.
King Misuzulu ascended the throne after the death of his father, king Zwelithini, and his mother, queen Mantfombi Dlamini Zulu, last year. After he was appointed on his mother’s will, who was the regent after the death of the king, throne deputes started and the family divided into two factions.
The dispute between king Misuzulu and Prince Simakade Zulu was intervened by Ramaphosa, who recognised Misuzulu as the king.
Later, prince Simakade was traditionally coronated as the king on the kraal while king Zwelithini’s brothers, Prince Mbonisi Zulu, prince Vulindlela Zulu and prince Mathuba Zulu, announced Prince Buzabazi kaZwelithini as the third throne contender.
