Durban – AmaZulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has accused the South African government of sidelining him from major international events, including the SADC Summit held in Durban.
Addressing thousands of maidens and supporters at the annual Reed Dance, the King questioned why he was not invited to events hosted in KwaZulu-Natal.
“When there are events like the Mining Indaba and SADC in Durban, why am I not getting invited? As the custodian of this land, how can you come to my house to hold meetings without letting me know? That’s disrespectful.
The mighty Zulu King has spoken. No big events in KwaZulu-Natal will take place without him being invited. If politicians insist, they’ll banned from his land. Bayede Dawg! Bakijwayela ikaka laba. pic.twitter.com/hcUJP4tQMd
— Eagle View 🦅 (@StHonorable) September 6, 2026
“I had an official from Nigeria visiting me, and he asked, ‘Why is the South African government hiding you? Because when we are coming to South Africa, we are always hoping we will see the King. Just know that that’s working against the government. Stop hiding the King,” he said.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), however, said an invitation had been sent to the monarch.
Media Statement: King Misuzulu’s attendance at the SADC Summit
The Ministry confirms that an official invitation was duly extended to His Majesty, who was expected to attend the official banquet and the opening ceremony. To resolve any misunderstanding, the Ministry will engage…
— Chrispin Phiri 🇿🇦 (@Chrispin_JPhiri) September 6, 2026
“The Ministry confirms that an official invitation was duly extended to His Majesty, who was expected to attend the official banquet and the opening ceremony,” Dirco said.
“To resolve any misunderstanding, the Ministry will engage with the Private Office of the King to establish clarity on the matter.”
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
