President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken steps to appeal the judgment of the High Court in Pretoria, which overturned the recognition of AmaZulu King Misuzulu KaZwelithini. The court, in its ruling on Monday, deemed Ramaphosa’s decision to recognize MisuZulu as the successor to the Zulu throne as both unlawful and invalid.
The court’s decision aligned with arguments presented by Prince Simakade and Mbonisi Zulu, asserting that proper procedures were not followed in the nomination and appointment of MisuZulu. As a result of the ruling, the president has been instructed to establish an investigative committee tasked with examining the alleged breaches of customary laws in the process.
Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the Presidency, stated, “Following a thorough examination of the judgment, the president is filing for leave to appeal. Throughout these legal proceedings, His Majesty King MisuZulu maintains his status as the recognized heir to the throne.”
This legal battle adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing matters related to the Zulu monarchy succession, prompting further scrutiny of the procedures followed in determining the rightful heir. The appeal process will be closely watched as it unfolds in the context of the broader cultural and legal considerations surrounding traditional leadership in South Africa.