In a surprise move, the SAPS have withdrawn the provision of VIP protection services to the Zulu royal palace amid tension following the announcement of the new Zulu King.
Concern for new Zulu Kingâs safety after SAPS withdraws VIP protection
Share
Nongoma - Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the Zulu nationâs traditional prime minister, has expressed concern for the safety of newly named King Misuzulu kaZwelithini after the South African Police Service (SAPS) started withdrawing its VIP protection.
The new king is the son of the late King Goodwill Zwelithini and the recently departed Zulu Queen Regent Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, sister to King Mswati III.
The SAPSâs midnight move comes despite clear indications that the new king is facing threats as his naming on Friday evening was vehemently challenged by some princes and he had to be whisked away to safety by assault rifle-wielding security personnel.
SAPS denies withdrawing protection services for new Zulu king 09 May 2021 - 13:23 King Misuzulu Zulu s SAPS keepers have not been withdrawn, says the office of police minister, Bheki Cele. Image: Sandile Ndlovu
The office of police minister Bheki Cele has moved to quash claims that all SAPS officials who had previously been deployed to the Zulu royal palace had been withdrawn.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Brig Vish Naidoo said: “Contrary to recent reports circulating in the mainstream and social media platforms, protection for the royal family in KwaZulu-Natal has not been withdrawn.
“It is rather unfortunate that information, of such protection being withdrawn, was made public without the SAPS leadership being approached for verification. The royal protection is informed by a threat assessment which is reviewed on an ongoing basis,” Naidoo added.
Buthelezi dares those mulling challenge over Prince Misuzulu to bring it on
By Sihle Mavuso
Nongoma - While saying the installation of Prince Misuzulu as the next King of the Zulu nation is done and dusted and calm has returned in the royal court following chaos in the past few weeks, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi says those who want to challenge this in court should do so.
He stressed that is he more than ready to face them, should they take that route.
Buthelezi said all cultural aspects of the new king’s ascension have been fulfilled, and all that remains is for the government to do the few remaining formalities.
Zulu royal court hosts memorial service after burying Queen Regent Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu iol.co.za - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from iol.co.za Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.