Durban - The highly anticipated coronation of King Misuzulu KaZwelithi has been postponed due to the devastating floods that claimed over 400 lives in KwaZulu-Natal.
The coronation, which was expected to draw thousands of dignitaries, including many from overseas, was set for May 28 in Nyokeni Palace, Nongoma.
Making an announcement, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu monarch said as the nation mourns the loss of lives, homes and property due to the devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, the focus must be on healing, rebuilding and restoring what has been lost.
Buthelezi said after a discussion with President Cyril Ramaphosa it was agreed that a new date should be set.
“In this time of tremendous pain and grief, His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has expressed his strong conviction that the celebration of his coronation should be postponed.
“At his request, I conveyed this to His Excellency President Ramaphosa on Wednesday afternoon. That evening, before he had even had sight of my letter, the President called to express the very same sentiments.
“Today the president has formally responded to my letter, confirming his agreement with His Majesty’s decision and indicating that a new date should be discussed, beyond May 2022.
“After consultation with His Majesty the King, the royal family and the president, a date for the coronation will be announced accordingly,” Buthelezi said.
On behalf of the king, Buthelezi conveyed condolences to families who lost their loved ones during the floods.
Buthelezi also announced that the royal family was also mourning the loss of family members who died during the floods
“We express our deepest sympathy to every family that has suffered a loss. The royal family itself is in mourning at the loss of Princess Bonakele Jileka and her children Yenzokuhle and Elimiyo, as well as the children of Princess Sindisiwe Jileka, Akhile and Zekhethelo. HRH Princess Lindiwe ka Johnson ka Tshelendoda ka Dinuzulu lost all five members of her family when their house collapsed.
“This unspeakable tragedy is one among many that has brought us to our knees. May God Almighty heal our broken hearts,” he said.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE