By Celani Sikhakhane
The 40th anniversary of the Reed Dance became a heartwarming day of reconciliation between King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and his siblings, bringing joy to those who witnessed the royal family’s unity.
On Saturday, the King’s sisters went straight to him after he accepted the first reeds from his two daughters, kneeling to give him a hug.
These were the princesses from his mother, Queen Mantfombi, and King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, as well as one from Queen Thandi of KwaLinduzulu Royal Palace. Leading the group were Princess Bukhosibemvelo Zulu-Nyawo, Princess Ntandoyesizwe Zulu-Tembe, Princess Nomkhosi Zulu, and Princess Mukelisiwe Zulu.
This touching moment shifted attention away from the maidens and towards the reconciliation of the royal siblings.
Their show of unity followed reports that King Misuzulu’s siblings had stopped attending royal events due to internal disputes, with rumours suggesting some wanted him dethroned and replaced by his younger brother, Prince Simingaye kaZwelithini.
These rumours were dismissed by the royal family, and on Saturday, all the King’s brothers attended the ceremony in support.
The King’s smile after hugging his sisters was priceless. His brothers also arrived with their wives, marking the first time they had shown such support since the reported fallout.
Even politicians, like Traditional Prime Minister Prince Thulasizwe Buthelezi and ANC KZN chairperson Siboniso Duma, who were once rivals, were seen sharing jokes in front of the King. They stayed at the event until evening and returned on Sunday for the final leg, where the maidens celebrated their virginity through singing and dancing, with the weather on their side.
The maidens showed their love for King Misuzulu, screaming when he appeared on the big screen. The King encouraged them to stay focused on their bright futures, saying, “I love you” and urging them not to let life derail them.
Scrolla.Africa learned that Queen Sibongile maDlamini, the first wife of the late King Zwelithini, who was once in a court battle with King Misuzulu over the late King’s will, is now pushing for unity in the royal family.
Pictured above: King Misuzulu KaZwelithini and Princess Bukhosibemvelo Zulu-Nyawo shared a hug that took centre stage the the Reed Dance held at eNyokeni Royal Palace on Saturday.
Source: Supplied
