The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has ruled in favour of President Cyril Ramaphosa and King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, overturning a previous Pretoria High Court ruling that challenged the King's official recognition. The decision, delivered today in Bloemfontein, affirms President Ramaphosa's initial recognition of King Misuzulu as the rightful Zulu monarch, which took place in March 2022.
The legal battle began when members of the Zulu royal family, who opposed Misuzulu's ascension to the throne, approached the courts to contest the President's decision. They argued that the proper procedures had not been followed in the recognition process.
The Pretoria High Court initially sided with the dissenting royal family members, ruling in their favour and casting doubt on the validity of King Misuzulu's recognition.
In response to the High Court's decision, lawyers representing both King Misuzulu and President Cyril Ramaphosa lodged an appeal with the Supreme Court of Appeal. They argued that all necessary processes had been adhered to and that the royal family had, in fact, identified King Misuzulu as their chosen leader. The President's role, they contended, was simply to provide official recognition to the already-selected monarch.
The SCA heard arguments from both sides of the case three months ago. Now, the Supreme Court of Appeal has overturned the Pretoria High Court ruling. In addition to upholding King Misuzulu's recognition, the SCA has ordered that the respondents, those who initially challenged the recognition, are responsible for covering the costs of the appeal.
The ruling brings an end to a period of legal uncertainty surrounding the Zulu monarchy and solidifies King Misuzulu kaZwelithini's position as the officially recognised leader of the Zulu nation. The decision is likely to be welcomed by supporters of King Misuzulu and those who believe in the importance of respecting the traditions and customs of the Zulu people.
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