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Ruler Simakade’s May 2021 letter to Sovereign Mangosuthu Buthelezi, where he openly expressed his indifference to the Zulu royal position, has become a pivotal piece of evidence in his legal dispute against Lord Misuzulu. This letter, now a part of court records in Pretoria and Pietermaritzburg, as well as official royal press statements, is shedding light on the intricacies of the Zulu succession dispute.
The letter is being used to demonstrate that Ruler Simakade was initially aware that he had no strong claim to the Zulu throne. It was only after being encouraged by a faction within the Zulu royal family, citing his status as the eldest son of the late Lord Generosity Zwelithini, that he began to assert his right to the throne.
During a recent court hearing, Advocate Marumo Moerane SC, representing President Cyril Ramaphosa in the ongoing legal battle brought forth by Ruler Simakade, referred to this crucial letter, which was sent just before the May 14, 2021, meeting. It was at this meeting that the faction ultimately nominated the then-Ruler Misuzulu to assume the prestigious position.
Ruler Simakade’s legal team is also arguing that this particular faction’s selection process should be deemed invalid, as it involved individuals who are not rightful members of the Zulu royal family.
Furthermore, Moerane pointed out that the letter of dispute from Princess Thembi Zulu-Ndlovu to Ramaphosa and KZN Chief Sihle Zikalala did not meet the necessary legal standards, absolving the President of any obligation to consider it in the dispute.