Zulu king Misuzulu kaZwelithini didn't bat an eye when a woman rushed the stage where he was sitting with President Cyril Ramaphosa at the official unveiling of a King Shaka statue, demanding to speak to him.
The barefoot woman wearing a cream dress, scarf and sunglasses fought off two metro policewomen, including slapping them before two VIP policemen contained her and led her away.
The feisty woman, however, continued to fight, sank to the ground and had to be dragged out of the VIP area and led to an ambulance.
Police didn't respond to queries about the woman.
While social media speculated on reasons for the woman's attempts to speak to the king, the monarch's spokesperson didn't respond to queries about whether she was known to him.
The incident was a mere blip in the formalities as Amabutho (Zulu regiments) and Omama besiphithiphithi (Zulu matrons) sang and danced at the ceremony on a gloomy day.
The king continued with the programme to unveil the statue honouring a bastion of the Zulu nation after whom the international airport is named.
The 12m statue of Shaka in warrior pose replaces a previous artwork that was criticised for apparently making the AmaZulu monarch look like a “herdboy”.
The replacement has been in the making since 2010 when King Goodwill Zwelithini demanded the removal of a R3.2m sculpture of King Shaka surrounded by cattle because it did not reflect his great-grandfather as a “warrior king”.
He called on the nation to create monuments and symbols which immortalise the legacies of its heroes and heroines as the country embarks on the development of cultural routes and heritage.
“We should etch their stories into shared history ensuring their invaluable contribution is never forgotten. All the traditional leaders have made an immense contribution,” said Misuzulu.
“There are heroines. We should not be a nation which is perceived as being against honouring women,” said Misuzulu.
He said his legacy had taught him the importance of defending the communities and generations.
This ensured the safety of future generations.
“If we can continue in the trajectory our nation will be prosperous always,” said Misuzulu.
He said King Shaka pioneered a system of governance and understood the importance of the land and its people.
While King Shaka was celebrated for his military genius, there was another profound aspect he said, which deserved recognition.
“King Shaka had a remarkable understanding of the land and its people. He knew every river,” said Misuzulu.
He vowed to follow in the footsteps of his father and forefathers by defending and protecting people from being dispossessed of their land.
The monarch said he was grateful to KZN premier Thami Ntuli for upholding the promise to his father and the late Zulu prime minister Dr Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“As I unveiled the statue I felt the presence of my father but also of King Shaka. Ilembe [King Shaka] together stand with us and remind out of enduring legacies,” said Misuzulu.
Ramaphosa described the founder of the Zulu nation as a warrior who was also a unifier, outstanding leader and reformer and it was fitting how he was now immortalised.
Ramaphosa said last year domestic and international tourists visited the province to take advantage of its beaches, natural splendour and wildlife. They also came to witness the unique culture of the Zulu nation.
“The statue stands as a proud testament to a great history, great man and a glorious era. The life of the Zulu nation in the reign of King Shaka ilembe,” said Ramaphosa.
He predicted the statue will inspire visitors to the country to see the representation of a great king. “It's the greatest source of pride that King Shaka’s life history and contribution is being retold and reclaimed by a generation born of democracy,” said Ramaphosa.
Ntuli said the unveiling comes two years after Ramaphosa recognised King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the monarch.
“This reinforced the continuity of a legacy of leadership and resilience that began with King Shaka, a leader who not only unified the Zulu nation but also laid the foundations of a community grounded in courage, unity and purpose,” said Ntuli.
He said the king spoke of a powerful vision, saying: “Our nation is based on a myriad of customs and values that span so many years. There is evidence that communities can thrive on their cultural heritage in the form of smart tourism.
“This time the Zulu Royal Family will lead the way as immediately my office will work with tourism authorities, relevant departments, and organised local government in the province to launch the Royal Tourism Destination Initiative.”
Ntuli said the statue stands as a testament of shared commitment to cultural heritage tourism.
“This aligns with the government’s grand vision for preserving and celebrating our shared history. This statue marks the beginning of a renewed focus on cultural tourism, empowering local communities and attracting visitors to experience the depth of our traditions, values and stories,” said Ntuli.
He described King Shaka’s legacy is one of unity, resilience and strength, qualities that continue to guide us forward.
“Through the newly integrated KwaZulu-Natal tourism and film authority, provincial government will amplify heritage tourism routes and create opportunities to honour the rich tapestry of our collective identity,” said Ntuli.
He added: “Let us reflect on the visionary leadership of King Shaka and his generation. His foresight, strength and determination laid the blueprint for unity and resilience, qualities we strive to emulate as we tackle our modern challenges.”
“This statue symbolises our respect and gratitude for a leader who shaped history through innovation and strategic acumen, carving out a legacy that inspires not only the Zulu nation but all of us. It is our shared heritage, and today, we stand together to celebrate it,” said Ntuli.
“It is my hope that King Shaka’s legacy will serve as a beacon, guiding our province towards greater unity, strength and prosperity. Let this statue stand as a testament to the strength of a people who, against all odds, continue to rise and build a better future for generations to come,” said Ntuli.
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