Ramaphosa's Certification of Zulu King Under Legal Spotlight in Pretoria High Court

President Cyril Ramaphosa is once again under scrutiny as his decision to affirm King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini as the Zulu monarch is questioned in the Pretoria High Court. The late King Goodwill Zwelithini's half-brother, Prince Simakade ka Zwelithini Zulu, and other royal family members are challenging this decision. They argue for reconsideration, citing contention around the throne succession process and its legality.

Simakade argues that Ramaphosa's confirmation of Misuzulu as the Zulu king was unlawful because the succession process itself was illegitimate. It is a contentious issue with different factions within the royal family all presenting their claims to the throne.

Simakade's advocate, Alan Dodson, claimed that the decision to identify Misuzulu as king was previously determined and was therefore prejudiced.

Further contention arises as the succession process is regulated by customary law and legislation. Advocate Dodson asserts that if the deciding meeting did not meet legal standards, any decisions ensuing, including Ramaphosa's certification of Misuzulu, are illegitimate.

Matters are complicated with multiple court cases concerning the royal family's succession disputes, including one questioning the legitimacy of the will. Ramaphosa and the minister’s advocate, Marumo Moerane, however, argued that these judgments were either dismissed or are currently under appeal.

Criticisms continue to fly against Ramaphosa’s decision to certify Misuzulu as the Zulu king. The legal tussle continues, shedding light on the complex dynamics of royal succession and inter-family disputes.