Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini Misuzulu kaZwelithini has apologised for the remarks he made in leaked audio recordings in which he lashed out at Queen Ntokozo kaMayisela, admitting that his conduct fell below the standard expected of the country’s monarch.
In a statement released on Friday, the king said he deeply regretted his utterances and asked for forgiveness from everyone affected, while the royal household maintained that the recordings were private family conversations that were leaked without his consent.
The palace said the recordings were historical and did not reflect the current state of affairs within the royal household.
While emphasising the private nature of the recordings, the king acknowledged that his remarks were inappropriate and inconsistent with the dignity, restraint and decorum expected of a monarch.
“Notwithstanding the private and historical nature of the recordings, His Majesty acknowledges that certain expressions made during an emotionally charged moment fell short of the dignity, restraint and decorum that the nation rightfully expects from its monarch,” the statement read.
The king also acknowledged the hurt caused by his words, saying they had brought pain, disappointment and embarrassment to members of the royal family, amakhosi, the royal household, religious leaders and the broader Zulu nation.
“His Majesty recognises that the words spoken have caused pain, disappointment, embarrassment and disquiet among members of the royal family, amakhosi, the royal household, religious leaders and the broader Zulu nation.”
He appealed to those affected to accept his sincere apology and said leadership required wisdom, patience and respect even during moments of personal hardship.
“His Majesty deeply regrets the hurt caused by his utterances and humbly asks those who were affected to receive his sincere expression of remorse. He acknowledges that leadership carries an enduring responsibility to demonstrate wisdom, patience and respect, even during moments of personal difficulty.”
The recordings emerged on social media on Thursday, the same day the king and Queen Ntokozo presented a united front while hosting a Build One South Africa delegation led by Mmusi Maimane at the KwaKhangelamankengane Royal Palace.
The royal household said the king and queen had since worked through their marital challenges and remained committed to serving the Zulu nation together.
“The continued participation of His Majesty and Her Majesty in official engagements together reflects their shared commitment to the institution of the Zulu monarchy and to the service of the nation.”
