The king of South Africa's large Zulu community has challenged a professor and cultural expert to a stick fight, saying he had been insulted, along with the entire Zulu nation.
King Misuzulu kaZwelithini issued the challenge to Prof Musa Xulu in front of thousands of people who had gathered at his newly built royal palace for the annual Reed Dance. We are angry and we will do anything to protect and preserve our cultures, he said, according to the Timeslive news site.
Prof Xulu told the BBC he took the king's personal challenge as a joke, however he said he was worried for his safety in case he was attacked by other Zulus. I have received threats from hired assassins, he said, adding that he had lodged a formal complaint with the police.
King Misuzulu did not specify exactly what Prof Xulu had said to anger him but he was quoted as saying: It pains me to see another man telling me how to do my job. He emphasized, If his friends are here, go and tell him that there is a fighting ring - if he wants a stick fight because I can take him up, said the king, aged 50.
Prof Xulu believes the king was angered by his comments in a local media interview regarding the expenses related to the new eMashobeni palace, stating that it seemed wasteful given the past investment in the Enyokeni palace. Nevertheless, he pointed out, Talking about public finance is not an insult, insisting his critiques were not personal.
Having not engaged in stick-fighting since his youth, he stated that such activities are part of Zulu culture but that those involved should be equals, which he feels he is not to the king.
The 64-year-old professor also reminded that he holds doctorates in Zulu music and cultural tourism, distancing himself from any hostile intent towards the king.
King Misuzulu ascended to the throne in 2022 after a year-long feud following the deaths of both his father and mother. Despite challenges to his claim, he is recognized by the Zulu royal household and the South African state, leading a significant population that's influential within the nation.
The Zulu monarchy, while without formal political power, receives a substantial taxpayer-funded budget annually and retains a profound cultural significance in South Africa, known historically for its triumphs, including the famous victory at the battle of Isandlwana in 1879.
