Zulu King Misuzulu Regrets Tirade after Video Showed Him Insulting Wife
South Africa’s Zulu monarch expressed deep regret after a leaked video showed him hurling insults at his third wife, Queen Nomzamo Myeni.
The video was shared widely on Wednesday and captured Misuzulu threatening to physically assault the queen, accusing her of an affair and demanding she leave the house.
In response, the king’s office issued a statement acknowledging the “pain” and “embarrassment” caused. They emphasized that the recordings were “historical in nature” and did not reflect current circumstances within the Royal Household.
The footage also revealed the king criticizing the queen for traveling without permission, remarking, “She’s out there without my permission. When you’re a wife, you ask for permission.” He added that he has a girlfriend waiting for him.
Social media reactions have been sharply divided. Some critics accuse the king of abusive and undignified conduct, while others hold the queen responsible for exposing private matters publicly. A journalist noted that she empathized with the queen’s motivation to record the incident, arguing no woman deserves such treatment.
Beyond the personal dispute, the video touches on broader issues within South African society, including the patriarchal norms of Zulu culture and the country’s high rates of gender‑based violence. Last year, South Africa classified gender‑based violence as a national disaster.
The incident also recalls the recent family feud that led to Misuzulu’s coronation being delayed, with accusations that he was not the rightful heir and that his father’s will was forged.
Read the original BBC article for more details.
