King Misuzulu’s upcoming wedding to Queen Nomzamo Myeni, set for Sunday, 26 January, has raised concerns within the Shembe Church, where he is a baptized member. Church members are questioning the timing of the ceremony, as January is traditionally reserved for the church’s holy pilgrimage, during which no other ceremonies are allowed. The king’s wedding is seen as a direct contradiction to this rule, leading to confusion among congregants.
Several Shembe Church members, speaking anonymously, expressed that as a baptized member, King Misuzulu should adhere to the church’s rules. They pointed out that no ceremonies, including weddings or animal sacrifices, are permitted in January, a month exclusively dedicated to the pilgrimage at the eKhenana Mountain in Ndwedwe, KZN. The king’s decision to go ahead with the wedding during this period has caused disappointment among some members who feel the rules should apply equally to all.
However, there is a sense of understanding from some members regarding the king’s royal duties. They argue that while he should respect the church’s rules for personal ceremonies, certain royal events like the annual Zulu royal house ceremonies or the Battle of Isandlwana commemoration, which also take place in January, could be seen as exceptions due to their historical significance. But the wedding, they contend, is a personal affair and could have been scheduled for another month.
In response to the growing concern, Thokozani Mncwabe, a spokesman for Shembe Church in Ebuhleni, defended the king’s decision. He explained that while all Shembe members are typically bound by the church’s rules, King Misuzulu communicates directly with the church leader, Inkosi Unyazilwezulu, and follows divine instructions. Mncwabe implied that the king’s wedding in January is sanctioned by the spiritual authority of Inkosi Unyazilwezulu, who is believed to have received guidance from above.
Mncwabe further suggested that those questioning the king’s actions should refrain from doing so, as they would not fully understand the decisions made by their leader. He added that the pilgrimage could end a day before the wedding, which could accommodate the king’s ceremony without violating the church’s traditions. Attempts to reach King Misuzulu’s spokesperson for comment were unsuccessful.
