Durban - Following the devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal which left parts of the province’s roads and bridges damaged and the anticipated high number of dignitaries and ordinary people who would attend King Misuzulu’s coronation, the royal coronation committee has proposed moving the venue from Enyokeni Palace to Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban.
To accommodate the important rituals that culturally need to be observed the committee in one of the recent meetings suggested that the event must be in two folds, the small one taking place in KwaKhangelamankengane and Enyokeni palaces while the main one would take place the following day in Durban.
Prince Gobizizwe Zulu of Osuthu confirmed to the Daily News there is a view within the committee that considering the damage caused by floods to the infrastructure such as roads and bridges as well as the anticipated high number of the people Enyokeni palace would not be suitable.
He said there was no decision taken but confirmed that the issue was raised and the proposal would be taken to the government and other stakeholders for comment and input.
“It is true there is such a view among the committee but we will consult with all stakeholders and hear what they say.
“Moses Mabhida stadium is one of the suggested venues,” said Zulu.
He added that the committee members had a view that if the event is held as far as Durban another one should be conducted in KwaKhangelamkankengane and Enyokeni or Osuthu Palaces to observe cultural protocols and rituals.
Part of the cultural practices anchored in the coronation ceremony is for the king to via in the kraal with amabutho before joining everyone in the venue to accept his recognition certificate from the country’s president.
Traditionally amabutho strangled the bull by hands until its death as a demonstration that they would protect the king from enemies.
The royal family spokesperson Prince Thulani said he would not want things that were discussed in the committee but not yet agreed upon to be known by the public.
“Some of the things you ask me about may be correct but there is no decision taken by the committee.
“Sometimes we discuss things in the committee then we take them to the elders like the king and Prince Buthelezi for their input and then to the government but for now we are still working on Enyokeni palace as a chosen venue until such time the committee takes another decision,” said Zulu.
Another concern raised as a reason for moving the event, which was scheduled before the floods, was the anticipation of international and continental dignitaries who may attend.
The issue was that Prince Mangosuthu Airport would not cope with the high volume of flights and even if it could, dignitaries would still travel about 50km to get to Enyokeni, which would create a traffic jam.
The long-awaited ceremony was scheduled for May 28 at Enyokeni palace in KwaNongoma but had to be postponed in honour of more than 400 people who perished during the devastating floods three weeks ago.
Daily News