King Misuzulu apologises after leaked private recordings spark public reaction

The Office of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has issued a statement expressing regret over the circulation of private video recordings involving the monarch, saying the clips were shared without his knowledge or consent and do not reflect the current state of affairs within the Royal Household.

According to the statement, the videos capture private conversations between the King and members of the Royal Family, including Her Majesty Queen Nomzamo Myeni, and are historical in nature.

The Office said the recordings surfaced publicly on Thursday, 9 July 2026 while King Misuzulu and Queen Nomzamo Myeni were carrying out official duties together at KwaKhangelamankengane Royal Palace, where they hosted a delegation from Build One South Africa (BOSA) led by Mmusi Maimane.

The statement said the couple's joint public appearance demonstrates their shared commitment to the institution of the Zulu Monarchy and indicates that the events shown in the recordings have since been overtaken by reconciliation and continued service to the nation.

While stressing that the recordings were made in a private family setting, the King acknowledged that some of the remarks made during what was described as an emotionally charged moment fell short of the dignity and restraint expected of a monarch.

He said he recognises that his words caused pain, disappointment and embarrassment to members of the Royal Family, amakhosi, the Royal Household, religious leaders and the broader Zulu Nation.

The King expressed sincere remorse for his remarks and asked those affected to accept his apology, saying leadership requires humility, accountability and respect, even during personal challenges.

As part of efforts to promote reconciliation, the Office said King Misuzulu has appointed a delegation of senior Royal House elders to engage with Unyazi Lwezulu of the Nazareth Baptist Church. The delegation has been tasked with formally conveying the King's regret over his remarks and reaffirming the Zulu Throne's respect for Unyazi Lwezulu and the Nazareth Baptist Church.

The Office said the King remains committed to preserving the dignity, unity and integrity of the Royal Household and the Zulu Kingdom while promoting reconciliation and constructive dialogue.

It also appealed to the public and the media to respect the privacy of the Royal Family and refrain from sharing further private recordings.