Summary
The Zulu king, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, publicly challenged a professor, Prof Musa Xulu, to a stick fight, feeling insulted by comments about the expenses of a new royal palace. Prof Xulu received threats and reported them to the police, while the king's challenge was made during a cultural event with many attendees.
Key Facts
- King Misuzulu kaZwelithini challenged Prof Musa Xulu to a stick fight.
- The challenge was made during the annual Reed Dance attended by thousands.
- Prof Xulu expressed concern for his safety after receiving threats and contacted the police.
- The dispute partly arose from Prof Xulu's comments on the cost of the new eMashobeni palace.
- King Misuzulu became king in 2022 after a family dispute over the throne.
- The Zulu monarchy is influential in South Africa with a significant portion of the population being Zulu.
- Stick fighting is a cultural practice among the Zulu, but participants are usually of equal standing.
