The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) on Tuesday welcomed the court judgment which upheld the recognition of the Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the rightful monarch of the AmaZulu nation, and it urged the royal family to resolve differences through dialogue and mutual understanding.

The Supreme Court of Appeal on Monday ruled in favour of President Cyril Ramaphosa and Misuzulu, setting aside the Pretoria High Court ruling, which last year ruled that the crowning and recognition of Misuzulu, by Ramaphosa, as the King of the Zulu nation was unlawful and invalid.

The royal family had approached the courts to determine the rightful heir, following the death of the Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu.

Misuzulu’s brother Prince Simakade Zulu claimed he was entitled to the throne. However, the king’s uncle, Prince Mbonisi Zulu, believed the family should reconvene to identify an heir.

Cogta Committee chairperson Dr Zweli Mkhize said the ruling brings “much-needed” closure to the matter.

“The committee believes it now provides an opportunity for healing, unity and renewed focus on the important cultural and developmental role that traditional leadership plays in our democracy,” he said.

Mkhize urged the AmaZulu royal family, traditional leaders and the people of KwaZulu-Natal to accept the judgment “with dignity” and to assist the royal household in “reconciling and restoring harmony”.

“The Zulu royal throne is an enduring symbol of unity, continuity and the collective dignity of the AmaZulu nation. It requires the support of all, including those who may have held differing views, to ensure stability and cohesion within the institution,” he said.

Mkhize further urged leaders, elders and members of the community to approach the royal house with “respect and wisdom.”

“The province of KwaZulu-Natal stands to benefit from peace, social cohesion and economic progress. These outcomes can only flourish in an atmosphere of tolerance and cooperation,” he said.