In a dramatic turn of events, King Mswati of Eswatini has proposed to marry 21-year-old Nomcebo Zuma, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma. This move has sparked controversy and mixed reactions within both families, particularly after Zuma snubbed the traditional family meeting intended for the proposal.
In a recent development that has captured the attention of both Eswatini and South Africa, King Mswati III, the absolute monarch of Eswatini, has expressed his intention to marry 21-year-old Nomcebo Zuma, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma. The proposal, which has caused a stir, was formalized through the traditional practice known as “kucela,” wherein the King sent a delegation of traditionalists to Zuma’s home in KwaZulu-Natal to present ten cattle as a symbol of seeking permission to marry.
However, the former South African President did not attend the family meeting organized for the kucela ceremony, allegedly feeling betrayed by the King, whom he considered a friend. Kucela, a siSwati term, refers to seeking blessings from the elders before marrying their daughter. Initially, King Mswati had suggested that Nomcebo would marry one of his sons, a proposition to which Zuma had agreed. But the King later changed his mind, deciding to marry Nomcebo himself.
Percy Simelane, the King’s spokesperson, stated that he was unaware of any proposed marriage. Contrarily, one of the King’s wives confirmed the plans, revealing that a delegation led by King’s emissary Qethuka Dlamini had indeed traveled to KwaZulu-Natal to seek Nomcebo’s hand in marriage.
The revelation has stirred various reactions, particularly among the King’s current wives. One wife expressed her frustration and disappointment, stating that it was surprising that while some wives seldom see the King, he was making plans to marry another woman. This sentiment was echoed by another of the King’s wives, who confided in a relative about her husband’s confirmation of the proposed marriage, highlighting his intent to strengthen relations with the Zuma family.
In the Zuma household, there were mixed feelings about the proposal. While former President Zuma snubbed the meeting, Nomcebo’s mother, MaMhlongo, was reportedly overjoyed. Despite not being legally married to Jacob Zuma, MaMhlongo attended the family meeting and viewed the King’s proposal as a blessing.
Efforts to reach Jacob Zuma’s spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful. However, the unfolding situation has generated significant intrigue and speculation about the implications of this proposed union.