This year’s opening of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature has been plunged into doubt after King Misuzulu KaZwelithini raised concerns about the newly chosen venue, saying it poses security challenges to him and other guests.
The chosen venue is Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg after the provincial legislature dumped the Pietermaritzburg Royal Show Grounds which has hosted the official opening by two Zulu Kings for decades.
It is not known why the legislature decided to ditch the showgrounds for the opening billed for 27 February 2025.
In his letter toThirusha Naidoo, the Secretary of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, King Misizulu said concerns are primarily centered around issues of security and accessibility, which he believes warrant urgent consideration.
He added that having had prior experience with the venue, he is well acquainted with its layout and limitations.
The monarch’s security fears came after the number of his bodyguards was recently reduced from 12 to five. He had to write to President Cyril Ramaphosa to plead that his team be beefed up amid assassination and poisoning fears.
“Woodburn Stadium presents substantial security risks due to its structural layout, which includes: Limited Access and Egress Points: The venue’s restricted entry and exit routes pose a severe challenge for crowd management and evacuation procedures, particularly in an emergency situation. This limitation compromises the safety of not only myself but also my delegation and all other dignitaries in attendance.
“High Ground Security Vulnerabilities: The surrounding topography of the stadium includes elevated areas that overlook the venue. This presents a critical security threat, as it exposes the gathering to potential risks from vantage points that cannot be adequately secured,” the Zulu King wrote in the letter dated 17 February 2025.
Furthermore, the King said unlike the Royal Show Grounds, which provides a controlled and secure environment, Woodburn Stadium lacks the necessary protective measures required for an event of this magnitude and importance.
“Given the current security climate, which demands heightened vigilance, I am seriously concerned about the venue’s ability to provide the comprehensive security required to ensure my safety and that of my delegation. I am particularly troubled by the exposure to potential threats from elevated areas around the stadium, which could be exploited due to inadequate security coverage.”
Phathisa Mfuyo, the media liaison officer in the Office of the Speaker, Nontembeko Boyce, said there will be a press conference on Sunday in Durban where all questions about the event would be answered.
