Professor Musa Xulu has declared that he fears for his life following a public rebuke by King Misuzulu KaZwelithini at the annual Reed Dance ceremony. Xulu claims that, in addition to the scolding, assassins have been hired to kill him.
Xulu, a well-known cultural analyst, says the King’s criticism came after he made certain comments that offended royal sensibilities. He alleges that, after the public denouncement, he began receiving threats and believes the attack on his reputation may escalate to violence.
The undermining remarks from King Misuzulu reportedly singled out Xulu in front of a large audience. The cultural analyst interpreted the King’s words not merely as criticism, but as a signal that his life might be in danger.
Professor Xulu has expressed concern that the threats are real, saying that hired assassins may have been sent targeting him, and that this fear is affecting his day-to-day life. Authorities have not yet publicly confirmed whether investigations into the threats are underway.
The incident raises serious questions about freedom of speech in cultural discourse, the protection of voices critical of traditional authorities, and whether public figures in cultural roles are adequately protected when they criticize powerful institutions.