Watch: Ramaphosa rushed away from Zulu King’s funeral after ‘security threat’

President Cyril Ramaphosa and his fellow VIP mourners made a speedy escape from the Royal Palace in KZN, after they were initially blocked from leaving the funeral of Zulu King Zwelithini by a large group of unruly protesters.

King Zwelithini funeral protests

The main gates to the event were blocked off by around 100 people forming a ‘Zulu regiment’. Disgruntled that they couldn’t enter the event in their full traditional gear, the iron gate was closed on them. However, an armed battalion of SAPS failed to clear the group from the front gates – leading to a tense stand-off once their cordon was broken.

Members of President Ramaphosa’s security team were informed about the ruckus up ahead. With their only means of exiting the venue compromised, there was a desperate need for some quick-thinking. Sure enough, several guards on duty made light work of dismantling a nearby fence, allowing the presidential motorcade to make its way through.

Watch: Cyril Ramaphos escapes ‘security threat’

The have to make temporary exit for President since the gate was blocked. President used this gate. pic.twitter.com/MjhCEO6lQZ

— MR PAID (@kamuhelo6) March 18, 2021

It is said that Ramaphosa had to be whisked out ngentuba encane amabutho ese vale i gate… https://t.co/dYZwmElvIg pic.twitter.com/Yw3LoMlvGx

— Unidentified Leader(s) (@Gcinahlophe) March 18, 2021

Cyril Ramaphosa hails Zulu King Zwelithini

Despite the initial worries caused by this security threat, the high-profile delegation – which also included Princess Charlene of Monaco – was able to make an escape. Before the commotion, Cyril Ramaphosa delivered an emotional tribute to the deceased King Zwelithini, who died in hospital last week. His 50-year rule was brought to an end by COVID-19.

Ramaphosa labelled the popular monarch as a ‘staunch defender of his people’:

“On behalf of the people of South Africa, I express my deepest condolences to the Royal Family and to the Zulu nation on this profound loss. The passing of his Majesty means that We have lost a revered leader who had the distinction of leading the Zulu people for half a century. The significance of his long reign and his legacy is not lost on us.”

“It was during the course of his reign, that his people – alongside all the people of our nation – realised their dream of freedom from the injustices of colonialism and apartheid. Imbube will be remembered for being the staunchest defender of his people. He not only defended and advanced the interests of the Zulu people, but advanced their culture too.”