No Hard Feelings: Shembe Invites King Misuzulu for Tea After Viral ‘Idiot’ Remark

Mduduzi Shembe, a prominent leader of the Baptist Nazareth Church, has extended an invitation to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini for a cup of tea, following a recent incident in which the monarch referred to him as an “idiot.” The invitation comes amid ongoing efforts to reconcile and foster mutual understanding between the religious leader and the royal figure, both of whom have faced scrutiny over their public conduct. The incident unfolded two weeks ago when a video clip, reportedly shared by Queen Nomzamo Myeni, surfaced online showing King Misuzulu in what appears to be an argument with Shembe. In the footage, the king, visibly intoxicated, calls Shembe an “idiot” and accuses his wife of infidelity with a church member named Masango. The video quickly gained traction on social media, sparking widespread discussion and polarized reactions. Some supporters defended Myeni, while others criticized her for airing private matters publicly. The king’s behavior, including his apparent consumption of alcohol, drew sharp rebukes from critics who argued that such actions were inappropriate given his status. In response to the controversy, the king’s representatives swiftly issued a formal apology, which Shembe accepted. This step marked an early attempt at damage control. On Monday, Shembe instructed church elders to reach out to the king with a more personal gesture, inviting him for tea. During a filmed statement, an unnamed representative of the church delegation conveyed the message that the situation had been resolved and that the king was welcome to visit the church leader at his convenience. “Your Majesty, our leader sent us here to emphasize that what was reported is now water under the bridge. Therefore, His Majesty is welcome to come to visit the leader whenever His Majesty's schedule permits,” the delegate stated. Through his spokesperson, Mpikayise Buthelezi, the king expressed appreciation for Shembe’s gesture and pledged to make the visit. The church leader, meanwhile, addressed the matter during a recent sermon, urging followers to remain calm and avoid further debate. He acknowledged the king’s state of intoxication and emphasized that he had chosen forgiveness, even towards those who insulted him while under the influence. “I have forgiven people who were insulting me while not drunk. Therefore, I have forgiven the king because he was not in his usual senses due to intoxication,” Shembe explained. The Baptist Nazareth Church, led by Shembe, is renowned for its stringent stance against alcohol consumption, a policy that contrasts sharply with the king’s visible drinking in the video. The church, often referred to simply as Shembe, holds considerable influence and wealth within the region, making the reconciliation effort all the more notable. The king, however, is not unfamiliar with public disputes. Earlier this year, he became embroiled in a verbal clash with his half-sister, Princess Nomkhosi Zulu, which was captured on camera and widely circulated. Despite the tension, the matter was eventually resolved with the help of royal elders, underscoring the complex dynamics within the royal family. As the situation continues to unfold, the upcoming meeting between Shembe and the king represents a potential turning point in their relationship, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance of power, tradition, and personal accountability in South African society.