Gqom queen Babes Wodumo’s hopes of meeting King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at the recent Heritage Day celebrations were dashed, leaving the singer disappointed. She had attended the event in KwaDukuza, north of Durban, specifically hoping to meet the Zulu monarch.
“The [Heritage Day] experience was breathtaking. I saw Zulu culture in a different light. Everyone rejoicing and proud of being Zulu. The colours, songs, dances — it was amazing. I don’t regret coming to witness such an amazing event,” Babes told TshisaLIVE.
Had she met the King, Babes had prepared words of praise: “Thank you for leading us with passion, with no fear. As much it was big shoes to fill, you took it with pride. We have no doubt you’ll lead us with integrity and honour. We trust you,” she shared.
Sources close to the royal family claim that Queen Ntokozo feels increasingly isolated and sidelined since the King’s third marriage. This alleged marginalisation has reportedly led to Queen Ntokozo’s absence from several key royal events. She was notably missing from the Annual Reed Dance at Enyokeni Palace, the King’s 50th birthday celebrations, and the Umkhosi Welembe/Shaka Zulu day commemorations.
It is suggested that Queen Ntokozo’s absence stems from feelings of embarrassment and being overshadowed by the new Queen. Sources also allege that King Misuzulu often prioritises his newest wife, even during official duties.
The situation has reportedly escalated to the point where Queen Ntokozo has moved out of the royal palace in Ulundi and is now residing in a Durban apartment with her two children. The couple officially married on 6 May 2021, the day before the funeral of the King’s mother, Queen Mantfombi Zulu.
This is not the first time rumours of trouble in the royal marriage have surfaced. Reports from February of last year in the Sunday World newspaper hinted at difficulties, following allegations by women and children’s rights activist Sihle Sibisi of a romantic involvement with the King. There were also claims that the King’s detractors were using Sibisi’s name to tarnish his reputation. The same article also alleged that Queen Ntokozo was involved in an extra-marital affair.
Coincidentally, Babes Wodumo, now a widow following the death of her husband Mampintsha on Christmas Eve 2022, expressed a strong desire to meet the King who recently married a wife, Queen Nomzamo.
Meanwhile, Babes Wodumo is also busy with her music career. Fresh off a collaboration with DJ Kotin on the song Nzo Nzo Nzo, she is currently filming music videos for her upcoming album.
“I’m already shooting music videos. My team thought it’s best we release in October because my album will take them to [the] December feeling instantly,” she explained.
The Gqom star is also gearing up for a performance this weekend. “This weekend I’m performing and I’m taking everyone for a ride on my musical journey. I’m going all out on that stage. I’ll dance until my lungs fail me. I want to leave that stage knowing I gave my fans my all.” she added.
