In the latest chapter of the Zulu royal succession saga, Prince Simakade kaZwelithini has once again made headlines, but this time not for the reasons he might have hoped.

On Monday, a statement from Prince Mxolisi Gaylord kaBhekuzulu, acting on behalf of Simakade, expressed outrage over the unauthorized use of Simakade’s image in promotional material for the Reed Dance. This flyer, allegedly distributed by the provincial government, celebrated 40 years of the event and featured a prominent image of Simakade.

Simakade’s claim to the throne hinges on his adoption by the late Queen Regent Mantfombi kaSobhuza Dlamini-Zulu, a traditional ceremony he argues legitimizes his position as king. Despite his claims, the legal landscape remains contested. Simakade previously challenged President Cyril Ramaphosa in the North Gauteng High Court, alleging procedural errors in recognizing King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the legitimate successor. While the court ruled in his favor, Ramaphosa’s appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal has yet to be resolved, leaving the succession issue in limbo.

Amid this backdrop, Simakade’s public image has taken a hit. The South African public, particularly on social media, has turned Simakade into the subject of widespread mockery. The spectacle of royal disputes, compounded by Simakade’s unsuccessful attempt to block last year's Reed Dance and his recent standoff at the eNyokeni Royal Palace, has fueled a wave of satire and derision.