Ndlozi: 'Israel is prepared to buy all the kings and church leaders' as King Dalindyebo visits Jerusalem

King Buyelekhaya Zwelibanzi Dalindyebo of the AbaThembu Kingdom met with Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gidon Sa’ar, on Monday in Jerusalem.

The King is believed to be visiting Israel as part of a delegation hosted by the Israeli foreign ministry.

The delegation includes Chief Apostle Caesar Nonqunga of the Twelve Apostles Church in Christ (TACC), his children Princess Ntando and Prince Sinethemba, as well as several AbaThembu chiefs and members of the royal family.

According to the Israeli embassy in posts on social media, the delegation will meet with those believed to be in captivity and travel to communities near the Gaza border. Their itinerary includes visits to the site of the Nova music festival and Kibbutz Nir Oz, where attacks were carried out during the events of 7 October.

The visit has sparked strong reactions, with many social media users calling for responses from political leaders, including Julius Malema and President Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly over the display of the South African flag in the announcement.

EFF MP Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi criticised the visit in a reply to the post on X, saying: “Israel is prepared to buy all the kings and church leaders with a large following to embarrass our government. It’s time for members to call out their church leaders and kings. It can’t be business as usual.”

Public reaction has been divided, with some South Africans expressed disappointment and concern, while others welcomed the diplomatic engagement.

Further details of the delegation’s meetings and activities in Israel have not yet been disclosed.

IOL