Ngizwe Mchunu, the cultural promoter who is accused of instigating the infamous July 2021 unrest in support of Jacob Zuma, is shifting political loyalties.

The former Ukhozi FM presenter who was once a top Zuma fan, started last week by calling on Zulu traditionalists not to boo President Cyril Ramaphosa when he gave his eulogy at the funeral of former IFP leader Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

He praised the Ramaphosa government for being on track to turn the country’s economy around.

Mchunu, an influential figure in northern Zululand, also turned his charms on Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and former president Thabo Mbeki.

The self-proclaimed president of the Bhinca nation arrived in the VIP marquee where dignitaries were sitting just to greet Zondo and Mbeki.

Zondo was heard saying “Azikhale” and laughing out loud with Mchunu.

Azikhale was the signature warcry used by instigators of the unrest that led to over 300 deaths and a R50-billion economic loss.

The Randburg Magistrate’s Court is set to deliver its ruling on Mchunu’s case on 27 September.

“Zondo was so happy to meet me. I’m glad he was the one who said Azikhale when he greeted me in front of everyone. Even Thabo Mbeki was so happy to see me. He never criticised or questioned me about the July unrest. I also realised that when Mbeki saw me he was very happy but when Ramaphosa came in, he changed his facial expression,” said Mchunu.

Ironically, Mchunu insulted Zondo in 2021, accusing him of colluding with Zuma’s enemies. This was after Zuma was arrested for being in contempt of court after failing to appear at the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture.

Pictured above: Alleged July unrest instigator Nguzwe Mchunu and former president Thabo Mbeki at Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s funeral

Image source: Celani Sikhakhane