South Africa's Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has recorded a video for the local media in which he railed against rumors that he had been poisoned.
"I’m happy, everything is well functioning, there is no poison whatsoever. So please people, mostly to the Zulu people, the Zulu royal family also remind everyone not to listen to everything that people say," the monarch said.
According to the King, he went to the clinic as part of a scheduled medical checkup that he does from time to time at the Eswatini Hospital.
Zulu Prime Minister Mangosuthu Buthelezi revealed on Sunday that the monarch preferred treatment in Eswatini as he was uncomfortable seeking medical care in a South African hospital, where his mother "received treatment and subsequently died."
Later in the day, the royal family dismissed claims that Misuzulu kaZwelithini was unwell, stating that the king underwent "minor tests" following the sudden death of his counselor, Douglas Xaba, as authorities feared poisoning.
Misuzulu was crowned last year and officially acknowledged as the monarch by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who presented him with a certificate of recognition.
South Africa's constitution recognizes sovereign and traditional chiefs. Although they have no executive power, they have deep moral authority and are revered by their people.