A common tradition in Swaziland (Swazi) permits the King, Mswati, to choose a new bride every year.
A report by Talk Africa, has revealed a common tradition in Swaziland (Swazi) which permits the King, Mswati, to choose a new bride every year. It has been a long time part of Swazi custom and norms and isn’t the first time this controversial issue is making news globally.
In 2012, Dailymail reported that topless virgins were paraded in front of the Swazi King, to celebrate chastity and unity. That time of the year has come when the King chooses his bride and again, he has reportedly tested girls’ virginity before choosing a wife for himself.
King Mswati III during last year's ceremony when he added a new wife
The Reed Dance ceremony, known as Umhlanga reveals thousands of Swaziland’s prettiest virgins dancing topless for King Mswati III, every August, hoping to be his next wife. The underage girls are being publicly checked to ascertain that their virginity was still intact.
King Mswati III speaking during the 67th session of the UN General Assembly