Talks to be held over 'cruel' Zulu bull-killing ritual

[ccharles000]

South African animal rights activists have agreed to meet Zulu groups in a bid to stop a bull-killing ritual, a senior official says.

Cultural commissioner Pat Mkhize announced the meeting after a court case brought by Animal Rights Africa was postponed.

They are suing Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini, arguing that the ceremony, known as Ukweshwama, is cruel.

A royal spokesman said the killing was a highly symbolic way of thanking God.

Mr Mkhize said all parties had agreed to take part in talks in Durban on Tuesday.

"We have called a meeting of all parties because we believe that this matter can still be resolved out of court," South African news agency Sapa quoted him as saying.

Animal campaigners say the Ukweshwama ritual does nothing to strengthen nation-building, social cohesion or peace.

In a statement, Animal Rights Africa quoted an eyewitness as saying the bull was tortured for 40 minutes during a previous ceremony.

"Dozens trampled the bellowing, groaning bull, wrenched its head around by the horns to try to break its neck, pulled its tongue out, stuffed sand in its mouth and even tried to tie its penis in a knot.



http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8374414.stm

[panader0]

1. Tying your penis in a knot is quite painful

[chatnoir]

2. Let's torture an innocent creature of god for 40 mins

in unfathomable ways in order to honor said god. WTF.

This story made me sick.

I hope there is a hell for such ppl.