King Misuzulu kaZwelithini faces a new challenge as the Amahlubi tribe in KwaZulu-Natal prepares to take their fight to court to gain the same status as him.
The Amahlubi tribe, led by Inkosi Langalibalele II from Bergville in the uThukela district, is heading to the North Gauteng High Court.
They want the court to review the 2010 Nhlapho Commission Report, which dealt with traditional leadership disputes. Their court hearing is set for Friday, 18 October, in Pretoria.
The Amahlubi argue that the report, announced by former president Jacob Zuma, wrongfully stated that their kingship was not due for restoration.
At the time, Zuma declared King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu as the only king in KwaZulu-Natal, a decision supported by then KZN Premier, Dr Zweli Mkhize.
Several other groups who challenged the Nhlapho Commission’s report also failed. One was Prince Melizwe Dlamini, a relative of the Zulu royal family, who sought the same recognition as King Zwelithini.
After losing his bid, he was left isolated, losing business opportunities, investments, and even being excluded from government events. Melizwe died in 2021, destitute as a result.
Inkosi Mabhudu Tembe, another claimant, withdrew his case and reconciled with the Zulu monarchy.
But the Amahlubi tribe insists their case is not about undermining other kingdoms. Instead, they see this as an attempt to correct the historical wrongs imposed by the British in 1873.
“Our kingdom was overthrown by the British in 1873 when King Langalibalele I refused to surrender guns bought by his men. He was then sent to Robben Island as the first prisoner,” the Amahlubi said in a statement.
They added that their current king, Langalibalele II, has been on the throne since 1974.
Historically, the Amahlubi were known for helping Inkosi Dingiswayo Mthethwa, who later played a key role in guiding King Shaka in uniting the Zulu nation.
Pictured above: Amahlubi King Langalibalele II with former Botswana president Ian Khama.
Source: X
