By Celani Sikhakhane
The highest court in South Africa has ruled that King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s partner isn’t the rightful ruler of the amaMpondo in the Eastern Cape.
On October 3, eight judges led by Justice Zukiswa Tshiqi rejected Princess Wezizwe Sigcau’s claim to the amaMpondo throne.
The court backed the late King Zanozuko Sigcau’s position as amaMpondo king, which the president confirmed in 2018.
It overturned a lower court’s decision that had made Princess Wezizwe queen. The judges said the lower court made mistakes in its ruling.
“Firstly, it ignored its own rule of respecting the decisions of expert groups like the one in this case. Also… the court ‘mixed up two different types of legal challenges’.”
The judges stressed how important the amaMpondo kingship is for keeping the community together.
The ruling means Zanozuko is still recognised as king, even though he died in 2022. His replacement will be chosen following traditional and legal rules.
“Even though a new ruler needs to be found, this will happen knowing that Zanozuko was the recognised king.”
Princess Wezizwe is the mother of Prince Jubezizwe, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s oldest son.
The amaMpondo had no problems choosing rulers until King Mandlonke died young in 1937 without an heir.
His brothers, Prince Nelson and Prince Botha, were suggested as replacements, leading to arguments.
The government at the time chose Botha as king.
When Botha died in 1978, another fight started between Botha and Nelson’s sons.
Pictured above: Princess Wezizwe Sigcau and son Jubezizwe kaMisuzulu kaZwelithini.
Source: X
