Celani Sikhakhane
The Zulu royal family members who have been fighting over the rightful heir to the throne have put their hope in Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.
The minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) had an introductory meeting with former KZN premier Willies Mchunu, where they met with the royal family members to discuss the way forward over the dispute of the throne.
Princess Thembi Zulu Ndlovu, the royal rebel aunt, told Scrolla.Africa they hope that the meeting will bring unity and peace to the Zulu family.
“We met with the panel that was appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa. We are looking forward to discussing important issues that will include restarting the process to nominate the King,” said Princess Thembi.
Ramaphosa confirmed this on Saturday while campaigning in Mbumbulu, south of Durban.
“The matter is being handled and, because it involves royals, it needs to be dealt with sensitivity, with great care and without publicising the very sensitive issues,” he said.
The Zulu nation anticipates the official coronation of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini by the national government but disputes between royal family members have caused delays.
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi said the meeting for all the members of the royal family will be announced by the king.
“It emerged during the introductory meeting that there were more than one claimant contesting the throne. The identity of these claimants was not discussed,” said Buthelezi.
The royal rebel faction, which is led by Princess Thembi and Prince Mbonisi, wants Misuzulu to be contested by his half brothers, Prince Simakade and Prince Buzabazi.
The issue has caused divisions, which have forced the provincial government to pull funding from the Zulu nation’s annual events and the king’s upkeep.
