Amid ongoing tensions within the Zulu Royal Family, the surviving siblings of the late King Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu are set to reveal the royal house’s family tree, a move that could further ignite disputes over the rightful heir to the throne.
In a statement from JG & Xulu Attorneys, representing some of the siblings, the family expressed that since the passing of King Zwelithini, the Zulu Royal Family has struggled to mourn peacefully.
The statement cited the contested succession debate, which has become a prominent issue in the royal family.
“The entire country watched in disbelief as the issue produced battles for power among would-be contenders,” the statement noted.
“The claim to the throne became a battlefield, leading to various court proceedings that have played out in the public arena, some of which are still pending. The royal family has truly been plunged into chaos, often marked by embarrassing moments caused by internal divisions.”
“Sources close to the family have indicated that the ongoing disputes are particularly distressing for the late king’s surviving siblings, who view the rift as a disservice to King Zwelithini’s legacy and the entire Zulu Royal Family.
“The surviving siblings have provided leadership behind the scenes throughout this challenging period.”
In what is expected to be a watershed moment for the Zulu Royal Family, the attorneys for the siblings said that the siblings plan to address the Zulu nation, and the public to discuss “family unity and present a vision for the future” adding that the focus will be on clarifying the bloodline and protocols of the Zulu Royal Throne.
They assured the public that members would be informed about the truth regarding the contested throne.
When contacted for comment, Zanemvula Ndamase, Acting Advisor to His Majesty King Misuzulu KaZwelithini, stated that the king was unaware of the media briefing.
“His Majesty will be hosting an event in partnership with SANRAL and the Department of Transport in Isandlwana on Friday to launch the construction of the road leading to Isandlwana Mountain. On Saturday, there is Umkhosi Wamaganu at Emashobeni Royal Palace. These are the current events on the Royal Diary,” Ndamase said.
The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal which supports and promotes the role of traditional leadership and also helps to resolve disputes between traditional leaders did not respond to enquieries from the publication.
The royal house remains divided over the rightful ruler of the Zulu nation, with Prince Simakade KaZwelithini Zulu and some family members declaring him the legitimate king, despite President Cyril Ramaphosa’s official recognition of Prince Misuzulu as the Zulu king.
However, in December 2023, the High Court in Pretoria set aside Ramaphosa’s recognition of Misuzulu, following applications by Prince Mbonisi Zulu and Misuzulu’s half-brother, Prince Simakade Zulu, to review a meeting held in May 2021 where the appointment was made.
Judge Norman Davis ruled that the process was flawed, unlawful, and invalid, ordering Ramaphosa to appoint an investigative committee as stipulated by the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, along with a cost order against the president.
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