Supporters of the late King Tswelithini KaBhekuZulu’s first son, Prince Simakade, want him to become the “umkhosi womhlanga” king.
His Majesty King Missuzulu at his coronation in Nongoma on August 20, 2022. Photo: Xanderli Mahaza/Eyewitness News
DURBAN – As the hour draws closer to this year’s main cane dance ceremony, the “umkhosi womhlanga”, uncertainty surrounds the event as the Amazulu royal family’s battle to inherit the throne intensifies.
Supporters of the late King Tswelithini KaBhekuZulu’s first son, Prince Simakade, want him to become the “umkhosi womhlanga” king.
The dance ceremony held annually at the Enyokeni Royal Palace in Nongoma is only presided over by the king.
Two weeks ago, King Misuzulu held the first stage of the reed dance at Machobeni Royal Palace in Ngwavuma, and now the main ceremony is expected to be held at the usual venue in Nongoma.
But another faction opposing the king warned him not to approach the palace.
Those who supported Prince Shimakade said he would be the one to lead the ceremony at Enyokeni Royal Palace and recognize it as his official residence.
But those behind the Missuzulu king, including traditional prime minister Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, have said all palaces belong to the reigning monarch.
It is not yet clear how the ceremony will be held as a result.
