KZN Traditional Affairs MEC appoints panel to handle traditional leaders' succession

DURBAN - KwaZulu-Natal’s Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has appointed a panel to deal with succession matters of traditional leaders in the province.

The panel is tasked with resolving the conflict between traditional leaders. It comprises senior Zulu royal family members.

The province is no stranger to traditional squabbles.

In recent months, members of the Zulu royal family have been disputing rights to the throne.  

Some members of the Zulu royal family who are opposed to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini's ascension to the throne have now been appointed by the provincial government to lead a panel that will look at succession battles.

The panel includes Prince Mbonisi Zulu - who challenged his nephew Misuzulu's appointment in court as he believes he's entitled to the throne.  

Buthelezi explained the panels duties: “I announce this panel of mediators who are experienced senior members of the royal family, who worked with the late king [Zwelithini KaBhekuzuku] for a long time in the issues of conflict management and dispute resolution.”

He added that this would restore stability in communities led by chiefs.  

“The announcement of this panel will restore stability and ensure peace in areas under amakhosi.”

Journalists were denied the opportunity to ask questions after the MEC's announcement.