The Zulu nation, the largest ethnic group in South Africa, is witnessing a bitter succession dispute over the throne of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, who was crowned in May 2021 after the death of his father, King Goodwill Zwelithini.

King Misuzulu, 48, is the eldest son of the late king and his sixth wife, Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, who was also the sister of Eswatini’s King Mswati III. However, his legitimacy as the heir has been contested by his half-brother, Prince Simakade kaZwelithini, 50, who is the son of the late king and his fourth wife, Queen Thandekile Ndlovu.

Prince Simakade has filed a lawsuit in the Pretoria High Court, seeking to nullify the will of Queen Mantfombi, who named King Misuzulu as the successor before she died in April 2021, just a month after her husband. Prince Simakade claims that the will was forged and that he is the rightful heir according to the Zulu customary law.

He also challenges the decision of President Cyril Ramaphosa, who recognized King Misuzulu as the Zulu king in June 2021, following the recommendation of the Zulu Royal Family Council. Prince Simakade argues that the president acted unlawfully and prematurely, as there were still pending disputes within the royal family.

The court case, which began on October 17, 2023, has drawn much attention and divided the Zulu nation. Hundreds of supporters of King Misuzulu, including traditional warriors known as amabutho and maidens, have gathered outside the court, singing and dancing in a show of solidarity. They have also accused Prince Simakade of being a puppet of the ANC, the ruling party in South Africa, which they claim is trying to interfere in the affairs of the Zulu monarchy.

On the other hand, Prince Simakade has also received backing from some members of the royal family, such as Princess Ntandoyenkosi kaZwelithini and Prince Mbonisi kaZwelithini, who are also challenging King Misuzulu’s ascension. They have accused King Misuzulu of being disrespectful and arrogant, and of ignoring the wishes of his father, who allegedly wanted a regent to be appointed until a consensus was reached on the successor.

The court case is expected to last for three days, and the judge will have to weigh the evidence and arguments from both sides, as well as the implications of the ruling for the stability and unity of the Zulu nation. The outcome could also have political ramifications, as the Zulu king is a revered and influential figure, who commands the loyalty of millions of people in South Africa and beyond.