Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu has been appointed as the regent of the Zulu nation’s leader pending appointment of a successor the late King Zwelithini’s successor.
Queen Mantfombi, the Swati princess, is the late King, Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuZulu’s most senior wife. As such, MaDlamini-Zulu has been select as regent of the Zulu nation while the nation awaits the appointment of the King’s successor. The family of the monarchy released a statement announcing the devlopment.
The Queen is the daughter of the late King Sobuza and sister of King Mswati of eSwatini. The 64 year old Queen Madlamini is also expected to appoint the successor of her late husband’s throne. She is one of the late King’s 6 wives. She was betrothed to King Zwelithini having been born into the Swazi Royal Family. They married in 1977 in a marriage that was said to be an alliance of the Swati and Zulus, with her becoming the Zulu King’s third wife. Athough she is the third wife, she remains senior by virtue of her royal background. The queen has 8 sons but the eldest, Prince Misuzulu, is expected to take up the throne of the Zulu nation.
Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu appointed as interim leader of AmaZulu
However, final arrangements following the King’s death will be discussed after the reading of his will as highlighted in a statement from the monarch’s family.
“A meeting of senior members of the Royal Family was held at KwaKhethomthandayo Palace on Saturday where various matters were discussed, including matters related to His Majesty’s will. It was decided that a meeting will be held on Wednesday morning with His majesty’s lawyers. This is where the matter stands at present. Further updates will be provided after Wednesday’s meeting.”
The process to determine who the successor of the King’s throne may take a long time be it months or a year, during which Mantfombi will be at the helm of the Zulu nation.
Dr Mazibuko from the University of Kwazulu Natal highlighted the importance of Queens in the Zulu nation. “The Queens have a huge role to play. Even when the King is late. They are the backbone and advisers of the nation. Most of the ceremonies that are held rely on the information provided by the Queens. They also have programs that they run which they have to preserve even when the King has passes on for the Nation to grow.”