Abigail Visagie

BLOEMFONTEIN - The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein on 28 and 29 May heard arguments in the long-standing dispute between King Misizulu ka Zwelithini of the AmaZulu nation and his older brother, Prince Simakade.

The case revolves around the validity of President Cyril Ramaphosa's recognition of King Misizulu, which was declared invalid by the Pretoria High Court in December 2023.

Prince Simakade contests the president's recognition, citing failure to follow correct procedures. The president's legal team counters that the prince was not a party to the previous court case in KwaZulu-Natal and that the traditional and legal processes were properly followed.

He says the president's recognition of King Misizulu was flawed due to non-compliance with customary law and customs.

Both parties are expected to submit further applications to the Supreme Court of Appeal by June 4. Despite the high stakes, Chief Commander Sipho Mhlongo, representing the king, has assured that the situation will remain peaceful regardless of the outcome.

The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the AmaZulu nation and the broader traditional leadership landscape in South Africa. As the court deliberates, the nation waits with bated breath for a resolution to this protracted dispute.