Amazulu Queen Ntokozo
By Nkosana Khumalo
AmaZulu Queen Ntokozo kaMayisela has approached the Pietermaritzburg High Court to file an urgent interdict against King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s planned marriage to Queen Nomzamo Myeni, scheduled for 26 January 2025. This legal action comes amidst ongoing divorce proceedings between Queen Ntokozo and the King, raising questions about the validity of the new union under South African bigamy laws. The Queen argues that the King cannot legally marry another woman while still married to her under civil law.
According to court documents submitted by Queen Ntokozo, the King is set to perform umkhehlo, a traditional ceremony involving the exchange of vows between the two families at Queen Myeni’s home in Jozini on 24 January. This would be followed by a traditional wedding ceremony led by the Nazareth Baptist Church two days later. King Misuzulu’s spokesperson, Prince Simphiwe Zulu, has confirmed the dates of this “historic” traditional wedding, despite the ongoing divorce proceedings.
Key Details from Court Documents
1. Existing Civil Marriage: Queen Ntokozo has stated that she is married to King Misuzulu under civil law and in community of property. This marriage has not yet been legally dissolved, making any subsequent marriage legally void under South African law. This is detailed in Annexure “QN1.”
2. King’s Wedding Plans: The Queen confirmed in her affidavit that the King has approached another woman (Queen Nomzamo Myeni) and proposed marriage, which the woman has accepted. The King has already made wedding arrangements, including setting a date for the ceremony and sending out invitation letters marked Annexure “QN2.” A video announcement of the marriage is also referenced in the court papers.
3. Family Meeting Postponed: The Queen revealed that a meeting was initially scheduled to discuss the King’s plans to marry Queen Myeni, but this meeting was postponed to February, after the planned wedding date. This correspondence is included as Annexure “QN3.”
4. Pending Divorce Proceedings: The court papers disclose that the King has served the Queen with divorce papers, which are still pending. The Queen asserts that their civil marriage remains valid until the divorce is finalized, as indicated in Annexure “QN4.”
5. Irreparable Harm: In her application for an interdict, Queen Ntokozo argues that allowing the wedding to proceed will bring “irreparable harm” to her and their family, including potential public embarrassment and legal complications. She notes that she has a legal right as the King’s civil law wife to seek protection from the court.
6. Balance of Convenience: The Queen emphasizes that granting the interdict would not prejudice the King, as he would still be able to marry Queen Myeni once their civil marriage is lawfully terminated.
Statement from Queen Ntokozo
In a detailed letter addressed to the Ndlu-Nkulu (Great House) Queen Ntokozo wrote:
• “I humbly submit that the Respondent herein cannot enter into a civil marriage, and/or a customary marriage whilst our civil marriage still subsists.”
• She further expressed concern about the King’s decision to proceed with the marriage before finalizing their divorce, stating, “The Ngonyama [King] should uphold and respect both civil and customary laws as a symbol of unity and integrity for the Zulu nation.”
The letter, issued through the Kamaskolo Foundation, outlines the cultural and legal dilemmas faced by the royal family. It appeals to both the family and the King to uphold the law to avoid public and familial discord.
The Upcoming Wedding
Despite the ongoing legal challenge, plans for the marriage appear to be moving forward. The umkhehlo ceremony, an important Zulu tradition where families exchange vows, is scheduled for 24 January in Jozini. The official wedding, led by the Nazareth Baptist Church, is set for 26 January. The King’s spokesperson has described the event as “historic,” emphasizing its cultural significance for the Zulu monarchy.
Legal Implications and Public Reaction and Family Dynamics
Legal experts have pointed out the challenges of navigating traditional customs and civil law within the royal family. While the Zulu royal family operates under a mix of traditional and contemporary legal frameworks, any marriage registered under civil law must comply with South Africa’s bigamy regulations. Queen Ntokozo’s application has brought this issue to the forefront, with significant implications for the monarchy’s public image.
Reports from insiders suggest that tensions within the royal family have escalated in recent months. Sources close to Queen Ntokozo allege that her exclusion from key royal events throughout 2024 reflected a growing rift.
The Queen’s Final Plea
Queen Ntokozo reiterated her desire for lawful proceedings, stating that she is not opposed to the King taking another wife but insists that it must happen after their marriage is legally dissolved. She emphasized the importance of the Zulu royal family setting an example by respecting both civil and customary laws.
Next Steps and Legal Proceedings
The Pietermaritzburg High Court will soon hear the case and decide whether the interdict will be granted. Should the court rule in favour of Queen Ntokozo, King Misuzulu will have to postpone or cancel his planned wedding to Queen Nomzamo Myeni.
This case is expected to influence the interpretation of civil marriage laws and their application to South Africa’s culturally diverse communities. As South Africans await the court’s decision, the AmaZulu royal household remains at the centre of national discourse.
This developing story
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