Zulu King's Third Marriage Faces Legal Turmoil Amidst Scandals

In a dramatic twist, the first wife of South Africa's Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has failed to legally prevent him from marrying a third wife, igniting further controversy amidst ongoing royal scandals.

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, who ascended to the throne just over two years ago, finds himself embroiled in a legal battle that has put his marital plans in jeopardy. His first wife, Queen Ntokozo kaMayisela, attempted to halt his impending marriage to Nomzamo Myeni, claiming their existing civil union prohibits him from taking additional wives.

Despite her efforts, Judge Bongani Mngadi dismissed the application, citing that the queen had previously consented to her husband’s polygamous aspirations.

Uncertainty surrounds the king's wedding date, which had been rumored for this week. A letter supposedly from the king stated the ceremony would be postponed "due to reasons beyond the control of the royal house." However, Myeni reportedly expressed no knowledge of this development and believed the wedding was still on. Adding to the confusion, the king has asserted his commitment to Myeni, declaring his intention to marry her "by force."

Polygamy is legal in South Africa, provided such marriages are formalized as customary unions.

Complications arose when it was revealed that the royal couple had previously agreed to transition their civil marriage into a traditional one, but the king later sought a divorce, indicating a breakdown in their relationship.

King Misuzulu's troubled reign has been marred by criticism over his management of royal affairs, including the unlawful suspension of the Ingonyama Trust board and the dismissal of two senior aides in quick succession. This turmoil, paired with ongoing legal disputes questioning his royal recognition, leaves the Zulu monarchy in a precarious position.

Having been propelled to kingship following the death of his father, King Goodwill Zwelithini, during the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2021, Misuzulu's leadership remains controversial, with some South Africans challenging his legitimacy as monarch.