As king Misuzulu kaZwelithini finalises consultations with senior royal family members on the appointment of his new traditional prime minister, Inkosi Zuzifa Buthelezi of the KwaPhindangene royal house has emerged as the favourite for the position.

Buthelezi, the son of the late prime minister, inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi is said to be favoured by many royals who have reportedly convinced the king to entrust him with the position.

Inkosi Buthelezi, who is currently a member of parliament for the IFP is said to be also enjoying the support of many traditional leaders across the province.

A senior prince in the royal family, who spoke on condition of anonymity,said yesterday that although the king will have the final word, Buthelezi’s name has been agreed upon by many royals.

The source said Buthelezi will be first announced as the convener of the royal council, a structure of royals that advises the king on various matters.

“The king is still applying his mind, however, in all likelihood, His Majesty will give the position to inkosi Zuzi. He has the support of all of us in the royal family but for now Buthelezi will be appointed as the convener of the royal family members and eventually ascend to the prime minister’s position.

"He has already been requested to come to His Majesty who will officially inform him about his appointment to a convener’s position,” said the prince.

Inkosi Buthelezi’s name had previously been mentioned, even prior to the king appointing Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi at the commemoration ceremony of the battle of Isandlwana in January 2023.

With Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi’s unceremonious removal, Zuzifa Buthelezi again emerged as the frontrunner for the position.

Other names also thrown into the ring were those of former Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize as well as the current deputy traditional prime minister inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza. Mkhize and inkosi had a close relationship with the late king Goodwill Zwelithini.

The king has recently recommended that Mkhize serve in the 12-member committee that will investigate the Ingonyama Trust Board.

Zuzifa Buthelezi refused to comment on the matter, saying he has not been informed of any appointment, however he said his late father impressed on him that if there was a call of duty from the king or amakhosi, he would have to accept without hesitation.

The position has been vacant since December after the king removed Thulasizwe Buthelezi, however, the king left many scratching their heads when he recently asked Buthelezi to convene an imbizo (gathering), which is the duty of the prime minister.

willem.phungula@inl.co.za