The Bulawayo High Court has set aside the appointment of Zanele Khumalo as Regent Chief Mabhikwa, ruling in favour of applicant John Khumalo in a judgment that reopens the long-running succession dispute within the Mabhikwa chieftaincy.
Justice Mposeni Dube handed down the ruling, declaring that the courts have no jurisdiction to determine disputes over traditional leadership appointments. He referred the matter back to the Chief’s Council — the body mandated to resolve chieftaincy succession issues.
In delivering the judgment, Justice Dube noted that Zanele’s appointment was irregular. The court highlighted that clan leaders allegedly sidelined the Mabhikwa-Khumalo family, and further observed that the President’s appointment notice referred only to a “regent” rather than a substantive chief.
The succession battle stems from the 2022 death of Chief Vusumuzi Khumalo. Following his passing, Zanele was appointed regent to preside over the chieftaincy on behalf of his then nine-year-old son, Wayne. However, 32 members of the Mlonyeni-Khumalo-Mabhikwa family contested the appointment, arguing it was unlawful and ignored established traditions.
In his affidavit, John Khumalo argued that neither the Traditional Leaders Act nor the Constitution recognises the position of a regent chief. He said the proper succession process — confirmed by a 2009 High Court ruling — was not followed.
John further contended that the Mabhikwa chieftaincy has never been passed to a woman, insisting Zanele’s appointment created serious divisions within the family and the broader community. He also raised cultural concerns, pointing out that Zanele is married into another family, which he said could complicate expectations around a chief’s residence, cultural duties, and obligations to the clan.
The ruling effectively resets the succession process, placing responsibility back with the Chief’s Council to guide the way forward for the Mabhikwa throne.
Source : Ezra Tshisa Sibanda
