Prepare for smooth succession, Mzimba chiefs told

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Kondwani Nankhumwa says his ministry is worried over chieftaincy wrangles in the country.  He said the situation is challenging when it comes to installation of  an heir to the throne.

The minister raised the concern on Tuesday in Mzimba during the installation of Inkosi Mzukuzuku at a cultural event at Ephangweni headquarters in the district.

Nankhumwa gave the example of the Mzukuzuku chieftaincy, whose members took each other to court for the past 16 years.

Currently, the Mzikubola chieftaincy in the district is also rocked by succession disputes.

Said Nankhumwa:   “It is a great concern that we are having situations where succession processes are taking long because some members of the royal families fight and drag each other to court over chieftaincy. Such disputes delay development. Sixteen years of disputes is a long time. We cannot develop.”

He advised families to resolve issues among themselves before rushing to the court.

“Let me call upon you Inkosi M’mbelwa V and all paramount chiefs in the country to help us by solving these secessions issues because court cases take too long,” said Nankhumwa.

Inkosi ya Makhosi M’mbelwa V advised all Ngoni chiefs in the district to prepare themselves for a smooth succession.

The newly-installed inkosi Mzukuzuku was born Mlonyeni Mordechai Jere.