Misuzulu ka Zwelithini is set to take the throne months after royals launched a legal challenge.
After a year-long family feud, Misuzulu ka Zwelithini is finally to be crowned Zulu king in a traditional ceremony in South Africa on Saturday.
He is expected to wear the hide of the lion that he hunted for the royal event, a key feat in proving he is indeed the chosen one. More than 10 cows have been slaughtered in preparation for the festivities.The throne has no formal political power, but a fifth of South Africa's population is Zulu and its monarchy remains hugely influential with a yearly taxpayer-funded budget of more than $4.9m .
But this latest saga, following the death of King Goodwill Zwelithini ka Bhekuzulu more than a year ago, has been an embarrassing public spectacle. Queen Mantfombi held the highest status among the king's wives, because she came from royalty - her father was the late King Sobhuza II and her brother was King Mswati III of Eswatini.
What's more, the fact that Prince Misuzulu was the only person to inherit the traditional weapons of his grandfather King Cyprian Bhekuzulu ka Solomon was seen as an endorsement that he would eventually take over from his father.The royal family has split into three factions, each backing their preferred prince - Misuzulu ka Zwelithini, Simakade ka Zwelithini and Buzabazi ka Zwelithini.
Meanwhile, three of King Zwelithini's brothers called a news conference on Thursday to announce Prince Buzabazi as their choice, claiming he of all sons had the closest relationship with his father.
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