The royal family of the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV is expected to name a successor soon, with a crown prince set to assume leadership responsibilities until the end of the traditional mourning period.
Speaking during the burial of Mpezeni IV at ePhendukeni Palace in Chipata on June 8, Malawi’s King M’mbelwa V announced that Ngoni customary law requires the royal family to quickly nominate an heir to the Zwangendaba throne. The chosen crown prince will act in the office of the late king for one year before being officially installed as Paramount Chief.
King M’mbelwa V explained that the arrangement is meant to prevent uncertainty following the death of Mpezeni IV, who passed away at the age of 75 after ruling for 44 years. He added that no one can lawfully exercise the full powers of the throne until the traditional mourning period has ended and a formal coronation is conducted.
The Malawian monarch further revealed that he will return to ePhendukeni after the mourning period to officially install the new ruler on the throne of Zwangendaba.
Mpezeni IV, born David Njengembaso Jere, leaves behind a wife, a daughter, and thousands of subjects. King M’mbelwa V also encouraged the Ngoni people to use the mourning period to preserve their cultural traditions and continue working towards the welfare of their communities.
