![On March 21, 2021 Queen Mantfombi MaDlamini was named the interim leader of the Zulu. [PHOTO | COURTESY]](https://i0.wp.com/www.k24tv.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/ZULU-MONARCH.jpg?resize=730%2C414&ssl=1)
The third wife of late Zulu king, Goodwill Zwelithini, will pick her husband’s successor to the throne, South African media outlets have reported.
Zwelithini, who was diabetic, died of COVID-19 complications on March 12.
The late king’s third spouse, Queen Mantfombi MaDlamini, is expected to name a new king from one of her sons, South African State broadcaster, SABC, says.
On Sunday, March 21, the queen was named the interim leader of the Zulu pending the installation of a new king.
MaDlamini was settled on as the interim ruler of the Zulu Kingdom after her late spouse stipulated in his Will that he wished his third wife takes over from him, even if it means in acting capacity, news channel eNCA reported.
Senior members of the Zulu royal family are due to meet on Wednesday, March 24 to discuss the succession of the king, after an initial meeting on Saturday.
The family will give further updates after Wednesday’s meeting.
Queen Mantfombi, a sister of the current King Mswati of eSwatini (formerly known as Swaziland), is one of six wives of the late King Zwelithini.
According to Zulu royal family traditions, Mantfombi MaDlamini, 65, is considered the most senior of the king's six wives.
The monarch, who was buried on Thursday, March 18 is survived by six wives and at least 30 children, including 16 sons.
