Who is the real king of the Zulus?

The title of the king of the Zulus has been a subject of contention, especially in modern times. As of now, the Zulu royal family recognizes King Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the reigning monarch. He ascended to the throne following the death of his father, King Goodwill Zwelithini, in March 2021. However, there are rival factions within the royal family that contest his claim, leading to disputes over the legitimacy of his rule. The title of king carries significant cultural and historical weight, making the question of who is the “real” king a complex issue intertwined with Zulu identity and heritage.