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Three of Zambia’s most senior traditional leaders have asked the Constitutional Court to join proceedings over Chief Mukuni’s bid to be recognised as a Paramount Chief, arguing that the outcome could fundamentally reshape the country’s traditional leadership system.
His Royal Highness the Chitimukulu, His Royal Highness the Litunga and His Royal Highness Kalonga Gawa Undi have each applied to be joined as interested parties, contending that the petition raises issues of national importance that extended beyond Southern Province.
In separate applications, the three Paramount Chiefs argued that any decision recognising a new Paramount Chief would have far-reaching implications for the institution of traditional leadership across Zambia.
The Chitimukulu, Henry Kanyanta Sosala, through an affidavit, warned that granting the relief sought by the Mukuni Royal Dynasty Committee could encourage junior chiefs to challenge established traditional authorities.
“I am concerned by this action as it has the potential of opening a Pandora’s box for any disgruntled or ambitious junior chiefs throughout Zambia who may challenge or rebel against long-established traditional authorities such as my chiefdom and other Paramount Chiefs,” he stated.
He argued that such a development would undermine the institution of chieftaincy, weaken traditional authority and threaten national stability.
Kalonga Gawa Undi Mkhomo V, whose civil name is Fredrick Daka, said he also has a direct interest in the matter because, as Paramount Chief of the Chewa people in Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique, he exercises customary authority over 214 senior chiefs, chiefs and sub-chiefs across the three countries.
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He argued that recognising a new Paramount Chief without regard to established customary systems could destabilise traditional structures that have existed for more than 200 years.
He further noted that Chief Mukuni is one of about 40 chiefs in Southern Province.
The applications arise from a petition filed by the Mukuni Royal Dynasty Committee, through its Director General Jonas Shakafuswa, seeking a declaration that Chief Munokalya Mupotola IV Siloka III Mukuni XIX should be officially recognised by the Government as a Paramount Chief.
The committee argued that Chief Mukuni’s continued classification as an ordinary chief was unconstitutional and rooted in colonial-era legislation.
It is asking the Constitutional Court to order the Government to accord Chief Mukuni the status, privileges, protocol and benefits of a Paramount Chief, together with any consequential administrative changes.
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