Tribal elders have endorsed Nelson Mandela's grandson, Mandla, as the new legitimate head of the Mandela family, despite eldest daughter Makaziwe being punted for the position by Winnie Madikizela-Mandela as it was reported Wednesday night.
"Whether we like Mandla or not, he is the only person we are looking to for the leadership of the Mandela family,'' AbaThembu royal spokesman Mfundo Mtirara said yesterday.
He was speaking in response to Madikizela-Mandela's announcement this week that Makaziwe Mandela was now head of the family.
On Wednesday night Madikizela-Mandela refuted media reports of feuding in the Mandela family.
"In accordance with customary law and tradition, the eldest daughter, Makaziwe Mandela, will head the family with the support of her two sisters," she said.
But Mtirara said yesterday that Makaziwe could not lead the family.
"Leadership goes from father to son. We respect Makaziwe as the eldest daughter. She is expected to guide and advise Mandla," he said.
Nkosi Xolile Ndevu, general secretary of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of SA, said Mandla was the heir to the leadership of the Mandela family.
"Traditionally, there is no way Makaziwe can head the family. Mandla has the responsibility to head the family.
"His duty is to convene and chair family meetings. Mafungwashe (first-born daughter) does not lead any traditional ceremonies," he said.