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(3)
The general rule is that every umphakatsi (Chief’s residence) is headed by a Chief
who is appointed by iNgwenyama after the Chief has been selected by the lusendvo (family
council) and shall vacate office in like manner.
(4)
The position of a Chief as a local head of one or more areas is usually hereditary and
is regulated by Swazi law and custom.
(5)
Unless the situation otherwise requires, a chief shall assume office at the age of
eighteen years or so soon thereafter as the period of mourning comes to an end.
(6)
A Chief, as a symbol of unity and a father of the community, does not take part in
partisan politics.
(7)
A Chief may be appointed to any public office for which the Chief may be otherwise
qualified.
(8)
The powers and functions of chiefs are in accordance with Swazi law and custom or
conferred by Parliament or iNgwenyama from time to time.
(9)
In the exercise of the functions and duties of his office a Chief enforces a custom,
tradition, practice or usage which is just and not discriminatory.
Umntfwanenkhosi Lomkhulu (Senior Prince)
234.
Umntfwanenkhosi Lomkhulu is a paternal uncle of the King selected and appointed in
accordance with Swazi law and custom.
Tindvuna
235.
(1)
Traditionally Swaziland has a number of tindvuna or governors in charge of the
regiments and the royal villages.
(2)
The Indvuna of the Ndlovukazi’s residence is the first-amongst-equals or governorgeneral.
(3)
The position of an indvuna is not strictly hereditary even though appointment is made
within a limited range of leading commoner families.
(4)
Tindvuna assist in the traditional government of the country by carrying out certain
decisions and advising iNgwenyama or Ndlovukazi in various other respects.
(5)
Tindvuna hear cases, give judgments and advise on the temper of the nation,
organise labour for the royal fields and ensure that the royal kraals and villages are
periodically repaired.
(6)
Tindvuna also facilitate access to iNgwenyama or Ndlovukazi to those seeking royal
audience.
(7)
The Tindvuna of the royal residences will normally have a small council to consult
before taking a decision.
CHAPTER XV
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
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