Tensions Arise Within Family After Zanele Mbokazi’s Passing
Just over a month after the death of renowned radio personality and Crown Gospel Awards founder, Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, tensions are reportedly rising within her family. According to reports from ZiMoja, her widower, Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, is being sidelined by certain family members as he tries to preserve his late wife’s legacy.
Bishop Nkambule, who has been actively involved in continuing Zanele’s work, particularly the Crown Gospel Awards, is facing resistance from some of her relatives. Earlier this month, Nkambule, along with other members of the Crown Gospel Awards team, held a press conference to confirm that the prestigious event will continue as planned, despite Zanele’s absence. However, the bishop’s efforts are not being met with unanimous support from the family, according to an insider.
### Family Tensions and Questions of Legacy
A source close to the situation revealed to ZiMoja that some of Zanele’s family members are questioning Bishop Nkambule’s continued involvement in her affairs. The source stated, “Certain family members are asking why he is still here when Zanele is no longer around. They’ve even suggested that he should return to his country of birth, eSwatini.”
This apparent division highlights the complex emotions that often accompany the death of a loved one, particularly when matters of legacy and inheritance are involved. While some relatives are reportedly pushing for Nkambule’s departure, others remain supportive of his role in the family.
### The Bishop’s Role and Challenges
Despite the friction, Bishop Nkambule continues to hold his position as the head of the household, and according to sources, his stepchildren respect him and appreciate his efforts to honor their mother’s legacy. “As with any family, there are bound to be disagreements, especially when it comes to matters of death and money. But it’s clear that the bishop deeply loved his wife, and he just wants to make sure that what she built continues,” the source explained.
The bishop’s determination to carry forward Zanele’s legacy has not wavered, even as he faces internal family struggles. He is particularly focused on ensuring the success of the upcoming Crown Gospel Awards, which are scheduled for November 17.
### A Legacy at Stake
Another insider mentioned that the family is currently working to put on a united front, especially as they seek additional sponsorships for the Crown Gospel Awards and the other projects Zanele had been working on before her death. The awards have become a significant platform for recognizing gospel talent in South Africa, and Zanele’s passing has only intensified the importance of preserving the event’s prestige.
In the midst of these family tensions, it remains clear that Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule’s legacy is something many are passionate about protecting, even if disagreements arise over how that should be done. Bishop Nkambule’s role in continuing her work will likely be a point of contention for some time, but his commitment to honoring his late wife appears steadfast.
For now, the family must navigate their differences while keeping Zanele’s vision alive.
