Zulu King Zwelithini's sixth wife 'needs palace' Published duration 5 September 2012

image copyright AFP image caption King Zwelithini is regarded as the most influential traditional leader in South Africa

South Africa's Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini wants the government to spend $700,000 (£450,000) on a palace for his sixth wife, officials say.

Queen Zola Mafu, who is his youngest wife, is sharing a palace.

The KwaZulu Natal government, one of nine provincial administrations, has already budgeted about $6.9m for the royal family this year.

Opposition parties have previously accused the king, his wives and more than 25 children of lavish spending.

King Zwelithini, as leader of South Africa's largest ethnic group, is an extremely influential traditional leader in the country.

'Linen anger'

Royal household department chief financial officer, Mduduzi Mthembu, told a parliamentary committee that a further $700,000 was needed to build Queen Mafu's palace.

The department also wanted $1.4m to upgrade Queen MaMchiza's palace, he said.

Funding for the accommodation would be spread over three years, Mr Mthembu.

MPs on the committee said they would consider the request later this month.

Queen Mafu made headlines in 2004 when, as a 14-year-old, she first appeared in public with King Zwelithini.

In 2008, opposition parties criticised King Zwelithini's wives for spending about $24,000 on linen, designer clothes and costly holidays.