Sekeletu

Sekeletu (also sometimes spelled Sekelutu) was the second king of the Lozi people in Barotseland (present-day Zambia), succeeding his father, Mwanawina II. His reign, occurring sometime in the mid-19th century, was marked by internal instability and ultimately concluded with his assassination.

His rule was characterized by his perceived weakness and ineffectiveness, leading to considerable dissatisfaction among the Lozi people. Various accounts attribute his shortcomings to factors such as youth, inexperience, and a temperament unsuited for leadership. The instability under Sekeletu's reign created opportunities for power struggles among ambitious figures within the Lozi state.

Lewanika, whose birth name was Lubosi, emerged as a prominent challenger to Sekeletu's authority. He exploited the general discontent and skillfully built a coalition of support among dissatisfied elements within the kingdom. The tensions between Sekeletu and Lewanika culminated in a revolt and the subsequent assassination of Sekeletu. Lewanika then seized power, becoming king and ushering in a new era for the Lozi people.

While Sekeletu's reign was brief and turbulent, it is a significant period in Lozi history, demonstrating the complex political dynamics and power struggles that shaped the kingdom's development. His assassination marked a turning point, paving the way for the long and influential reign of Lewanika.