Mthatha - AbaThembu king Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's 22-year-old son could succeed his father, if the monarch is jailed over a 2009 culpable homicide conviction, The Star reported on Friday.

Dalindyebo's council and AmaDlomo clan spokesman Mfundo Mtirara said the family were preparing for a "worst-case scenario".

"We will have to call a meeting of the Dlomo clan. If he doesn't come back, we don't have a choice but to get his son to rule."

He said that Azenathi Dalindyebo would have no choice but to become king.

In 2009, the AbaThembu king was convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison for culpable homicide, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, arson, and kidnapping. He has since been out on bail.

Mtirara said that the king's appeal has lapsed, and that the State had also lodged an appeal, which was subsequently withdrawn.

Last month, the presidency said President Jacob Zuma had asked Dalindyebo to make representations on why his recognition certificate as king should not be withdrawn, following a request from the AmaThembu royal family.