South African Man Marries 4 Women at Same Time

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published: September 26, 2009
Filed at 11:15 a.m. ET

WEENEN, South Africa (AP) -- Milton Mbhele showed up for his wedding Saturday in a white limousine -- with four brides.

South African law recognizes traditional polygamous marriages -- even President Jacob Zuma has three wives. Yet while polygamy remains common among several tribes including the Zulus and Swazis, simultaneous weddings are rare.

Mbhele, 44, a municipal manager in nearby Indaka, said the joint celebration would save money by combining the festivities. A traditional ceremony was planned for Sunday and there is to be a traditional exchange of gifts between the groom and his wives' families on Monday.

Mbhele has already been married to Thobile Vilakazi for 12 years and has 11 children, but did not specify who their mothers are.


South African Man Marries 4 Women at Same Time