As I recall from my African History class, the Zimbabwean Kings of Old were chosen from the general population based on their popularity - the most popular became the new King. Sort of like electing a President these days here in the US.
During their reign, each King was allowed to do and have whatever he wanted/wished. Then, after some time, maybe a year or so, the King was publicly executed, and the search for a new King would begin again.
And so it goes ...
:-)
Love that Zimbabwe tradition.