Traditional leaders condemn disruption of Ingonyama Trust conference
Traditional leaders have condemned the disruption of the Ingonyama Trust Board’s Rural Economy Development and Investment Indaba at the Durban ICC.
Traditional leaders have condemned the disruptions at an investment conference held at the Durban ICC this week.
The summit on economic growth and development was held by the Ingonyama Trust Board.
Members of the Zulu regiments, known as amabutho kaZulu, stormed the meeting on Wednesday, alleging it was part of an attempt to take tribal land away from traditional leaders.
The incident follows recent concerns by Zulu King Misuzulu KaZwelithini over alleged corruption on the board.
Disruption uncalled for
But Inkosi Ngangendlovu Mchunu believes the disruption was uncalled for.
“What occurred was a disgrace, an embarrassment to the Zulu kingdom, and if we as traditional leaders ignore it, then we would be opening a pathway for such to happen again.”
He also criticised those who led the protest.
“What is most painful is that those who led the protest, Mr Ndabe Bandawa and Mr Mkunu both come under tribal authority,” he said.
Regiments leader Nkosikhona Ndabandaba says they plan to meet with the Amakhosi to explain their actions and what motivated them.
“We have these super rich people who have a mission to take the land from, the only land in KZN, the little land which belongs to Amakhosi they want to take it in the name of investments.
“What is sad is that some of Amakhosi are not aware of what is happening they are just happy to here the word investment.”
Ndabandaba says they only stopped their protest out of respect for the chiefs who were attending the meeting.
Changes in leadership
The Zulu king is sole trustee of the board.
Ever since his ascension to the throne, Zulu King Misuzulu has raised concerns about the board and has claimed there are attempts to sideline traditional leaders from playing active roles on the board.
Three years ago, he removed the Trust's longest serving chairperson Judge Jerome Ngwenya and appointed Inkosi Thanduyise Mzimela as new chair.
The monarch later made a U-turn and appointed himself to the position.
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