By Celani Sikhakhane
Mayors affiliated with the IFP made a controversial decision to deliberately snub the annual prayer event of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, which was held on Saturday at kwaCeza near Nongoma.
This move has sparked tensions within the party and raised concerns about the loyalty of IFP members to their traditional leader.
According to a source, IFP mayors chose to distance themselves from the event to avoid any perception of aligning with the king instead of supporting IFP president emeritus Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
The ongoing conflict between Misuzulu and Buthelezi has created a challenging situation for the mayors. Going forward, the source claims that no IFP mayor will financially support or attend any of the king’s events.
IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa vehemently denied these allegations, stating that no such decision has been made by the party.
Hlengwa emphasised that any mayors who choose to snub the king’s event are acting on their own personal choices, unrelated to the IFP.
The rift between Misuzulu and Buthelezi has deeply affected many people in KwaZulu-Natal and the Zulu Kingdom, particularly concerning the appointment of Ingonyama Trust Board members.
Buthelezi opposed the appointment of Inkosi Thanduyise Mzimela and suggested that ANC veteran advocate Linda Zama be appointed instead. However, the king rejected Buthelezi’s recommendation.
Buthelezi has publicly expressed his disappointment, accusing Misuzulu of disrespecting him. He recounted an incident where the king slammed the table during a conversation and used the word “bullshit”.
Last week, during the prayer event, the king asked the church to pray for Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, emphasising his vital role as an elder in the Zulu Kingdom.
For the first time since Misuzulu’s ascension to the throne, IFP mayors did not attend the event organised by the king.
Previously, IFP mayors had actively supported the king through their municipalities and provided financial assistance for his events.
During the prayer, the MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Dr Ntuthuko Junda Mahlaba, pledged to refurbish properties previously used by King Dinuzulu as a sign of respect and support for the Zulu monarchy.
Pictured above: King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and Sports Arts and Culture Mec Dr Ntuthuko Junda Mahlaba during the annual prayer held at kwaCeza
Image source: Supplied
