By Celani Sikhakhane
After claiming his signature had been forged, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s aide has told Scrolla.Africa His Majesty did in fact sign the letter to remove the chair of the Ingonyama Trust board (ITB).
On Monday, the king claimed in a statement that his own private assistant, Sibongile Mdletshe, had sent a two-page letter recommending the dismissal of ITB chairperson Inkosi Thanduyise Mzimela to the office of the KwaZulu-Natal premier.
The king denied that the letter had come from him, claiming sensationally that his signature had been forged.
Unconfirmed rumours soon spread that Mdletshe had conspired with select politicians and entrepreneurs to tap into the ITB funds. To achieve this, Mzimela had to be removed and that is why the letter was sent.
Responding to the allegations, Mdletshe told Scrolla.Africa that she witnessed the king signing the letter, and was shocked that she had been blamed.
“I went to the king on Friday to sign the letter. That is all I know about this whole matter and I am surprised by the allegations that are now levelled against me,” she said.
“Let’s allow the investigation to take place.”
King Misuzulu’s spokesperson, Prince Afrika Zulu, strongly rejects Mdletshe’s claims.
He emphasises that on the day in question, the king spent time exclusively with Queen Ntokozo kaMayisela. Prince Afrika has demanded Mdletshe’s arrest for potential fraud.
“Mdletshe’s insinuations imply that the king is untruthful. The king remains firm. He recognises nothing about this letter,” Prince Afrika said.
On Tuesday, another letter surfaced which similarly stated the removal of Mzimela from the ITB. The letter, which has been seen by Scrolla.Africa, disclosed the change in leadership to Minister of Agriculture and Land Reform, Thoko Didiza. It also declares Inkosi Mabhudu Tembe as Mzimela’s successor.
It appears to have come from the king, but his spokesperson declined to confirm its authenticity.
Pictured above: King Misuzulu kaZwelithini
Image source: Supplied
