By Celani Sikhakhane
- Traditional Prime Minister Thulasizwe Buthelezi led a walkout of chiefs after revealing that King Misuzulu knew nothing about the event.
- The minister of land reform has ordered an immediate investigation into the board after admitting he was also left in the dark.
A massive R10-million has allegedly been flushed down the drain.
The Ingonyama Trust Board booked the expensive Durban ICC and hotels for 283 traditional leaders for a three-day strategic meeting.
But the event fell apart on Monday.
Zulu Prime Minister Thulasizwe Buthelezi stood up and told the gathering that King Misuzulu kaZwelithini knew nothing about it.
This is despite the King being the chairperson and sole trustee of the board.
“How could you continue with such a critical meeting while there are matters that are still outstanding?” Buthelezi asked the board.
“His Majesty was never consulted at all about this meeting.”
Buthelezi then led a walkout. Many traditional leaders left the venue to join him and the royal delegation for lunch, leaving the expensive forum in ruins.
Sources told Scrolla.Africa that the cost of the failed event is estimated at R10-million. This includes the venue hire and accommodation for hundreds of guests.
The embarrassment did not stop there.
Land Reform Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso admitted he was also unaware of the meeting. He has announced an immediate investigation into the board’s activities.
Advocate Linda Zama, the deputy chairperson of the board, tried to defend the event earlier. She said it was meant to be a historic engagement to solve land issues.
Instead, it has deepened the rift between the board and the Zulu monarch.
Pictured above: The absence of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at the forum has allegedly cost the board R10-million.
Image source: Zulu Royal Kingdom
