By Phenyo Selinda
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has introduced a new Conflict Mediation Panel, comprised of members of the royal family, aimed at resolving the escalating succession disputes in areas under amakhosi. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the long-standing challenges that have plagued various royal families across the province.
The Conflict Mediation Panel, which includes royal children, was officially appointed by MEC Buthelezi with the primary goal of leveraging the panel’s deep understanding of traditional practices and cultural authority to mediate and resolve disputes within the royal households. During a media briefing on Thursday, Buthelezi highlighted the crucial role the panel will play in bringing peace and stability to regions affected by these disputes.
Buthelezi noted that the late AmaZulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, had initiated a process during his reign in which the royal family took on the responsibility of resolving disputes and fostering reconciliation where succession issues arose. This panel, he explained, is a continuation of the late King’s vision for maintaining harmony within the traditional leadership structures.
“Their dedication to this crucial task will have a positive impact and restore peace and stability in izizwe zamakhosi that have been torn apart by succession disputes. The introduction of this team, which comprises senior members of the royal family, will strengthen the institution of traditional leadership within our province and enhance the work of amakhosi,” Buthelezi said.
The Role of the Conflict Mediation Panel
The KZN Traditional Leadership and Governance Act 5 of 2005 grants the CoGTA MEC oversight over all matters related to the institution of traditional leadership. In line with this mandate, Buthelezi has empowered the Conflict Mediation Panel to address the succession disputes that have disrupted the stability of traditional communities under amakhosi.
The panel is led by uMntwana uMathubesizwe kaBhekuzulu, a brother of the late King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, alongside other royal siblings including uMntwana uMbonisi kaBhekuzulu, uMntwana uVulindlela kaBhekuzulu, uMntwana uMxolisi kaBhekuzulu, and Princess Lindi kaBhekuzulu. Their deep-rooted knowledge of Zulu customs and traditions, coupled with their personal experience in conflict resolution, positions them as key figures in this mediation effort.
Additionally, the panel includes uMntwana uThuthukani kaMcwayizeni kaSolomon, Inyosi uBuzetsheni Mdletshe (the King’s praise singer), and Reverend Canon Hamilton Mbatha. These members bring a wealth of cultural wisdom and spiritual guidance to the table, ensuring that the mediation process is comprehensive and culturally sensitive.
Addressing the Disputes
The families of amakhosi embroiled in succession disputes will work closely with this newly appointed team. Buthelezi assured that CoGTA would remain actively engaged with these families to facilitate the resolution process. The MEC expressed confidence that the Conflict Mediation Panel’s intervention would not only resolve existing disputes but also prevent future conflicts, thereby preserving the integrity of traditional leadership in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Their dedication to this crucial task will have a positive impact and restore peace and stability in izizwe zamakhosi that have been torn apart by succession disputes. The introduction of this team, which comprises senior members of the royal family, will strengthen the institution of traditional leadership within our province and enhance the work of amakhosi,” Buthelezi reiterated during the briefing
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