Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini emphasized that his recent appointments of the new traditional prime minister and deputy were grounded in informed decisions, free from political influence.
During the commemoration of the historic Battle of Isandlwane in Nquthu, northern KwaZulu-Natal, the Zulu monarch appointed Thulasizwe Buthelezi as the new Zulu Traditional Prime Minister, succeeding the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who held the position for nearly seventy years. Chief Phathisizwe Chiliza was appointed as deputy.
King Misuzulu asserted that the selection process for the late prince’s traditional prime minister post was not arbitrary. He engaged in consultations, seeking wise counsel.
“Prince Buthelezi worked very hard for this nation until the very last. So, I sat down with wise, smart, and knowledgeable Zulu men who are also elders, and we reached an agreement,” stated King Misuzulu.
He urged against turning the appointments into a political matter, clarifying his lack of political affiliation. “I am not politically affiliated with any party, so even this announcement is not linked to any. If you think so, you are mistaken because I will do this the Zulu way – we don’t need politics.”
The monarch pledged to take action if anyone appointed into a position of power failed the monarchy.
Thulasizwe Buthelezi’s Dedication Recognized
King Misuzulu explained that his decision to appoint Thulasizwe Buthelezi as Zulu traditional prime minister was based on Buthelezi’s dedication to the Zulu nation. Buthelezi, a bishop, senior leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and Zululand district mayor, will focus on the duties of the king and act as the monarch’s spokesperson in his absence.
The appointment of Buthelezi surprised many, as speculation had suggested that the late prince’s son, Chief Zuzifa, would assume the role. King Misuzulu praised Buthelezi’s dedication, stating, “Shenge has worked greatly with the late Prince Buthelezi. He is, in fact, still working hard.”
The monarch assured his subjects that he would closely collaborate with Buthelezi and the newly-appointed deputy