King Misuzulu says prime minister, deputy appointments based on merit: ‘We don’t need politics’
The Zulu King appointed Thulasizwe Buthelezi as the new Zulu Traditional Prime Minister on Saturday, while Chief Phathisizwe Chiliza was appointed as deputy.
Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini at the commemoration of the historic Battle of Isandlwane in Nquthu, northern KwaZulu-Natal on 27 January 2024. Picture: Jacques Nelles/Eyewitness Newss
DURBAN - Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini insisted his appointment of the new traditional prime minister and deputy was based on an informed decision and was not influenced by political affiliation.
The Zulu monarch appointed Thulasizwe Buthelezi as the new Zulu Traditional Prime Minister on Saturday, a position the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi held for nearly seventy years, while Chief Phathisizwe Chiliza was appointed as deputy.
The appointment were made during the commemoration of the historic Battle of Isandlwane in Nquthu, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
King Misuzulu said he did not just pick and choose who should fill the late prince’s traditional prime minister post.
He said he was locked in consultation and received wise advice.
“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.”
He urged the appointment should not be turned into a political football match.
“I am not politically affiliated to 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 also vowed to act when anyone appointed into a position of power failed the monarchy.
THULASIZWE BUTHELEZI ‘WORKED GREATLY WITH THE LATE PRINCE’
King Misuzulu said his decision to appoint Buthelezi as Zulu traditional prime minister was based on his dedication to the Zulu nation.
Buthelezi is a bishop, an Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) senior leader, and the Zululand district mayor.
Buthelezi’s new role entirely focuses on the duties of the king and he can act as the monarch’s mouthpiece in his absence.
It is also one of the most senior positions in the Zulu tribe after that of the king.
The king’s announcement caught many by surprise, as speculations were rife that the late prince’s son, Chief Zuzifa, would take over.
The king told thousands witnessing Buthelezi’s appointment that he was a dedicated man.
“Shenge has worked greatly with the late Prince Buthelezi. He is, in fact, still working hard.”
The monarch informed his subjects that he would be working closely with Buthelezi and his newly-appointed deputy.