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The AmaBhaca nation, known across South Africa for its values of peace, respect, and cultural pride, has voiced strong opposition to a recent decision by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
At a media briefing held at the Garden Court Marine Parade Hotel in Durban, AmaBhaca leaders addressed what they described as “a serious cultural and administrative confusion” in Nongoma. The issue concerns the appointment of a fifth chief in the Mfulamhle Administrative Area under the Silahla Traditional Authority.
“We are not going to allow Xolani to lead. It is against our law, even if the MEC wants it,” said Mntwana Mandilakhe Msingapantsi, representing the AmaBhaca royal family.
According to the AmaBhaca nation, the appointment of Xolani Zulu as a new chief is illegitimate, as they argue his lineage does not qualify him for chieftaincy. “Xolani’s father was not a king but a headman,” Msingapantsi explained, adding that this move undermines AmaBhaca traditions and leadership structures.
Speaking further, Mntwana Thamsanqa Msingapantsi reaffirmed the nation’s identity: “Thina amaBhaca saziwa ngoxolo, ingoma kanye nokusina — asingobantu bodlame,” which translates to “We as the AmaBhaca are known for peace, song, and dance — we are not a violent people.”
The AmaBhaca leaders expressed disappointment in the MEC’s handling of the matter, suggesting that the decision to install another chief was made without proper cultural consultation and violates the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework.
“I am the ruling chief under Mfulamhle Administrative Area in Umzimkhulu, and according to our culture and traditions, we cannot have two chiefs ruling at the same time,” said Chief Ndabezitha Msingapantsi, emphasizing the traditional protocols that guide AmaBhaca leadership.
The AmaBhaca nation has called on COGTA to urgently review and reverse the decision, warning that the imposed appointment could create unnecessary conflict and undermine long-standing cultural governance structures.
