Royal Family Panel Introduced to Resolve Amakhosi Succession Disputes

The Conflict Mediation Panel includes senior members of the royal family who possess deep cultural authority and a profound understanding of traditional practices.

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has introduced a Conflict Mediation Panel appointed to address succession disputes in areas under the leadership of amakhosi. The panel, comprised of members from the royal family, has been tasked with resolving long-standing challenges related to succession within royal families across the province.

The Conflict Mediation Panel includes senior members of the royal family who possess deep cultural authority and a profound understanding of traditional practices. The panel's appointment is part of an effort to restore peace and stability in communities affected by succession disputes.

During a media briefing on Thursday, MEC Buthelezi highlighted that the initiative was inspired by the late AmaZulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who had begun involving the royal family in dispute resolution and reconciliation efforts where succession conflicts arose.

Buthelezi noted that the panel members are experienced individuals who had worked closely with King Zwelithini in addressing similar issues. "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," he said. The MEC emphasized that the introduction of this panel would strengthen the institution of traditional leadership in KwaZulu-Natal and support the work of amakhosi.

The KZN Traditional Leadership and Governance Act 5 of 2005 grants the CoGTA MEC oversight authority over matters related to traditional leadership in the province.

The Conflict Mediation Panel will be led by uMntwana uMathubesizwe kaBhekuzulu, the late King's brother, and will include other senior family members such as uMntwana uMbonisi kaBhekuzulu, uMntwana uVulindlela kaBhekuzulu, uMntwana uMxolisi kaBhekuzulu, and Princess Lindi kaBhekuzulu. Additional members include uMntwana uThuthukani kaMcwayizeni kaSolomon, the King's praise singer Inyosi uBuzetsheni Mdletshe, and Reverend Canon Hamilton Mbatha.

MEC Buthelezi assured that families of amakhosi involved in disputes would work closely with this team, with CoGTA actively engaging in the mediation process.