MK Party welcomes Inkosi Chiliza’s appointment as traditional prime minister
In the video, the King's spokesperson, Mpikayise Buthelezi, confirmed that Chiliza had been appointed to the influential position.
The MK Party has welcomed King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s appointment of Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza as the new Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu Nation following the removal of Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
Chiliza is the MK Party’s caucus leader in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature.
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The leadership change was announced on Tuesday by the Office of His Majesty the King in a video posted on its official communication platforms.
In the video, the King’s spokesperson, Mpikayise Buthelezi, confirmed that Chiliza had been appointed to the influential position.
No reasons were immediately provided for Buthelezi’s removal.
The Traditional Prime Minister serves as the King’s principal adviser on traditional leadership, governance and cultural matters.
Buthelezi, an IFP member and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, was appointed to the position after King Misuzulu succeeded the late King Goodwill Zwelithini.
During his tenure, he represented the King at official functions and helped co-ordinate matters involving amakhosi and traditional councils.
Reacting to his removal, Buthelezi said the Office of His Majesty the King was expected to issue further communication outlining the reasons for the leadership change and the way forward for the royal household.
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The MK Party caucus said it respected the King’s constitutional and customary authority to make the appointment and expressed confidence that Chiliza would serve the Zulu Nation with “wisdom, humility, integrity and an unwavering commitment” to the Zulu Throne.
“At a time when unity, stability and principled leadership are of paramount importance, we trust that Inkosi Chiliza’s experience and dedication will strengthen these institutions and uphold the enduring values of the Kingdom,” the statement said.
The party also thanked Buthelezi for his service as Traditional Prime Minister, acknowledged his contribution to the Zulu Nation and wished him well in his future endeavours.
It reaffirmed its support for traditional leadership and said it remained committed to protecting the dignity, unity and integrity of the Zulu Monarchy while supporting leadership that advances the interests of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
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The party also congratulated Inkosi Nhlakanipho Maphumulo on his election by the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature as a permanent delegate to the National Council of Provinces, saying it was confident he would represent the province with distinction and integrity.
