Staff Reporter
AmaZulu Traditional Prime Minister, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has been removed from his position with immediate effect.
Buthelezi, who also serves as KwaZulu-Natal’s COGTA MEC, assumed the role earlier this year.
According to reports, issued a termination letter, citing that Buthelezi’s conduct was “not in line with the expectations of the Zulu monarch.”
In a statement signed by King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and dated December 25, he called on the AmaZulu nation to support the process of appointing a successor.
“Today, I address you with a heavy heart as I announce the withdrawal of Reverend Thulasizwe Dominic Buthelezi (MPL) from this esteemed position,” said the king.
The reasons for Buthelezi’s removal will be shared with traditional leaders and the nation after the uMkhosi observance ends in January 2025.
The king stressed the role’s historical importance, describing it as a position of “unwavering service to the throne and the nation” and a symbol of unity and well-being for the Zulu kingdom.
Earlier this year, the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal reaffirmed its non-recognition of the AmaZulu Traditional Prime Minister position.
This followed a public dispute in which ANC Chairperson S’boniso Duma disrupted Buthelezi’s speech at the 110th commemoration of King Dinizulu, drawing widespread criticism.
The party’s provincial leadership later apologized to the king, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube but notably excluded Buthelezi from their apologies.
The king urged unity within the AmaZulu nation as they prepare to appoint a successor to carry forward the legacy of leadership.
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