The KwaZulu-Natal government is in high-level discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa regarding the national government’s decision to reduce the security details of King Misuzulu. Premier Thami Ntuli made the announcement during the State of the Province Address (Sopa) debate on Tuesday, following concerns raised by King Misuzulu’s deputy prime minister, Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza.
Chiliza warned that reducing the King’s security from 12 to only five guards has placed His Majesty’s life in grave danger, particularly amid tensions within the royal family. Ntuli confirmed that the provision of the King’s security falls under the office of the president and assured that discussions were underway to address the matter.
King’s Security: A Matter of Urgency
The King himself expressed his concerns in a letter to President Ramaphosa earlier this year, stating that the reduction of his security had been implemented without consultation and had increased his vulnerability, particularly due to the ongoing dispute over the throne with his brother, Prince Simakade. The King feared for his safety in light of these tensions and the lack of adequate protection.
Chiliza, representing the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) in the provincial parliament, emphasized that the King’s safety and that of other traditional leaders in the province should be prioritized immediately. He suggested that the King’s security should match the level afforded to heads of state, given the significant role he plays in the Zulu nation.
Efforts to Secure Traditional Leaders
Premier Ntuli further addressed the issue by highlighting the efforts made by the government to improve security for other traditional leaders. He revealed that 15 amakhosi (tribal leaders) in the province have been provided with CCTV cameras, and 16 others identified as high-risk have been given personal protection services.
While security for traditional leaders is being enhanced, Ntuli noted that the government is also restructuring the King’s office in collaboration with His Majesty to strengthen its operations.
Ithala Bank Crisis: Government’s Response
In another important development during the Sopa debate, Finance MEC Francois Rodgers assured the provincial parliament that the government is actively working to resolve the financial challenges facing Ithala Bank. The provincial government has requested a guarantee of R2.4 billion for single depositors’ funds at the bank, which is currently struggling after the South African Reserve Bank declared it insolvent.
Rodgers responded to MKP MPL Sthembiso Magubane, who criticized the provincial government’s handling of the Ithala situation. Magubane argued that simply stating Ithala would not be liquidated and relying on an ongoing investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) was not enough to safeguard the bank’s future. Rodgers, however, stood firm, highlighting that the government’s efforts to secure depositors’ money were a technical step toward ensuring Ithala’s survival.
Conclusion
As KwaZulu-Natal grapples with these critical issues – from securing the safety of its monarch to stabilizing a key provincial financial institution – the government remains committed to resolving these challenges through continued dialogue and strategic action. The province’s leadership is working closely with national authorities to ensure that both the King’s safety and the future of Ithala Bank are secured in the best interests of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
