In a shocking turn of events, Local Government and Public Works minister Daniel Garwe has found himself in hot water after publicly rebuking Bulawayo mayor David Coltart for hosting King Bulelani Lobengula Khumalo at his offices. Garwe described the meeting as “unlawful and wrongful,” and referred to Khumalo as a “pseudo character.”
Garwe’s letter has sparked outrage among Ndebele cultural activists, who accuse him of being driven by emotion rather than fairness and inclusivity. Bornwell Khumalo, spokesperson for King Bulelani, fired back, saying, “We think we were targeted because the government is being overwhelmed by its own emotions and knows that what they are doing is not right.”
Meanwhile, Mbuso Fuzwayo, secretary general of IbhetshuLikaZulu, pointed out the government’s hypocrisy, saying, “When Ndebeles want to practice their culture, they are being denied, yet we have seen government-assisted activities on the coronation of King Mambo.” It seems like the government is playing favorites, and it’s not exactly clear why.
The Local Government and Public Works ministry spokesperson, Gabriel Masvora, claimed that Garwe’s letter was not ethnically charged and that the constitution doesn’t recognize kingships. But Effie Ncube, a Bulawayo-based commentator, argued that the mixed signals from authorities are creating a governance crisis. “If the issue is the constitution, then it should be applied equally to all situations and individuals,” Ncube said. Fair point.
The King Mzilikazi commemorations are going ahead as planned on September 6, and Bornwell Khumalo said, “We want to tell the Mthwakazi nation that there is no Trust or family that will stop them from celebrating King Mzilikazi.” It seems like the people are determined to celebrate their culture, with or without government approval.
Bornwell Khumalo emphasized the importance of respect and unity, saying, “We need to be respected like human beings, to practice our culture in peace. “His message to Minister Garwe is clear: “We will not be divided. We will not be silenced. We will celebrate our culture and heritage, and we expect respect and understanding from our leaders.”
source – southeneye
