IN a bold move, the Zululand Municipality, led by the IFP and under the guidance of the Zulu monarch's traditional Prime Minister Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has appointed Buzetsheni Mdletshe, the recently dismissed praise singer of King Misuzulu.
This decision comes after Mdletshe's termination by the ANC-led KZN government on 18 April, sparking widespread speculation of political motives behind the dismissal.
Mdletshe (69) faced termination shortly after refusing to breach Zulu royal protocol, a charge many believe to be politically motivated.
This was because he recently called MEC for Economic development and Environmental affairs Siboniso Duma to order for breaking Zulu royal protocol.
Hiring process questioned
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The Zululand district, celebrated for its inclusive hiring practices, now faces scrutiny over its recruitment of Mdletshe as the senior arts and culture co-ordinator.
Critics are questioning fairness and transparency of the hiring process, with demands for clarity on whether standard procedures were followed.
Zululand district mayor and Zulu monarch traditional prime minister said it was amazing that Zululand has hired many people including whites, indians and coloureds, but now one has asked them as the municipality how they hired those people.
He emphasised that Zululand municipality hired Mdletshe to convey his rich history and talent to the youth who love to know about kings’ praises and also, he was able to continue with his work to support King Misuzulu.
Zululand District Municipality Corporate Service Director Sindi Linda was also asked if they followed the standard procedure to hire Mdletshe and she told Daily Sun that they released a statement, and they are not commenting on the matter.
Why was Mdletshe fired by the KZN government?
In 2020, Mdletshe reached his compulsory retirement age at the age of 65 years, and he was paid his benefits in 2021 but late king Zwelithini still wanted his service and negotiated for him to continue to be under government.
Because the government was not going to rehire him, they suggested that Mdletshe must have a contract with the government under his company called Mafavuke (PTY) LTD.
However, the KZN government's decision to terminate Mdletshe's contract without consulting the royal house has ignited further debate.
The incident undelines ongoing tensions between political entities and the Zulu monarchy, raising questions about respect for cultural protocols and traditions.
KZN office of the premier spokesman Bongi Gwala said they don’t discuss royal house matters in the public and had a contract with Mdletshe and all this was between employer and employee.
When Daily Sun tried to reach Mdletshe for comment, his phone was off.
