Mkhwanazi steps in to clear the air over a land dispute between two clans in KZN

A bid to restore calm in northern KwaZulu-Natal is underway – as provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi steps in to ease heightened tensions over a land dispute between two chieftaincies.

This follows recent threats and clashes involving the abaKhwanazi and Ncube clans in Dukuduku.

The conflict escalated after King Misuzulu kaZwelithini allegedly appointed businessman Qiniso Ncube as his overseer in October, placing him in charge of large tracts of land, including parts of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park.

Inkosi Ntokozo Mkhwanazi of the abaKhwanazi clan is opposing the king’s decision, arguing that the land historically belongs to his people.

Earlier this month, protesters believed to be aligned with the abaKhwanazi clan blockaded the N2 in Mtubatuba – in defiance of King Misuzulu’s appointment.

Tensions have worsened, with five izinduna reportedly killed in the Dukuduku area amid the dispute.

On Sunday, Mkhwanazi joins the Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi and the House of Traditional Leaders’ chairperson, Inkosi Sifiso Shinga, in a community imbizo aimed at restoring stability.

Despite cold and rainy weather, community members have gathered in numbers.

KZN COGTA REACTS

The KZN COGTA Department has dismissed claims that King Misuzulu has appointed Ncube as an overseer in the Dukuduku area in the province’s north.

Earlier this month, violent protests erupted, disrupting essential services, business activity and stability in the area.

Community members insist they recognise no leader other than Inkosi Mkhwanazi, after rumours spread that the king had appointed an alternative overseer.

Hundreds of abaKhwanazi clan members attended a community imbizo called to address the speculation.

Buthelezi has moved to set the record straight.

“No, there is no overseer that was appointed by his majesty the King because Inkosi Mkhwanazi is the overseer on behalf of the King, and therefore the king has never announced anyone as Inkosi over this area.”