Traditional leaders vie for top post

TWO prominent senior traditional leaders are in the running for the post of chairman of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders (ECHTL), in a race which has seen tensions running high among traditional leaders.

The 38 members of the house will hold a meeting today where they will elect their new executive. Vying for the top position of ECHTL chairman are Nkosi Thanduxolo Magadla and Nkosi Mwelo Nonkonyana.

Unlike the previous three terms, whereNgangomhlaba Matanzima and Prince Zolile BurnsNcamashe were elected unanimously as chairman and deputy, these elections will be hotly contested.

There are two lineups. One supports Nonkonyana as the chairman and Nkosi Langa Mavuso as his deputy, while the other backs Magadla as chairman and Nkosi Mnoneleli Rhanuga as the deputy.

Nonkonyana is Contralesa provincial chairman. Mavuso is his deputy in the organisation and Rhanuga is provincial treasurer.

Magadla is also the founding executive member of ECHTL and has been with the organisation since its inception in 1996. Nonkonyana was the founding chairman of the ECHTL in 1996, but has served only one term.

Contralesa provincial secretary Nkosi Mkhanyiseli Dudumayo confirmed that today’s caucus will decide on the leadership of the ECHTL before the swearing-in tomorrow.

“As per the resolution of the provincial general council, it states that the Contralesa chairperson and deputy should be elected in those positions in the ECHTL. This is to avoid two centres of power, political interference and divide and rule. So we expect Nkosi Nonkonyana to emerge as the chairman of the ECHTL and Nkosi Mavuso as deputy,” said Dudumayo.

He was aware that Magadla was standing for the post.

Traditional leaders backing Magadla said that his 21 years of experience in the leadership of the ECHTL, his personal character and leadership style were the qualities of a good leader.

“Hlubi [his tribe’s name] is vastly experienced. He ... treats members equally and his leadership style has never been questioned. He is committed on issues of traditional leadership, a unifying figure and conciliator,” said one source.

A supporter of Nonkonyana said: “Bhala [his clan name] is not a pushover. In fact, he has been the founding chairman of the House.

“He has served in all the structures of Contralesa. He brings vast experience to the institution. He fights for traditional leaders’ interests.”

Some sources within traditional leaders’ circles said this election was different.

“There are more levels of competition and ambition. This has never happened previously. But, it has become very interesting with some vibrant and nasty lobbying,” said one source. —