King displeased with ‘disrespect’ from State
KING Misuzulu kaZwelithini has expressed his extreme displeasure at the 'repeated disrespectful manner and ill-treatment' towards him by the KZN government.
This includes the termination of employment of his cultural advisor and praise singer, Buzetsheni Mdletshe by the Office of the Premier.
The praise singer initiates all sacred rituals ahead of royal ceremonies, including the cleansing ritual before a new Inkosi takes up his position, and the first fruits festival.
Mdletshe has been a trusted senior official of the Royal Household since 1977, attached to the daily activities of the king.
King Misuzulu says the provincial government operates as if he does not exist, and has instructed his Traditional Prime Minister, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi to ensure Mdletshe's services are not lost to the royal family.
The king said the provincial government's disdain for the royal family in general, and himself in particular, is an affront to the Zulu nation.
The Office of the Premier responds
Head of provincial government communications, Bongi Gwala confirmed Mdletshe was employed by the provincial government until he reached his compulsory retirement age on 31 December 2020.
“He was paid his benefits in full on 2 January 2021. At the request of the late King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, Mdletshe’s employment contract was extended by two years to continue with his work, and to train and mentor upcoming praise singers.
“This contract started on 1 January 2021 and expired on 31 December 2022. The Public Service Act allows for a two-year extension if the services of that individual are still required.
“Two praise singers, Mtshali and Mkhize, were identified and mentored by Mdletshe. Today, Mkhize is employed by the Office of the Premier to provide praise-singing services.
“At the end of the two-year extension, it was evident that Mdletshe’s services were still required. The Office of the Premier contracted him through his company Mafavuke (PTY) LTD where he has been the sole director since 15 February 2023.
“Due to financial constraints and the fact that Mkhize is already being paid by the Office of the Premier to provide praise signing services, it would have been a duplication to keep both.
“The government is implementing prudent financial management of the public purse to ensure there is no unnecessary wastage of funds.
“However, if Mdletshe’s services are required by the king and royal family, such services can be sourced through the Zulu Royal Trust, an entity of the government. The government respects and values the institution of the monarch and will continue to provide support to the king and the royal family,” said Gwala.