Former Ukhozi FM presenter Ngizwe Mchunu has launched a scathing attack on KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance MEC and Zulu traditional prime minister Thulasizwe Buthelezi, accusing him of being untrustworthy and likening him to an unfaithful spouse.
Mchunu made the remarks during an interview on the YouTube programme King Zoso TV, responding to comments Buthelezi made last week. The traditional prime minister had raised concerns about individuals allegedly mobilising Zulu regiments without the approval of King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and using them to incite violence.
Mchunu said Buthelezi should never have been appointed traditional prime minister because he has repeatedly shown he has a problem with people who are fighting for peace and the wellbeing of society. He described Buthelezi as an adulterous and unfaithful wife who cannot be trusted.
Speaking at an event where former Zulu royal chancellor Malusi Zondi was unveiled in a new role, Buthelezi said the royal family is concerned about people acting in the name of Zulu regiments without the monarch’s authorisation. He said those who have insulted and harassed people in the name of the Zulu nation are not recognised by the monarchy. He also commended Nkosikhona Ndabandaba and Jacinta Ngobese Zuma for their campaign against illegal immigration.
Mchunu accused Buthelezi of opportunism and of frequently invoking his name while failing to defend Zulu interests. He said he cannot recall a single positive thing Buthelezi has said to encourage or support his work, and said they will not allow him to dictate how to protect the country.
The latest clash is not the first between the two. Their long running feud previously spilled into the courts, with the Pietermaritzburg High Court last year ordering Mchunu to apologise to Buthelezi for social media comments. Mchunu drew criticism during violent protests in Vryheid last September, where he allegedly insulted leaders, referred to them as dogs, and claimed Buthelezi wanted to have him killed.