MEC Buthelezi backs abaKhwanazi leadership in Dukuduku land dispute

KwaZulu‑Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has publicly backed the abaKhwanazi chieftaincy in the ongoing Dukuduku land dispute with the Ncube clan. The conflict erupted after King Misuzulu kaZwelithini reportedly appointed businessman Qiniso Ncube as overseer of the contested land, a move Buthelezi and traditional leaders have rejected.

Buthelezi joined a community imbizo at KwaNdonyana Sports Field, accompanied by police, including Commissioner Lt‑Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and traditional authorities such as Inkosi Sifiso Shinga, chairperson of the House of Traditional Leaders. At the gathering, Buthelezi affirmed that Inkosi Ntokozo Mkhwanazi remains the legitimate leader of the area and dismissed any claims that Ncube was lawfully recognised by the king.

The dispute has previously escalated into violence, with reports of protests blocking the N2 highway and several izinduna reportedly killed. Authorities have urged calm, emphasising that grievances must be addressed through dialogue rather than conflict.

Buthelezi characterised the standoff as a significant challenge to both traditional governance and local administration, stressing the importance of recognising legitimate chieftaincy and preventing unlawful land claims. His intervention underscores the provincial government’s support for abaKhwanazi leadership and a commitment to restoring order in Dukuduku.