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MEC, amakhosi on collision course

Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

Amakhosi have thrown down the gauntlet at MEC for local government, housing and traditional affairs Mike Mabuyakhulu by accepting his challenge that elections be held to choose the new chairman and deputy for the house of traditional leaders.

The move is in response to Mabuyakhululu's letter to IFP president Mangosuthu Buthelezi in his capacity as chairman of the house of traditional leaders in the province.

In the letter, Mabuyakhulu confirmed that the decision of the provincial executive stands and that should the chairman and deputy not accept the terms of appointment, he (Mabuyakhulu) would declare the two positions vacant and call for elections. The cabinet had resolved that the positions of chairman and deputy of the house be full-time.

Buthelezi maintains that the decision was aimed at removing him from politics. If Buthelezi wants to continue as chairman of the house he is expected to relinquish his position in the National Assembly.

As the deadline, set for June, looms, amakhosi have urged Mabuyakhulu to go ahead and declare Buthelezi's and Inkosi Mpiyezintombi Mzimela's positions vacant and call for elections.

"The MEC can call his elections. We will see who is going to vote or choose for us," the amakhosi said. They said it was about time Mabuyakhulu understood that he could not impose anything on them.

Mzimela said Mabuyakhulu should respect the amakhosi's decision.

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