Matanzima slams ‘drunk, corrupt and lazy chiefs’

DRUNKENNESS, laziness and bribery were called “demons” destroying traditional leadership in the country.

Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders (ECHTL) chairman Ngangomhlaba Matanzima said the dignity of traditional leaders was being destroyed as they worshipped the bottle and forsook their “God- given responsibilities to look after their subjects”.

Matanzima was speaking at the enrobing and installation of Ntombizodwa “Zwelinzima” Msutu – the first woman to head the Msutu Traditional Council of AmaZizi. The ceremony was at her Qhetho Great Place in Peddie on Saturday.

“Alcohol abuse among traditional leaders is the rot and demon that is destroying traditional leadership and makes us seem nothing but a bunch of drunkards, instead of being leaders of note and role models,” said Matanzima.

“This is a sad scenario and needs to be denounced.”

Matanzima said some traditional leaders were a shame to their subjects as instead of embarking on initiatives to develop their communities, they became drunkards. Other traditional leaders entered into deals unwittingly while drunk, selling their lands and compromising the entire community.

He also lashed out at traditional leaders who abused their authority by soliciting bribes from subjects in exchange for certain services.

“A traditional leader is supposed to be above board, not get involved in corrupt, fraudulent activities. We don’t want traditional leaders who groom criminals and make the communities a haven for criminals,” he said.

Matanzima also slammed those who corrupted traditional leaders for their own benefit.

“Some of you are equally to blame for the downfall of some of us traditional leaders. We want leaders who live a clean life and a community that stands against the ills of life. We must protect instead of tempting our traditional leaders,” said Matanzima.

Prince Siqithi Maqoma (speaking on behalf of AmaRharhabe Queen Noloyiso Sandile), Contralesa provincial secretary Xolile Ndevu and traditional affairs MEC Mlibo Qoboshiyane all agreed with Matanzima.

“We pray that you, Princess Nkosi Msutu, will be one who leads by example,” said Maqoma.

“A leader in whom your people will take pride and follow with zeal and enthusiasm.”

Msutu is the only one of 40 chiefs who is a permanent woman chief in the kingdom.

Maqoma said the AmaRharhabe kingdom was proud to witness this transformation in traditional leadership.

“This shows the kingdom is sensitive to constitutional demands, equity and equality irrespective of gender within a democratic dispensation,” he said.

Ndevu told Msutu that women would look to her as their representative, but that the entire community, irrespective of gender, would see her as chief.

“You must satisfy all of them without being biased towards anyone.

“Treat them equally,” he said.

Qoboshiyane applauded the royal family and the tribe for the smooth succession process.

“I hope other communities and royal families learn from this,” he said.

“There are many claims and disputes, some in court, but this royal family chose a woman in line with the Constitution and had no problems.” — lulamilef@dispatch.co.za