KWAZULU-NATAL CHIEFS have established their own organization, the South African Traditional Leaders Organization (SATLO), with the aim of restoring the dignity of traditional leaders.
The organization was officially launched in Durban, yesterday. The Chairman of this organization, Inkosi Khetohukhle Zondi, said that they came up with this idea with the aim of creating a strong, honorable and cooperative traditional leadership to improve the lives of the people of the kingdom.
“We wish to make it clear that SATLO is not a political party. Monarchy is not a political thing but an institution of national unity. Kings do not rule because of the power of the government but because of history, culture and the trust of the people. This organization (NPO) is not involved in politics and has no relationship with any political party here in South Africa or around the world.”
The king said that kings are not agents of the government. It is the voice of the people, the custodians of culture, and the mediators of disputes among nations.
“We present this organization with the aim of working with the government and all the agencies that exist to develop the people in the tribal nations. We met as kings and realized that we must be one. The unity of the kings is the basis of peace. According to tradition, the king is the center of the history, customs, personality and unity of the nation. Even if the government does not provide enough money, the work of the king continues because it is authorized by the history of the nation”
Usihalo said that this organization will also protect the land, work with the government in relation to the land.
“We will cooperate with those who deserve land restoration under traditional leadership where appropriate, rather than being controlled by agencies that do not fully represent the people. We will ensure the implementation of Land Audit in collaboration with Geo Science and the creation of clear maps of tribes and villages. The restoration of land management in royal areas. The reopening of opportunities to apply for land restoration.”
The chairman called for the training of chiefs to be encouraged.
“The monarchy must be part of building and improving the economic situation. We suggest the promotion of the establishment of people’s banks. The establishment of shops, restaurants, firms and hotels under traditional leadership.”
He appealed to ensure that the kings and chiefs are safe as they were killed first. The structure of this organization is as follows: King Zondi, First Deputy Chairman King Mchunu, Second Deputy King Zikhali, Secretary King Mzimela, Deputy Secretary King Zulu, Treasurer King Cele, and the national organizer is King Zwane. Some additional members; King Gule, King Mpungose, King Shabalala, King Gwala, King Ngubane, King Shangase, and lawyer Nhlabathi will be on the advisory board. The members of this organization are chiefs, chiefs and young chiefs.