DA KZN spokesperson on finance and Scopa, Tim Brauteseth, writes:
The Zulu monarchy has, since its formation in 1816 under King Shaka, been a respected institution in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
It is therefore crucial that the provincial legislature enhance and protect its dignity and tradition.
It is in this context that the Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the recent announcement that a new palace is to be built for King Misuzulu KaZwelithini on KZN’s North Coast, and the facilitation of financially autonomous Traditional Councils.
The overall cost of these projects is yet to be revealed.
The DA believes that a new palace for the Zulu monarch presents a double-edged sword for KZN’s economy. On the one hand, given its location within the North Coast economic and tourism hub, it represents a unique opportunity for income generation.
On the other, the project – which is yet another unfunded mandate for KZN – is set to place additional pressure on an already strained provincial economy.
The DA is of the view that given its significant and unique role in our province, the Zulu monarchy has the potential to generate its own revenue.
This concept is in step with initiatives envisaged by King Charles III to make the British monarchy sustainable.
This could be replicated in KZN with the Ingonyama Trust converted into a business entity – bolstering agricultural and rural development, tourism and job creation – with the goal of making the Zulu monarchy sustainable.
This could be the game-changer that the DA has long called for. A new palace could become a reality without funds being extracted from KZN’s non-existent coffers.
Meanwhile, the policy of financially autonomous Traditional Councils could be realised through profits from a commercially viable Ingonyama business entity.
Unfunded mandates ultimately take money away from critical government service delivery mandates areas. KZN can ill-afford this. It is therefore critical that any wish-list items are properly planned for in terms of value for spend.
The DA will continue to monitor developments around the building of a new palace – and the funding of Traditional Councils – in order to ensure financial accountability and transparency while also offering solutions in the best interests of KZN’s people.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
