Government has begun the process of recognising Kumkani Zanozuko Tyelovuyo Sigcau as the King of the AmaMpondo nation, the department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said on Tuesday.
The move comes in the wake of last month’s Constitutional Court ruling that upheld the findings of the Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims recognising Sigcau as the rightful King of AmaMpondo.
“The process for recognition of a king or a queen is outlined in Section 9(2)(a) and (b) of Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act. According to Section 9(2)(a) and (b) of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act, ‘the recognition of a person as a king or a queen in terms of subsection (1) (b) must be done by way of (a) a notice in the Gazette recognising the person identified as a king or queen, and (b) the issuing of a certificate of recognition to the identified person,” Cogta said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the department said, the Royal Family of AmaMpondo aseNyandeni Kingship will today host the umembathiso ceremony of their traditional leader, King Mangaliso Ndamase on Wednesday at the Nyandeni Great Place in Libode in the Eastern Cape.
“AmaMpondo aseNyandeni were recognised as a deemed Kingship by the President of the Republic of South Africa on 5 November 2010,” Cogta said.
In terms of Section 28 (9) of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework, the recognition of a deemed king lapses on the death of the incumbent king or as provided for in terms of Section 28(9) of the Act.
Mkhize has wished the Royal Family well ahead of today’s umembathiso ceremony.
Last week, the Minister met with both King Zanozuko and King Ndamase and urged the two royal families to work together in a manner that will ensure unity and cooperation within the AmaMpondo people. Discussions are ongoing with the two royal families.
“In terms of the culture and traditions of AmaMpondo, the two Houses respect each other and recognise each other’s positions as descendants of King Faku,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za
