By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
A meeting between Ndebele King Bulelani Khumalo, a descendent of the late King Lobengula, and Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has drawn the ire of the Zimbabwean government, which has branded the meeting unlawful.
The Ministry of Local Government criticized Coltart for inviting King Bulelani, referring to him as a “charlatan” and a “criminal” in a letter that has circulated on social media.
Coltart shared images of the April 21 meeting on X, calling it a productive gathering.
“It was my great honour today to host Inkosi uBulelani Lobengula Khumalo for a courtesy meeting at City Hall,” he stated, noting the discussions about recognizing the history of King Mzilikazi and his descendants in Bulawayo.
He expressed hope that such recognition would honor culture and tradition while boosting tourism in the region.
Despite being installed as king on September 28, 2018, by traditional leaders and members of the Khumalo family, the government does not recognize Bulelani as a monarch. Instead, it acknowledges Ndebele chiefs, who have benefited from state support. The legitimacy of King Bulelani’s claim to the Ndebele throne has been contested by another heir, Peter Zwide Khumalo, leading to disputes over the rightful claim.
The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works expressed its shock at Coltart’s meeting, stating, “The Ministry would like to advise you, as the Mayor of the City of Bulawayo and any other functionary of City of Bulawayo to desist from entertaining this charlatan self-styled ‘King’ Bulelani as such behaviour is not only criminal but has the negative effect of misleading the general public.”
The ministry reiterated its long-standing position dismissing King Bulelani’s claims to the throne and emphasized that meetings with him are not sanctioned by the government.