Royal body in land talks

RESTORATION: TRADITIONAL LEADERS FORM NEW COUNCIL TO BYPASS POLITICAL GRIDLOCK

- Masoka Dube

Traditional leaders throughout the country have united and formed a non-profit organisation known as the Monarch and Royal Leadership Council (Monroyal).

It is aimed at dealing with sensitive issues such as land restoration and other problems faced by the communities.

Monroyal chair Phumlani Mfeka said the recently launched organisation would soon start its land restoration process and would be negotiating directly with white people who own the land.

"The aim of this formation is to empower and unite amaKhosi as a formidable force for land restoration, cultural resuscitation, socioeconomic development and ensuring the prosperity and dignity of communities who reside in the realms of traditional leaders," said Mfeka.

"We shall invite the minister of land affairs and rural development to join us on this imperative quest, as these dialogues will involve legal experts, royal leaders and community representatives to ensure equitable outcomes that honour the sacred duty of reclaiming our land.

"We cannot remain silent while our ancestral land continues to be declared heritage sites and game reserves, while the bones of our ancient kings and queens rest in these very places, with legitimate royal houses having no access, rights, nor say while animals and developments continue to disturb the resting places of our majestic forefathers."

When asked if he believed in taking land without compensation, Mfeka said that it was a dangerous strategy that might lead to bloodshed.