In a noteworthy move to honour his late political mentor, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi is relocating his office from Pietermaritzburg to the old provincial parliament building in Ulundi. This decision comes as a tribute to the legacy of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the former IFP leader, who passed away last year at age 95.
For years, Buthelezi has spoken about his desire to work from Ulundi, engaging with local communities and promoting economic growth for the Zululand region. The Ulundi building, historically significant for housing the province’s governance, has been largely underutilised since the ANC-led cabinet shifted operations to Pietermaritzburg two decades ago. However, it remains in use for Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders’ meetings and as office space for King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.
Sources within Cogta confirm that Buthelezi’s office setup is in progress. “Right now, they are busy setting up his office space in Ulundi,” one source revealed, adding that Buthelezi is planning to bring four or five immediate staff members to work with him from the historic site.
While the MEC’s move doesn’t signal a full departmental relocation, it has drawn a positive response from Cogta officials. The department will continue to operate from Pietermaritzburg, with only Buthelezi’s direct team relocating to Ulundi. In a video shared by provincial Cogta spokesperson Senzo Mzila, Buthelezi addressed the Amakhosi, emphasizing Ulundi’s significance as a lasting testament to Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s legacy. The MEC urged that the building should not fall into disuse, insisting it remains a functional symbol of the historical leader’s contributions.
Financial and Logistical Aspects of the Move
Regarding the financial implications, Finance MEC Francois Rodgers has noted that Buthelezi’s move must comply with PFMA and Treasury regulations. “In terms of the PFMA and Treasury Regulations, there is legislation that determines the process of budgeting and expenditure,” Rodgers explained. Thus, any funding for the relocation falls under the Department of CoGTA’s jurisdiction.
When queried about the move, Premier Thami Ntuli’s office clarified that the premier had no role in operational decisions. His spokesperson, Bongani Gina, emphasized that various governmental functions continue in Ulundi, debunking any perception that it has ceased to host provincial government offices.
Mzila, Cogta’s spokesperson, further reassured that the move required no additional state expenditure since Buthelezi is utilizing pre-existing facilities owned by the government. “The MEC, as we speak, works from Ulundi using government-owned offices,” Mzila stated, highlighting that the shift remains cost-effective for the province.
A Symbol of Economic Revitalization for Zululand
Buthelezi has expressed aspirations of reviving Ulundi’s standing as a capital city, a position it held alongside Pietermaritzburg until the ANC’s 2004 consolidation of power. Reflecting on his tenure as Zululand District Municipality’s mayor, Buthelezi envisions economic development spurred by Ulundi’s unique position and rural status.
In the early stages of his Cogta appointment, Buthelezi, alongside Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer, assessed the Ulundi building. Buthelezi conveyed his commitment to maintaining it as a protected landmark, upholding Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s legacy.
Although Public Works and Infrastructure spokesperson Steve Bhengu did not comment on his department’s involvement, it’s anticipated that any modifications or renovations will align with existing preservation goals.
The transition of Buthelezi’s office underscores an enduring commitment to the legacy of Mangosuthu Buthelezi. As the MEC officially begins operations in Ulundi, his relocation stands as a testament to the ideals and vision that the late leader championed for the people of Zululand.
