Ingonyama Trust Board Scandal: Allegations of Corruption and Calls for Action Unfold at Zulu King’s Imbizo

In a groundbreaking revelation at the Mashobeni royal palace in Nongoma, Ingonyama Trust Board (ITB) member Dr. Thandiwe Dlamini outlined serious allegations of corruption against top officials within the organization. During an imbizo hosted by Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, Dlamini's shocking disclosures under oath captured the attention of royal attendees and the broader South African community.

Dlamini directly accused former board chair Jerome Ngwenya of illegally selling Ingonyama Trust land valued at 30 million rand without requisite approvals, an act she classified as criminal. Further allegations pointed to CEO Adv Vela Mngwengwe and acting board CFO Siyamdumisa Vilakazi, with Dlamini suggesting that their actions betrayed the trust of the Zulu King, who is the sole trustee.

In her poignant address, Dlamini told the audience that she had attempted to challenge corrupt practices within the Trust but faced significant pushback. Despite the adversity, she exposed more wrongdoing by playing audio clips of other board members, supposedly admitting to their corrupt activities.

Highlighting the financial discrepancies, Dlamini pointed out an unauthorized salary increment of R600,000 for Vilakazi, which was not reflective of general board compensation guidelines. Responding to Dlamini’s claims, ITB spokesperson Simphiwe Mxhakaza highlighted that the board was considering her statements and would reconvene to discuss the matter further.

The imbizo also illuminated the precarious position of the ITB amidst existing tensions with the Zulu monarchy. King Misuzulu had made previous unsuccessful attempts to dissolve the board, indicating a deep rift exacerbated by current revelations.

In a dramatic conclusion to her speech, Dlamini announced her immediate resignation from the board, emphasizing her respect and gratitude towards King Misuzulu for the opportunity to serve. Her departure marks a significant turn in the ongoing saga surrounding the ITB and its leadership.

The situation also received attention from prominent regional leaders. Inkosi Sifiso Shinga, chair of the KwaZulu-Natal House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, expressed concerns over Dlamini’s safety, advocating for immediate protective measures in light of her exposé.

The implications of these allegations are wide-reaching, affecting not only the governance of the Trust but also the indigenous communities it serves. With calls for swift justice and transparency, the controversy surrounding the Ingonyama Trust Board continues to unfold, highlighting the crucial interplay between tradition, governance, and accountability in South Africa.