Garwe, Coltart Face Off Over ‘King’ Bulelani Khumalo
Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe has erupted in fury after Bulawayo mayor David Coltart rolled out the red carpet for Bulelani Lobengula Khumalo, recognised by many as the king of the Ndebele people.
In a two-page letter dated April 23, Garwe accused Coltart of legitimising a “self-proclaimed” monarch, warning that such actions are not only misleading but also “criminal.”
He declared that Zimbabwe’s constitution only recognises traditional leaders like chiefs, headmen, and village heads not kings.
“I learnt with shock and utter disgust of a meeting you held with Bulelani… allegedly at your invitation and bidding,” thundered Garwe, adding that Khumalo’s claims to the throne are illegal and unrecognised by the government.
The minister issued Coltart a seven-day ultimatum to explain the circumstances surrounding the controversial meeting, which also included town clerk Christopher Dube and took place at Bulawayo City Hall on April 21.
On the contrary, mayor Coltart appeared unapologetic.
Posting on social media, Coltart called the meeting “highly productive,” saying they discussed preserving the legacy of King Mzilikazi and boosting Bulawayo’s cultural tourism.
ALSO READ: Bulawayo’s Vintage Daimler Steals the Show at ZITF 2025
“It was my great honour to host Inkosi uBulelani Lobengula Khumalo,” Coltart said, stressing the importance of recognising historical figures and heritage.
Backing Coltart, Matabeleland pressure group Ibhetshu LikaZulu came out swinging, saying Garwe’s attack was “an affront to the Ndebele people.”
According to ZimLive, the group insists Bulelani is no impostor but a rightful cultural leader, chosen through a legitimate and traditional process.
“King Bulelani is not a self-appointed figure. He is a direct descendant of King Lobengula, the last sovereign of the Ndebele nation,” said the group in a defiant statement.
The group further criticised the government’s rigid constitutional stance, arguing that the law should evolve to accommodate cultural realities.
“Constitutions are not cast in stone. If it has to change to reflect the will of the people, so be it,” said Ibhetshu LikaZulu secretary general Mbuso Fuzwayo.
Khumalo, 41, was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, but was crowned in a secret seven-day ceremony in 2018 after endorsement by traditional leaders and the Khumalo royal family.
As the storm brews between Harare and Bulawayo, the debate has reignited deep-seated tensions over cultural recognition, identity, and historical justice in post-colonial Zimbabwe.
