By Lloyd Takawira
Fierce government critic and suspended Chief Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni is on cloud nine .
This follows resolutions by the Ndiweni clan’s council of elders declaring him as the legitimate Ntabazinduna traditional leader .
Following his suspension the Matabeleland North provincial council had sought councel from the family clan to decide.
The Matabeleland North chief’s provincial council had triggered his suspension on the grounds that Nhlanhlayamangwe was not supposed to be substantive chief in line with Nguni customs and practices.
The provincial chiefs had argued that Joram was the rightful heir to the chieftainship.
However, the Inhlambabaloyi/Inhlambane and Abaphathi council — that has the final say on who becomes a traditional leader retained Nhlanhlayamangwe as the substantive Ntabazinduna chief.
“Yes, they have been very clear on that. They have always had the final say on any chieftainship disputes and it is impossible to have a chief without the support of the Inhlambane and Abaphathi council,” Nhlanhlayamangwe said
“For them to speak out is very important and crucial as that means they have had enough with what was happening.
“Even if push comes to shove and government tries to force matters, what it means is that the chosen government representative will not be allowed to take over. The council has the final say on chieftainship issues,” said Nhlanhlayamangwe.
“Even if the President of the day says I have removed Nhlanhla that will be equivalent to bar talk with no effect whatsoever, ”he added.
