In a development that has stirred significant controversy in Zimbabwe, a letter from Minister of Local Government, Daniel Garwe, to Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has ignited a firestorm of criticism regarding the recognition of traditional leaders.
The letter explicitly admonishes Coltart for acknowledging King Bulelani, labeling such recognition as unlawful and asserting that only traditional chiefs are afforded this distinction under the law.
Critics argue that Garwe’s stance reveals a bias within the Ministry of Local Government, particularly in light of past incidents where the ministry recognized other figures in traditional leadership roles, such as the Mutapa King until he publicly criticized the president.
