Johannesburg: While honouring the heritage of traditional leadership in the fight against colonialism, Deputy President Paul Mashatile has underscored that traditional leadership should not be confined to preserving heritage alone, but must also play an active role in addressing pressing challenges such as service delivery failures, socio-economic development, youth empowerment, and gender equality.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mashatile was speaking at the 191st Anniversary Commemoration of Hintsa kaKhawuta, where he paid tribute to traditional leaders and warriors who died fighting for land and sovereignty during the wars of dispossession between the Xhosa Kingdom and colonial forces. The Deputy President drew parallels between the role traditional leaders played in resisting colonial domination and their role in a democratic society today, using history to reaffirm the importance of traditional leadership in advancing social cohesion, development, and nation-building.
Mashatile highlighted the critical role of traditional leaders in rural renewal, advocating for investment in agriculture, infrastructure, and education. He stressed the importance of addressing service delivery issues, such as broken roads and stalled housing projects, emphasizing that these are not just failures but violations of human dignity. He urged traditional leaders to use platforms like the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders to shape policies affecting rural communities.
The Deputy President advocated for a covenant of renewal between the government and traditional leaders, intertwining heritage and progress. He emphasized the need for transparent management of land, empowering communities with opportunities, and ensuring governance is measured by service rather than privilege. He invoked the legacy of King Hintsa, emphasizing the importance of selfless service to the community.
Commemorating the 191st anniversary of King Hintsa's assassination by British colonial forces, Mashatile honored the King as a pivotal figure in defending ancestral land and sovereignty. He noted the significance of the anniversary in aligning with Africa Month's objectives and reinforcing the shared history of resistance among Africans.
The Deputy President emphasized the importance of reclaiming Indigenous history and fostering national identity by celebrating traditional leaders and warriors who resisted colonial forces. He highlighted the role of memorials in reshaping the post-apartheid landscape, enhancing social cohesion, and fulfilling educational roles, ultimately contributing to a shared identity among diverse communities.