Zulu Royal Chancellor Malusi Zondi vehemently denies extortion claims made against firm, asserting the legitimacy of his business dealings and the importance of his role in community safety.
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Inkosi Malusi Zondi, the Zulu Royal Chancellor, has dismissed recent allegations of extortion contained in a media report claiming that he solicited R8.5 million from Stefanutti Stocks Holdings Limited for “security protection”.
The report alleged that Zondi had been invoicing the construction firm for “site protection” services since 2024, claims that he strongly denied.
In an interview with the Daily News, Zondi defended both his business dealings and the services rendered, insisting that his work was legitimate.
“I am a proper and legitimate businessman. I am someone who has advocated for a good working relationship between government, stakeholders, and the communities at large,” he said.
Zondi’s position was supported by Martin Versfeld, speaking on behalf of Stefanutti Stocks, who rejected suggestions that the payments constituted “protection fees” or were linked to unlawful conduct.
“The payments related to legitimate project-related security and community liaison services that are commonly required on major infrastructure and construction projects, particularly in areas where there are heightened risks of disruption, theft, vandalism, trespassing, community unrest, and threats to personnel and equipment,” said Versfeld.
He pointed to the significant security risks surrounding the Lower uMkhomazi project, which has previously experienced violent disruptions, delays, and fatalities.
Versfeld said the services provided by Zondi included site access control, protection of personnel, as well as proactive risk monitoring and reporting aimed at maintaining operational continuity in a difficult environment.
Zondi also expressed concern about the negative publicity surrounding the allegations, and said that he believed certain individuals were attempting to damage his relationship with the Zulu monarchy.
“Some people want me out; they hate the fact that I am working closely with the king. They are trying everything in their power to remove me,” he said.
The controversy followed a statement issued on Friday by the Zulu Nation’s Prime Minister, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, announcing the immediate closure of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s private office, as well as the disestablishment of the Office of the Royal Chancellor.
The announcement intensified speculation surrounding Zondi’s position within the royal structure.
However, Zondi insisted that he remained the Royal Chancellor despite the Prime Minister’s communication.
“I saw the letter and I immediately contacted the King upon seeing it. He distanced himself from it, affirming me as his Royal Chancellor,” Zondi said.
In a separate official statement, Zondi said he had spoken directly with King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, who allegedly confirmed that he had no knowledge of the letter issued by Buthelezi and described it as fraudulent.
“Accordingly, Inkosi Zondi remains the Chancellor and continues to carry out his duties in his office as normal,” the statement read.
A well-placed source claimed there were tensions between Zondi and Buthelezi.
The prime minister and Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi did not reply to prior questions sent to them, at the time of publishing.
DAILY NEWS