AMID growing controversy sparked by Zulu King Misuzulu KaZwelithini’s proposal to rename KwaZulu-Natal, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has thrown its weight behind the call to drop “Natal” from the province’s name.

The proposal was raised during the 147th anniversary of the Battle of Isandlwana commemorations held in Nquthu on Thursday. In his address, the King said, “We are in the middle of a proposal calling for the removal of the word ‘Natal’ because it is problematic.”

He added, “This (province) is KwaZulu, Natal causes us problems. Just like my name, I stand for Zulu (people) not Natal. During my reign I promise you, there will be no violence but the asking for the removal.”

Backing the call, the IFP in the KZN Legislature said the proposal was “both timely and historically justified”.

“We do not find anything sinister in the King’s proposal,” said IFP national chairperson and KZN Legislature Chief Whip Blessed Gwala. “This proposal therefore comes as no surprise and is neither unreasonable nor uncalled for.”

Also Read: By-laws coming in to regulate spaza shops in KwaZulu-Natal

Gwala said the party has long advocated for the recognition of KwaZulu in acknowledgement of the Zulu Kingdom and its “profound historical, cultural, and political significance”.

“The current name remains a compromise that failed to fully reflect this reality. We further believe that His Majesty’s call opens the door to addressing other long-standing historical distortions,” he said.

In support of the campaign, which has yet to formally get off the ground, the party said the process would strengthen social cohesion, promote unity, and advance reconciliation.

“Correct place naming is therefore a vital instrument for nation-building and historical redress. Retaining this name perpetuates a false narrative and gives the impression that we accept or celebrate the injustices imposed on the Zulu Nation. We now have both the moral authority and constitutional right to correct these historical wrongs,” said Gwala.

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here