The ANC remains the first line of defence when it comes to protecting land belonging to the indigenous people.

This was the sentiment of ANC KZN Secretary Bheki Mtolo who refuted media reports regarding the government’s seizure of land under the Ingonyama Trust through the proposed land expropriation without compensation.

“We have noted reports on various media platforms seeking to create an impression that there are plans to seize the land under the Ingonyama Trust.

“Reports cite the ANC’s Integrity Commission and an old report of the High-Level Panel headed by former president Kgalema Motlanthe,” said Mtolo.

He stated that this report was rejected by delegates who were decisive during the 54th ANC National Conference – and nothing has changed.

“We wish to inform the people of KZN, and Amakhosi in particular, that there is no plan to interfere with the land under Ingonyama Trust. Such reckless reports must be rejected and categorised as cheap propaganda aimed at creating social instability,” said Mtolo.

He cited a meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Pentecostal Holiness Church in King Cetshwayo where the president met with the late King Isilo Samabandla in Richards Bay.

“In this meeting, President Ramaphosa clarified the ANC’s position on the issue of the Ingonyama Trust. He informed the king that land expropriation does not include the 13% under Ingonyama Trust which is controlled by traditional leaders and black people in particular,” Mtolo emphasised.