Joseph Mthimunye is the Sakhisizwe-headman

Amandebele and Amanala Kingdom inaugurated a headman for Sakhisizwe in Evander on Saturday, November 27.

The event was held at Sakhisizwe, known as eNkomeni near Evander Gold Mine, and was attended by local chiefs, members of the community and the executive mayor of the Govan Mbeki Municipality, Mr Nhlakanipho Zuma.

Mr Jimmy Mabena who was leading the delegation that was sent by the Ndebele and Amanala king, Makhosoke Mabena II, handed over a certificate to Mr Joseph Mthimunye.

Mr Mabena said Mr Mthimunye is authorised to mediate in certain civil cases in his customary court, and also to oversee cultural and ritual practices within the capacity as provided for by custom and cultural practices.

Mr Mabena also warned Mr Mthimunye not to be selective when performing his duties as a headman.

“You must treat all people equal by not taking sides. Work with honesty. The community must step up and help you.”

“Mr Mthimunye must also safeguard our cultural practices and make sure that it is not undermined. Work with other ethnic groups in case they want to practice their cultures.

“Kingship dignity, tradition and customs must be protected and not to be dragged through the mud.”

Mr Mabena said alcohol is part of the culture and that people must stop mixing culture with alcohol.

He also encouraged Mr Mthimunye to work with the municipality to give services to the community.

Mr Mthimunye promised the kingship delegation that he will serve the community of Sakhisizwe and will adhere to the Amandebele and Amanala Kingship instructions.