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'''Izibongo Ngonidzashe''' (28 April, 1921 - 21 September, 1979) was a politician and military official, serving as {{wp|general}}, as the [[President of Rwizikuru|Chairman of the National Salvation Council]] after a [[Rwizikuran coup d'etat, 1964|1964 coup]] that overthrew [[Pierre-Ardachir Niyonzima]], and the first [[Monarchy of Rwizikuru|Mambo of Rwizikuru]], ascending the throne in 1968, and reigning until his death in 1979. Having reigned for 15 years, 8 months, and 3 days, he was the longest reigning leader of an independent Rwizikuru until his son and successor, [[Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe]] surpassed his record on 25 May, 1995 as the longest reigning leader of Rwizikuru.
'''Izibongo Ngonidzashe''' (28 April, 1921 - 21 September, 1979) was a politician and military official, serving as {{wp|general}}, as the [[President of Rwizikuru|Chairman of the National Salvation Council]] after a [[Rwizikuran coup d'etat, 1964|1964 coup]] that overthrew [[Pierre-Ardachir Niyonzima]], and the first [[Monarchy of Rwizikuru|Mambo of Rwizikuru]], ascending the throne in 1968, and reigning until his death in 1979. Having been in power for 15 years, 8 months, and 3 days, he was the longest reigning leader of an independent Rwizikuru until his son and successor, [[Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe]] surpassed his record on 25 May, 1995 as the longest reigning leader of Rwizikuru.


==Early life==
==Early life==
Izibongo Ngonidzashe was born on 28 April, 1921, as the second child and eldest son of [[Munonzwa Ngonidzashe]] and [[Kugarakunzwana Ngonidzashe]] in the town of [[Vongai]] at the district of [[Parunoguma]], and was baptized into the {{wp|Methodism|High Estmerish Church}} as Nathaniel.
Izibongo Ngonidzashe was born on 28 April, 1921, as the second child and eldest son of [[Munonzwa Ngonidzashe]] and [[Kugarakunzwana Ngonidzashe]] in the town of [[Vongai]] at the district of [[Parunoguma]]. His father was the youngest son of [[Mutupo Ngonidzashe]], who was the main ruler of the area around present-day Vongai in the late nineteenth century, whose ancestors held control of the area since roughly the 1700s.


His family moved to [[Port Fitzhubert]] in 1923, as his father sought to give his children a good education. Thus, in 1926, Izibongo Ngonidzashe entered the [[Charles Fitzhubert School]], where he was described as an excellent student by his teachers, and he was noted for his propensity to go into the library to study for hours at a time.
His family moved to [[Port Fitzhubert]] in 1923, as his father sought to give his children a good education. Thus, in 1926, Izibongo Ngonidzashe entered the [[Charles Fitzhubert School]], where he was described as an excellent student by his teachers, and he was noted for his propensity to go into the library to study military history for hours at a time. However, the outbreak of the [[Great War (Kylaris)|Great War]] and the subsequent [[Gaullica|Gaullican]] occupation would affect Izibongo's worldview, with Izibongo taking a stronger interest in military strategies, as well as politics.


In 1932, he finished his elementary studies, and took the exams to get into the [[Shungudzemwoyo Nhema Grammar School|James Parlow Grammar School]] (present-day [[Shungudzemwoyo Nhema Grammar School]]). After passing them, he began his schooling at the James Parlow Grammar School, where they noted his "knowledge of most things," and his charisma, which they likened to his father.
In 1932, he finished his elementary studies, and took the exams to get into the [[Shungudzemwoyo Nhema Grammar School|James Parlow Grammar School]] (present-day [[Shungudzemwoyo Nhema Grammar School]]). After passing them, he began his schooling at the James Parlow Grammar School, where they noted his "knowledge of most things," and his charisma, with one teacher noting that Izibongo Ngonidzashe "could easily be to [[Bahia]] what [[Sigmund Auerswald]] was to [[Euclea]]."


After finishing {{wp|sixth form}} in 1939, he began to participate in his uncle's [[Mubatanidzwa weRusununguko rweRwizikuru|Rwizikuran National Movement]], initially as a low-level member, but eventually reached the point that by 1945, he was a leader of the local chapter in Port Fitzhubert.
==Military career==
[[File:Izibongocampaign54.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Official portrait of Izibongo Ngonidzashe, 1961]]
After finishing {{wp|sixth form}} in 1939, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would enlist in the colonial militia. Originally an enlisted soldier within the infantry, because of Izibongo Ngonidzashe's intelligence and interest in military strategies, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be sent for further training at [[Godfredson Military Academy]] in [[Estmere]], where he was the only non-[[Freemen]] in the class.


==Early political career==
After completing officer training in 1943, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would return back to Riziland as a Lieutenant, where Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be one of the first Bahian officers in the militia. By that point, the Colony of Riziland was preparing for independence, due to Estmere's financial woes in the post-[[Great War (Kylaris)|Great War]] period, leading to Izibongo Ngonidzashe being a valuable asset in Estmere's plans to maintain influence over Riziland post-independence. Thus, on the eve of independence, Izibongo Ngonidzashe has risen to the rank of Major. In 1946, with Riziland gaining independence as [[Rwizikuru]], Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be promoted to Colonel. During this period, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would also serve as a military instructor at the newly established [[Port Fitzhubert Military Academy]] in [[Port Fitzhubert]].
===Legislator===
In May 1946, the first elections were held for an independent Rwizikuru to select the new [[President of Rwizikuru|President]] to succeed the outgoing [[Estmere|Estmerish]] authorities, as well as the first elections for the [[National Assembly (Rwizikuru)|National Assembly]]. Izibongo Ngonidzashe was nominated by the [[Mubatanidzwa weRusununguko rweRwizikuru|MRR]] (formerly the [[Mubatanidzwa weRusununguko rweRwizikuru|Rwizikuran National Movement]]) to be the candidate for the constituency of Dockside.


He won the constituency with 67% of the vote, against rival candidate [[Nokutenda Pocock]] of the [[Mubatanidzwa weVakuru]], and thus, on 2 December, 1946, he was sworn into the National Assembly.
With the election of [[Vudzijena Nhema]] as [[President of Rwizikuru]], succeeding pro-Estmerish [[Zophar Bohannon]] in 1960, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's position would rise significantly, as Nhema sought to nativize the military: by 1957, at only the age of 36, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had risen to the rank of General, and in 1961 would become the Chief of Staff to the President. At around this point in time, Izibongo Ngonidzashe became increasingly critical of the Rwizikuran government, particularly over its decision to join the [[United Bahian Republic]], which he believed "needlessly endangered Rwizikuran national security."


As soon as he was sworn in, he gained a reputation of being his uncle's mouthpiece, with speaker [[Lucas Maraire]] saying in 1947 that he was "the mouthpiece of his uncle [i.e. [[Samhuri Ngonidzashe]]]," and that "it is improbable that he has any aspirations beyond what he wants to say."
By 1963, with [[Yemet]] joining the United Bahian Republic, and with [[Maucha]] coveting lands within Rwizikuru, Izibongo Ngonidzashe became concerned that the United Bahian Republic would "vastly undermine Rwizikuran independence and sovereignty." At this point in time, growing opposition in both [[Yekumavirira]] and in [[East Riziland]] against Vudzijena Nhema's economic policies, combined with Nhema's abuse of power led to the [[Royal Rwizikuran Armed Forces|Rwizikuran Army]] planning a {{wp|military coup}} against his government.


Despite this reputation, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was seen by many in his constituency as an effective legislator and one who "listens to what the people have to say." Thus, in 1950, he soundly defeated [[Mbada Gumede]] of the opposition for his seat in the legislature.
==Coup d'etats and early leadership==
[[File:Don_Francisco_Macias.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Civilian portrait of Izibongo Ngonidzashe, 1967]]
On 3 November, 1963, while [[Vudzijena Nhema]] was attending an [[Association of Emerging Socialist Economies|AESE]] conference, the [[Royal Rwizikuran Armed Forces|Rwizikuran military]] successfully [[Rwizikuran coup d'etat, 1963|overthrew the government]], with Izibongo Ngonidzashe seizing control of the [[NMR|national radio station]] to announce that Nhema was deposed for "hindering the country's development" and threatened his arrest and trial "should he ever step foot on Rwizi soil."


===Speaker===
Nhema's vice-president, [[Pierre-Ardachir Niyonzima]] was installed as President, pursuant to the [[Constitution of Rwizikuru, 1946|Rwizikuran constitution]]. However, in practice, Izibongo Ngonidzashe and the military held the real power, with Niyonzima being told by Ngonidzashe upon becoming President that "if you don't obey us, you will meet the same fate as Nhema."
When [[Lucas Maraire]] died in December 1950, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was named {{wp|speaker (politics)|mutauri}}. While Maraire had been very non-partisan, Izibongo sought to use his position as speaker to advance both his uncle's agenda, and his own personal agenda. As such, he began to use his powers for his party's benefit, and to the detriment of the opposition parties. Thus, unlike the traditional convention, he placed a very active role as speaker, voting on issues, even if there was no tie to be broken, and voting in accordance with the wishes of the supporters of Samhuri's government


These actions were seen as contrary to constitutional protocol, which led to an incident on 10 September, 1951, when opposition legislator [[Cecilia Sands]], was kicked out of the chamber by the speaker after she issued a scathing criticism of the speaker's actions in the preceding vote. This action caused almost every opposition legislator to leave the chamber in protest, leaving only a single member of the opposition, [[Rambwa Dabengwa]], remaining in the chamber.
Initially, President Niyonzima seemed willing to follow the military's directives, and reverted much of Nhema's economic policy. However, on 17 January, 1964, when he refused an order from Izibongo Ngonidzashe to "withdraw immediately from the [[United Bahian Republic]]," Niyonzima was summoned to Izibongo Ngonidzashe's residence, where he was believed to have been killed in a [[Rwizikuran coup d'etat, 1964|second coup d'etat]].


In response to this mass walkout by the opposition, Izibongo Ngonidzashe suspended the day's seating. The following day, when only Rambwa Dabengwa showed up, Izibongo Ngonidzashe tabled a motion to expel all the "dishonorable members" from the National Assembly, to hold a by-election in all of the affected constituencies, and to "permanently disqualify all those who participated in the mass walkout." This motion was passed with ninety votes in favor, all from the government, one vote against from Dabengwa, and with fifty-nine absent.
On 18 January, 1964, the military declared that Niyonzima resigned, and that "due to the security situation in Rwizikuru, a [[National Salvation Council (Rwizikuru)|National Salvation Council]] is to govern the country to bring back stability and economic growth to the Republic," shortly after Izibongo offered the Presidency to [[Zophar Bohannon]], who turned down the offer.


Thus, by-elections were scheduled on 6 November, 1951, after his uncle, [[Samhuri Ngonidzashe]] approved of the request, which only had candidates from the government running, as the opposition declared a boycott. Thus, after the end of the 1951 by-elections, there were 149 members who supported Samhuri in the National Assembly, with only Rambwa Dabengwa representing the opposition.
The National Salvation Council was made up of five figures, of which the initial five were [[Increase Barnard]], [[Promise Kabweza]], [[Chamunorwa Mnkandla]], Izibongo Ngonidzashe, and [[Nehemiah Taylor]]. However, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was appointed Chairman of the National Salvation Council, due to Izibongo Ngonidzashe's "charisma on radio" and his ability to communicate effectively with the Rwizikuran population.


With the near-complete destruction of the opposition from the National Assembly, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's agenda was free to go unchallenged, with Rambwa Dabengwa only being able to offer feeble resistance against the actions of the government. Thus, over the next few years, he was able to use his position as Speaker to refuse to give any time to Dabengwa.
As Chairman of the National Salvation Council, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had a free hand to reverse most of Vudzijena Nhema's economic and social policies, seeking to reorient Rwizikuru's economy towards [[Euclea]] and restore Bohannon's "sensible economic policies," while cracking down on {{wp|academic freedom}} and {{wp|student protests}} at the [[University of Rwizikuru]]. However, one issue that always held his attention was the situation in [[Yekumavirira]], where the [[Irfan|Irfani]] majority were critical of continued Rwizikuran rule over the area. This led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe cracking down on minority groups, with {{wp|Kinyarwanda language|Kirobyi}} being banned from public use in 1965, as well as targetting Irfan, declaring in 1966 that only three mazars would remain open: one in [[Sainte-Germaine]], one in [[Port Fitzhubert]], and one in [[Port Vaugeois]]. These policies culminated in the [[Port Vaugeois massacre]], which killed 22 people, and led to the declaration of an armed struggle by the [[Yekumavirira Liberation Movement]] who fought against the Rwizikuran government.


==Presidency==
By 1967, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had replaced almost all of the National Salvation Council with his own supporters, and he began making plans to create a monarchy. These were opposed by [[Promise Kabweza]], who feared that it would destabilize Rwizikuru too much, and would be a "violation of [Izibongo's] own promise when he overthrew Niyonzima." It culminated in an [[Port Fitzhubert putsch, 1968|attempted coup]] the following year, led by Promise Kabweza, but Izibongo Ngonidzashe's loyalists were able to quell the coup.
[[File:Izibongocampaign54.jpg|150px|thumb|right|Izibongo Ngonidzashe campaigning in [[Port Tsalar|Port Vaugeois]], 1954]]
In 1954, with [[Samhuri Ngonidzashe]] reaching the end of his second term, and the [[Constitution of Rwizikuru, 1946|constitution]] having a two-term limit, he was forced to step aside.


Thus, in June 1954, a convention was organized in [[Port Fitzhubert]] for Samhuri's supporters to select a successor to Samhuri. Izibongo declared his intention to run to be the party leader, while [[Shungudzemwoyo Nhema]]'s nephew and [[Vice-President of Rwizikuru|Vice-President]], [[Vudzijena Nhema]] also announced his intention to run for the party leadership.
By March 1968, Izibongo Ngonidzashe began making plans to create an {{wp|absolute monarchy}}, convinced that republicanism was "not feasible for societies like Rwizikuru, who need the rule of a strong king to bind the nation together."


Over the next few days, a flurry of activity emerged as factions emerged: Vudzijena was supported by many "moderate" members of the government, while Izibongo was supported by the radicals.
==Monarch==
===Coronation and wars===
[[File:GWOI1.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Garamburan forces entering [[Ntawha]] after the [[Battle of Ntawha]], 1969]]
On 1 June, 1968, Izibongo Ngonidzashe held a coronation ceremony. On the advice of TBD, it was held in the citadel at [[Munzwa|Old Munzwa]], with "every chief and prince across the land" invited to pay homage to the new King in a traditional Rwizi ceremony. Most chiefs attended, but many chiefs from [[Yekumavirira]] refused to pay homage, in protest of Izibongo's policies.


On 18 June, 1954, Samhuri Ngonidzashe formally lent his endorsement to his son, Izibongo. This caused Vudzijena's support to evaporate, and the following day, Vudzijena renounced his candidacy, effectively naming Izibongo as the Presidential candidate for the government.
Following his coronation, he declared that he would rule as an absolute monarch, but vowed to maintain "strong relations with [[Estmere]]." At first, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's reign was marked by a continuation of his pro-Estmerish economic policy, but with the outbreak of the [[Mabifian-Rwizikuran War]] on 6 October, 1968 over Yekumavirira, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was forced to pay full attention to the war. Despite initial success at beating back the Mabifian forces, with Estmerish support, the Mabifians would begin making inroads by December 1968, and following the defeat in the [[Mabifian-Rwizikuran War#Battle of Port Vaugeois|Battle of Port Vaugeois]] on 16 March, 1969, the Rwizikuran government was forced to sign the [[Treaty of Snarksburgh]] to end the war, which led to much of Rwizikuru's [[Irfan|Irfanic]] population moving towards [[Mabifia]].


With his victory in the leadership convention, he began to hold campaign events and rallies across the country. In April, the opposition finally selected a candidate, [[Isaac Mnkandla]].
At the same time as the Battle of Port Vaugeois, the Rwizikuran military faced a [[Garamburan War of Independence|war of independence]] against Rwizikuru in [[East Riziland]]. With widespread support for the cause, even by Estmere, combined with the [[Royal Rwizikuran Armed Forces|Rwizikuran military]] being "substantially demoralised" due to their defeat, by the end of April, East Riziland would gain its independence as [[Garambura]], although Izibongo Ngonidzashe sought to reincorporate Garambura into Rwizikuru.


While Izibongo's campaign was centered on veRwizi nationalism, "prosperity for all," and on "continuity," Mnkandla's campaign was centered on attacking Izibongo's record as Speaker, and calling him a "dictator" along the lines of TBD in neighboring [[Mabifia]], as well promising a "multicultural federation."
With the loss of virtually all of Yekumavirira and all of East Riziland, Izibongo Ngonidzashe felt "deeply betrayed by [[Estmere]] and by other Euclean states," which led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe taking a more anti-imperialist approach "to go after those who he felt wronged him and his country." This led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe instituting policies to reduce foreign investment from 1970 onward. By 1973, he targetted "colonial elites," seizing land and businesses who were owned by the [[Freemen people|Murungu]], [[Murungu]], and [[Mirites|Mirite]] communities, with the Mirites in particular being "expelled from the country." This resulted in economic decline, made worse by Izibongo Ngonidzashe becoming more isolationist.


Thus, over the next few months, it appeared to be likely that the opposition would gain most of their seats in the district of [[Yekumavirira]], while the government would gain most of their seats in the remainder of the country. Thus, Izibongo Ngonidzashe chose to exploit the issue of religion in the district of [[Yekumavirira]], with a rally in [[Port Tsalar|Port Vaugeois]] (present-day [[Port Tsalar]]) on 30 April where he said that "a victory for our supporters is a victory for the {{wp|Christians|Sotirians}}." That rally, which included anti-Irfanic attacks helped gain him support among the Sotirian population in Yekumavirira.
===Nativity War and later reign===
By 1974, Izibongo Ngonidzashe began making "grand pronouncements" of creating a "new [[Rwizi Empire]]." This would culminate on 25 December, 1974, when together with [[Maucha]], the [[Royal Rwizikuran Armed Forces]] invaded [[Garambura]], with Ngonidzashe seeking to retake at least some of former [[East Riziland]] back.


By the 24th of September, when elections were held, the results for the presidential campaign were officially 75% in favor of Izibongo, 24% in favor of Mnkandla, and 1% either for other candidates or spoiled votes. In the [[National Assembly (Rwizikuru)|National Assembly]], 135 seats went to supporters of Samhuri, with only fifteen seats going to supporters of Mnkandla.
However, on the Rwizikuran front, the Royal Rwizikuran Front was met with a stalemate along the [[Maghedi corridor]], as Garamburan forces were able to effectively hinder advances through it, while advancing through the [[Mabvazuva Mountains]] was impossible due to the geography of the region. Thus, after a nearly two year-long campaign, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was forced to accept a [[Community of Nations|CN]]-mediated peace which exchanged some border towns between Rwizikuru and Garambura. Despite Rwizikuru losing the Nativity War, Izibongo Ngonidzashe contuned to desire to rebuild the Rwizi Empire, and supported {{wp|Zulu people|Kulo}} separatists in [[Yemet]] with the aim of having them separate from Yemet so that he could conquer them and "surround East Riziland."


Thus, on 2 December, 1954, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was inaugurated to succeed his uncle. His uncle took his seat in the constituency of Dockside, and was elected Speaker.
In the aftermath of the war, Izibongo Ngonidzashe oversaw the construction of the {{wp|planned capital}}, [[Guta raMambo]], to replace [[Port Fitzhubert]] as the capital, as Izibongo Ngonidzashe saw Port Fitzhubert's position, both on the coast of the [[Maccan Sea]], and on the main motorway, as a threat, as in case of war, Port Fitzhubert could easily fall, while Guta raMambo's inland position and lack of quality roads would render the city safe in case of war. By 1978, the ''[[Imba yoRudzi]]'' was completed, enabling Izibongo Ngonidzashe to move the capital from Port Fitzhubert to Guta raMambo.


In his first term, Izibongo Ngonidzashe focused on implementing anti-colonial policies, while reversing course on his uncle's socialist policies: while he did keep some elements, mostly the non-partisan politics, he felt that the continued influence of socialism was in itself a "remnant of colonization" and had to be removed. In 1956, the increasing activities of the [[Yekumavirira Liberation Movement]] led him to extend his term from four years to five years, although still keeping the term limit in place.
By the late 1970s, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's authoritarian nature and isolationist policies have strained his position internationally, while domestically, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's paranoia began to alienate his erstwhile allies, who saw Izibongo Ngonidzashe as an obstacle to Rwizikuru's economic development.
 
Despite his authoritarian nature, he invested in the construction of the Mugwagwa, which connected the cities of [[Sainte-Germaine]], Port Fitzhubert, [[Port Graham]], and Port Vaugeois with each other, and sought to not alienate the "bourgeoisie," as he felt that they were still needed to help build the country. He also continued cooperating with, and developing the institutions of the [[United Bahian Republic]], with his greatest achievement being founding the [[Congress of Bahian States]] in 1956.
 
In 1959, his uncle relinquished his role as Speaker, handing the role to Izibongo's younger brother, [[Ingwe Ngonidzashe]], and resigned his position as leader of the faction, allowing Izibongo to become the official leader of the faction. In the 1959 elections, he won with 95% of the vote in a dubious election, and his party won every single seat in the National Assembly.
 
In his second term, he presided over rising tensions with the Irfanic population in Rwizikuru. As many Irfanic people in Yekumavirira were joining the Yekumaviriran Liberation Movement, he passed legislation in February 1960 which closed almost all mosques in the country, with two of them in Port Vaugeois, and the other in Port Fitzhubert. This led to substantial protests in Port Vaugeois, leading to the [[Port Vaugeois massacre]] on 4 March, 1960, killing twenty-two people and injuring sixty-three people.
 
As well, he began to reduce the amount of foreign investment coming into Rwizikuru, with Izibongo saying in 1961 that "foreign 'aid' and investment is a tool for colonial powers to continue to extract our God-given wealth." Thus, he instituted policies that restricted foreign investment, and instituted strict regulations and high taxes, so to ensure that "any development truly benefits the people of Rwizikuru, and not the elites in Ashcombe." He also purged the rest of his opponents within his ranks.
 
Thus, by the end of his second term, he was facing a declining economy, and increasing unrest in Yekumavirira, combined with increasing tensions with neighboring Mabifia. At around that time, he began plans to organize his coronation, and in November 1963 commissioned jewelers from [[Eldmark]] to produce a lavish crown.
 
==Mambo==
===Coronation===
[[File:Výstava_valtice8.JPG|150px|thumb|left|Coronation crown, 2016]]
With the [[Constitution of Rwizikuru, 1946|constitutional term limits]] coming up in 1964, Izibongo Ngonidzashe held a convention in March 1964 for his supporters. As Izibongo Ngonidzashe had not requested an amendment, it was widely believed that he would transfer power to his younger brother, [[Ingwe Ngonidzashe]], or to his son, [[Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe]], while maintaining leadership of the faction.
 
However, Izibongo stunned the crowd when on 2 March, 1964, he announced his intention to suspend the Rwizikuran constitution, citing the instability in [[Yekumavirira]] as a reason, but also citing the fact that it had been "modelled on imperialist governments that have no ties to Bahian tradition."
 
Thus, he announced his intention to establish a [[Monarchy of Rwizikuru|monarchy]], with himself as '''Mambo''', or King of Rwizikuru. Despite opposition led by [[Fred Ngonidzashe]], as well as opposition from both [[Tabora]], which left the [[United Bahian Republic]], and [[Djedet]], which threatened to halt diplomatic correspondence with Rwizikuru, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was able to secure support for his motion, and on 5 March, 1964, they agreed to Izibongo's proposals.
 
The next day, in the [[National Assembly (Rwizikuru)|National Assembly]], Ingwe Ngonidzashe tabled the motion to "suspend the constitution effective 2 December, 1964," and was unanimously approved by all the representatives. With this approval, the Speaker declared the dissolution of the national assembly {{wp|sine die}}.
 
In October, he amended the [[Constitution of Rwizikuru, 1946|constitution]] to declare Rwizikuru an {{wp|absolute monarchy}}, and replace it with the ''[[Basic Law of Rwizikuru]]''.
 
With the end of the Republic, Izibongo's priorities were immediately set to organizing a lavish coronation ceremony, which he chose to model after the coronations of previous [[Kingdom of Estmere|Estmerish monarchs]]. By that point, his crown, produced by jewelers from Eldmark had been completed, and after having it be delivered and "fit him quite nicely," he officially designated it as his coronation crown.
 
He also selected the venue to be coronated, choosing [[Saint David's Church, Port Fitzhubert|Saint David's Church]] in [[Port Fitzhubert]], as he was a devout {{wp|Methodist|High Estmerian}}, and arranging the ceremony to take place on 2 December.
 
Finally, he sent out around 3,000 invitations to foreign dignitaries. Despite his efforts at inviting heads of state and members of foreign nobility, the highest-ranking person attending the coronation was pretender to the Estmerish throne [[Clovis Richard Vernon-Dryden]], with most of the few hundred attendees being ambassadors and businessmen.
 
Thus, on 2 December, 1964, at 8:00, Izibongo Ngonidzashe and his family emerged from the [[Old Palace Museum (Port Fitzhubert)|Royal Palace]]. After climbing a ladder, they got on the {{wp|howdah}} on top of the lead elephant, with the TBD {{wp|mahout}} leading the elephant from the palace to the church. Behind the elephant were three more elephants, led by TBD mahouts.
 
An hour later, the Ngonidzashes arrived at the church, and they disembarked from the elephant, so they may go into the church. The elephants were subsequently returned to the zoo.
 
At the church, while the daughters and younger sons took their seats with the audience, Izibongo, his wife, and his eldest son, [[Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe|Kupakwashe]] made their way to their seats, with the priest, [[Isaac Mutambara]] delivering a sermon on the duties of the King. Following the sermon, Izibongo swore an oath to be a "just and upright ruler for the veRwizi people."
 
With this, Isaac Mutambara anointed the Mambo with holy oil, and crowned Izibongo as Mambo. Izibongo then named his wife ''Mambokadzi'', or Queen, and his son ''korona muchinda'', or crown prince.
 
Finally, he received homage from almost all the traditional chiefs, starting with the descendants of the Mubako who once ruled over [[Chekumabvazuva]] and [[Port Fitzhubert]], with only the Olongas, who ruled over [[Yekumavirira]] not paying him homage, as they refused to attend the ceremony.
 
With this, the ceremony was concluded, and Izibongo and his family left the church, and returned to the palace in four convertibles. Later that evening, a banquet was held with food being imported from (TBC). After the banquet and subsequent fireworks display, the festivities ended.
 
===Increasing authoritarianism===
Following his coronation as Mambo of Rwizikuru, he made it clear that he would rule as an {{wp|absolute monarch}}, which caused [[Djedet]] to follow through on its threats to halt diplomatic correspondence with [[Rwizikuru]], albeit they did not withdraw from the [[United Bahian Republic]].
 
Following the passage of the Basic Law which formally established [[Rwizikuru]] as an absolute monarchy, Izibongo Ngonidzashe shifted his attention towards cracking down on "foreign bourgeoisie," primarily [[Mirites]], and Irfanic merchants who have done well, as he viewed the existence of these {{wp|middleman minorities}} as a threat to Rwizikuru's independence.
 
At around the same time, tensions with [[Mabifia]] were rising, with Elder [[Omun Ajokhemi]] demanding in 1966 that the {{wp|Christians|Sotirian}} population be moved out of [[Yekumavirira]]. This led Izibongo Ngonidzashe to close the two mosques in [[Port Tsalar|Port Vaugeois]], and instituting mandatory religious education, where schoolchildren were to be educated Sotirian values.
 
These factors led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe to announce on 1 May, 1966 to:
 
<blockquote>"''...expel the people who for generations have reaped the profits of oppression, of colonialism, and of our resources; to seize their property and businesses and give them to {{wp|Shona people|veRwizi}}, and to establish a non-colonial society! Only then will Rwizikuru know true independence!''"</blockquote>
 
Thus, all Mirites in Rwizikuru were ordered to leave the country, with almost all of them leaving for [[Satucin]]. In addition, around 20,000 wealthy Irfanics were deported to Mabifia. Their properties and businesses were seized, and were redistributed to the veRwizi nation. However, the expulsion of the Mirites and Irfanic merchants from the country severely damaged the economy, as many of the people who took control of the businesses had little experience operating them.
 
Besides the negative economic impact, tensions with Mabifia continued growing, with (TBC). Finally, by early 1968, after refusing an ultimatum to cede Yekumavirira to Mabifia, he began to detain Irfanic peoples in Rwizikuru and sending them to {{wp|internment camps}} in the eastern regions of the country.
 
This led to the start of the [[Mabifian-Rwizikuran War]] on 6 October, 1968: while initially, the Rwizikurans had the upper hand, with Mabifians reorganization, combined with air support from [[Zorasan]], the Mabifians were able to take Port Vaugeois by March 1969, and all but destroyed the [[Royal Rwizikuran Army]] as an effective force. Thus, he was forced to sue for peace, leading to the [[Treaty of Snarksburgh]] in the [[Caldia|Caldian]] city of [[Snarksburgh]], which saw most of Yekumavirira change hands to Mabifia, and a {{wp|population exchange}} where Sotirians from Yekumavirira would be resettled in Rwizikuru, and Irfanics would be resettled in Mabifia.
 
At around the same time, [[East Riziland]] rebelled against Rwizikuru in the [[Garamburan War of Independence]]: while Rwizikuru saw some early successes at the [[Battle of Tsvangirayi]], Rwizikuru was soundly defeated at the [[Battle of Ntawha]] in April, and was forced to sign the [[Treaty of Bazadavo]], which granted East Riziland independence as [[Garambura]].
 
===Later years===
With virtually all of the [[Irfanic|Irfanic]] population in the country expelled at the end of the [[Mabifian-Rwizikuran War]] (in 1971, only 3,105 Irfanics were registered in the census), Izibongo Ngonidzashe said that it was a "moral victory for the {{wp|Shona people|veRwizi}} nation," despite the fact many of the Irfanic expelled from Rwizikuru were of {{wp|Shona people|veRwizi}} origin.
 
His immediate priorities were a purge of the "incompetent soldiers and officers" who have "dishonored our country." They were all tried in a {{wp|show trial}}, and were executed by December 1969. As well, he believed that the [[Treaty of Snarksburgh]] was a sign that "foreign powers were only interested in undermining our independence as a free nation."
 
Therefore, in 1970, he tightened Rwizikuru's isolationism, saying on its independence day celebrations that year that "so long as the imperialist attitudes of the old [[Euclea|Euclean]] order remain, we must have as little to do with them as possible." To this effect, he increased restrictions on investment to a point where it was virtually impossible for a foreign enterprise to start a business in the country, and even imposed restrictions on tourists, only allowing guided tours.
 
As well, as he feared that [[Port Fitzhubert]] would be vulnerable to invasion by sea, and by land (via the Mugwagwa), he ordered the construction of a new capital city in what is now [[Guta raMambo]] in 1973, to serve as a "chief village in a nation of villages." Thus, over the next few years, the capital was moved, with the new palace in Guta raMambo, [[Imba yoRudzi]], being completed in 1978, and the district where it resides, [[Gutaguru]] established that same year.
 
In 1974, together with [[Adesine]], Rwizikuru invaded [[Garambura]] in the [[Nativity War]], with Rwizikuru's aim being to retake control over East Riziland: over the next two years, the Rwizikuran front reached a stalemate, due to the geography of the border between Garambura and Rwizikuru funneling all Rwizikuran forces to the coast. In 1976, the [[Community of Nations]] mandated peace between Rwizikuru and Garambura, with some border towns being exchanged.


==Death==
==Death==
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With the rest of the royal family informed, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe informed the [[NMR]] to immediately broadcast the news of Izibongo's death: thus, at 5:50 pm, the news was broadcast over radio from the flag station at [[Port Fitzhubert]]. The broadcast was repeated, as all other stations cut to the flag station's coverage.
With the rest of the royal family informed, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe informed the [[NMR]] to immediately broadcast the news of Izibongo's death: thus, at 5:50 pm, the news was broadcast over radio from the flag station at [[Port Fitzhubert]]. The broadcast was repeated, as all other stations cut to the flag station's coverage.


The following day, [[Kwasiza]] published a front-page obituary to the deceased [[Monarchy of Rwizikuru|Mambo]], and hailed Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe as the new Mambo of Rwizikuru.
The following day, [[The Rwizikruan]] published a front-page obituary to the deceased [[Monarchy of Rwizikuru|King]], and hailed Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe as the new Mambo of Rwizikuru.


His body was transported by plane to Port Fitzhubert, as the church in Guta raMambo was not completed, where he {{wp|lying in state|laid in state}} at the old palace in Port Fitzhubert. On 1st October, a funeral service was held at [[Saint David's Church, Port Fitzhubert|Saint David's Church]] in {{wp|Methodism|High Estmerish}} rites. His body was subsequently flown back to Guta raMambo, where he was interred at the royal cemetery.
His body was transported by plane to Port Fitzhubert, as the church in Guta raMambo was not completed, where he {{wp|lying in state|laid in state}} at the old palace in Port Fitzhubert. On 1st October, a funeral service was held at [[Saint David's Church, Port Fitzhubert|Saint David's Church]] in {{wp|Methodism|High Estmerish}} rites. His body was subsequently flown back to Guta raMambo, where he was interred at the royal cemetery.


The driver was tried in December 1979, and was sentenced to fifteen years in prison for {{wp|vehicular manslaughter}}. However, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe pardoned the driver in May 1980.
The driver (a [[Murungu]] farmer) was tried in December 1979, and was sentenced to fifteen years in prison for {{wp|vehicular manslaughter}}. However, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe pardoned the driver in May 1980.


There have been allegations by some senior royals in the past that the driver was an Estmerish spy, but it has been denied by both Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe, and the Estmerish.
There have been allegations by some senior royals in the past that the driver was an Estmerish spy, both due to the farmer's background, and to Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe's decision to pardon the driver in May 1980, but the rumors have been denied by both Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe, and the Estmerish government.


==Legacy==
==Legacy==
[[File:Francisco_Macías_Nguema.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A profile of him on a [[Rwizikuran shilling]] banknote, c. 1980]]
[[File:Francisco_Macías_Nguema.jpg|150px|thumb|right|A profile of him on a [[Rwizikuran shilling]] banknote, c. 1980]]


Izibongo Ngonidzashe's legacy has generally been negative, especially among foreigners. Supporters, such as [[Rupenyu Chikerema]], professor at the [[University of Rwizikuru]], and sociologist [[Watinoda Kumbula]] have praised Izibongo's achievements in developing a "non-colonial society," with his appeal to {{wp|Shona people|veRwizi}} traditions, culture, and nationalism, as well as his commitment to not accepting any form of foreign aid.
Izibongo Ngonidzashe's legacy has generally been negative, especially among foreigners. Supporters, such as [[Rupenyu Chikerema]], professor at the [[University of Rwizikuru]], and sociologist [[Watinoda Kumbula]] have praised Izibongo's achievements in developing a "non-colonial society," with his appeal to {{wp|Shona people|Rwizi}} traditions, culture, and nationalism, as well as his commitment to not accepting any form of foreign aid.
 
However, opponents, such as [[Muchazvireva Ngonidzashe]], leader of the [[Rwizikuru government-in-exile]] in [[Caldia]], and professor (TBD) of (TBD university) have criticized his authoritarian nature, his willingness to oppress minorities, both ethnic (in the case of the [[Mirites]]) and religious (in the case of the [[Irfan|Irfanic]] population), and the fact that he had stymied development out of fear that foreign countries would exploit Rwizikuru's wealth. Many opponents in [[Bahia]] also noted that his declaration of an absolute monarchy played a key role in destroying the [[United Bahian Republic]], as it precipitated [[Tabora]]'s withdrawal, and led to the deadlock which tore the organisation apart following the [[Garamburan War of Independence]].


While it is impossible to determine accurate statistics on his approval rating, due to Rwizikuru's {{wp|lèse-majesté}} laws, many in Rwizikuru have appreciated him for his efforts at creating a non-colonial society.
However, opponents, such as [[Muchazvireva Ngonidzashe]], leader of the [[Rwizikuru government-in-exile]] in [[Caldia]], and professor (TBD) of (TBD university) have criticized his authoritarian nature, his willingness to oppress minorities, both ethnic (in the case of the [[Mirites]]) and religious (in the case of the [[Irfan|Irfanic]] population), and the fact that he had stymied development out of fear that foreign countries would exploit Rwizikuru's wealth. Many opponents in [[Bahia]] also noted that his rule "crippled the [[United Bahian Republic]]" after withdrawing Rwizikuru from the organisation, leading to the United Bahian Republic's collapse when [[Yemet]] and [[Maucha]] fought the [[Ibabochian War]].


In addition, many places in Rwizikuru are named after him, such as the [[King Izibongo School]] in [[Guta raMambo]], and the [[Izibongo Memorial Hospital]] in [[Crogan]], where he died, and was renamed posthumously.
While it is impossible to determine accurate statistics on his approval rating, due to Rwizikuru's {{wp|lèse-majesté}} laws, many in Rwizikuru have appreciated him for his efforts at creating a "traditional Bahian monarchy." In addition, many places in Rwizikuru are named after him, such as the [[King Izibongo School]] in [[Guta raMambo]], and the [[Izibongo Memorial Hospital]] in [[Crogan]], where he died, and was renamed posthumously.


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
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In addition, he had five daughters with Anatswanshe Ngonidzashe: Farisai Chimutengwende, born in 1941 and died in 2005, Chiratidzo Towungana, who was born in 1944 as a twin sibling of Simbarashe, Tinotendaisheanesu Mnkandla, who was born in 1952, Nyemwererai Mtawarira, who was born in 1956, and died in 2011, and the youngest daughter, Isheanopa Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1958.
In addition, he had five daughters with Anatswanshe Ngonidzashe: Farisai Chimutengwende, born in 1941 and died in 2005, Chiratidzo Towungana, who was born in 1944 as a twin sibling of Simbarashe, Tinotendaisheanesu Mnkandla, who was born in 1952, Nyemwererai Mtawarira, who was born in 1956, and died in 2011, and the youngest daughter, Isheanopa Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1958.


However, from the late 1960s onward, he exercised the {{wp|droit du seigneur|droit de cuissage}}. By the time of his death in 1979, he had at least three illegitimate children of various women between 1966 and 1979, with some sources claiming that he had as many as 110 illegitimate children in that time span.
However, from the early 1970s onward, he exercised the {{wp|droit du seigneur|droit de cuissage}}. By the time of his death in 1979, he had at least three illegitimate children of various women between 1971 and 1979, with some sources claiming that he had as many as 70 illegitimate children in that time span.


He was a member of the {{wp|Methodism|High Estmerish Church}}, and was known to be extraordinarily devout, with a priest in [[Port Fitzhubert]] saying that Izibongo was "an extraordinary member of the church: he made sure to attend every service, and sought to expound these principles in everyone."
He was a member of the [[Embrian Communion]], and was known to be extraordinarily devout, with a priest in [[Port Fitzhubert]] saying that Izibongo was "an extraordinary member of the church: he made sure to attend every service, and sought to expound these principles in everyone."


He was fluent in {{wp|Shona language|weRwizi}}, {{wp|English language|Estmerish}}, and {{wp|French language|Gaullican}}, and could carry a basic conversation in the [[Wopoto language]].
He was fluent in {{wp|Shona language|Rwizi}}, {{wp|English language|Estmerish}}, and {{wp|French language|Gaullican}}, and could carry a basic conversation in the {{wp|Kinyarwanda language|Kirobyi language}}.


==Titles and honors==
==Titles and honors==
Line 196: Line 126:
*'''2 December, 1954 - 2 December, 1964''' - ''His Excellency'' Izibongo Ngonidzashe, ''President of the Republic of Rwizikuru''
*'''2 December, 1954 - 2 December, 1964''' - ''His Excellency'' Izibongo Ngonidzashe, ''President of the Republic of Rwizikuru''
*'''2 December, 1964 - 21 September, 1979''' - ''His Most Faithful Majesty'' Izibongo Ngonidzashe
*'''2 December, 1964 - 21 September, 1979''' - ''His Most Faithful Majesty'' Izibongo Ngonidzashe
*'''Full regnal title''' - ''His Most Faithful Majesty'' Ngonidzashe II, ''by the {{wp|Grace of God}}, and by the will of the Rwizikuran people through the [[Mberi kweRudzi|MR]]'s heroic efforts against [[Estmere|the colonizer]], Mambo and {{wp|Nganga#Shona N'anga/Zulu Nyanga|N'anga}} of the Rwizikuran nation and of the veRwizi people''
*'''Full regnal title''' - ''His Most Faithful Majesty'' Ngonidzashe II, ''by the {{wp|Grace of God}}, and by the will of the Rwizikuran people through the [[Mberi kweRudzi|MR]]'s heroic efforts against [[Estmere|the colonizer]], Mambo and {{wp|Nganga#Shona N'anga/Zulu Nyanga|N'anga}} of the Rwizikuran nation and of the Rwizi people''


===Domestic honors===
===Domestic honors===

Revision as of 20:29, 5 November 2021

Izibongo Ngonidzashe
File:IzibongoNgonidzashe75.jpg
Mambo of Rwizikuru
Reign1 June, 1968 - 21 September, 1979
Predecessorhimself as President
SuccessorKupakwashe Ngonidzashe
Chairman of the National Salvation Council
Reign18 January, 1964 - 1 June, 1968
PredecessorPierre-Ardachir Niyonzima (as President)
Successorhimself as Mambo
Vice-PresidentFred Ngonidzashe
Born(1921-04-28)28 April 1921
Vongai, Riziland (present-day Rwizikuru)
Died21 September 1979(1979-09-21) (aged 58)
Crogan, Rwizikuru
SpouseAnatswanashe Ngonidzashe
Issue10+ children, including Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe
Full name
Nathaniel Izibongo Ngonidzashe
HouseHouse of Ngonidzashe
FatherMunonzwa Ngonidzashe
MotherKugarakunzwana Ngonidzashe
ReligionHigh Estmerish Church
OccupationGeneral, politician

Izibongo Ngonidzashe (28 April, 1921 - 21 September, 1979) was a politician and military official, serving as general, as the Chairman of the National Salvation Council after a 1964 coup that overthrew Pierre-Ardachir Niyonzima, and the first Mambo of Rwizikuru, ascending the throne in 1968, and reigning until his death in 1979. Having been in power for 15 years, 8 months, and 3 days, he was the longest reigning leader of an independent Rwizikuru until his son and successor, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe surpassed his record on 25 May, 1995 as the longest reigning leader of Rwizikuru.

Early life

Izibongo Ngonidzashe was born on 28 April, 1921, as the second child and eldest son of Munonzwa Ngonidzashe and Kugarakunzwana Ngonidzashe in the town of Vongai at the district of Parunoguma. His father was the youngest son of Mutupo Ngonidzashe, who was the main ruler of the area around present-day Vongai in the late nineteenth century, whose ancestors held control of the area since roughly the 1700s.

His family moved to Port Fitzhubert in 1923, as his father sought to give his children a good education. Thus, in 1926, Izibongo Ngonidzashe entered the Charles Fitzhubert School, where he was described as an excellent student by his teachers, and he was noted for his propensity to go into the library to study military history for hours at a time. However, the outbreak of the Great War and the subsequent Gaullican occupation would affect Izibongo's worldview, with Izibongo taking a stronger interest in military strategies, as well as politics.

In 1932, he finished his elementary studies, and took the exams to get into the James Parlow Grammar School (present-day Shungudzemwoyo Nhema Grammar School). After passing them, he began his schooling at the James Parlow Grammar School, where they noted his "knowledge of most things," and his charisma, with one teacher noting that Izibongo Ngonidzashe "could easily be to Bahia what Sigmund Auerswald was to Euclea."

Military career

File:Izibongocampaign54.jpg
Official portrait of Izibongo Ngonidzashe, 1961

After finishing sixth form in 1939, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would enlist in the colonial militia. Originally an enlisted soldier within the infantry, because of Izibongo Ngonidzashe's intelligence and interest in military strategies, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be sent for further training at Godfredson Military Academy in Estmere, where he was the only non-Freemen in the class.

After completing officer training in 1943, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would return back to Riziland as a Lieutenant, where Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be one of the first Bahian officers in the militia. By that point, the Colony of Riziland was preparing for independence, due to Estmere's financial woes in the post-Great War period, leading to Izibongo Ngonidzashe being a valuable asset in Estmere's plans to maintain influence over Riziland post-independence. Thus, on the eve of independence, Izibongo Ngonidzashe has risen to the rank of Major. In 1946, with Riziland gaining independence as Rwizikuru, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would be promoted to Colonel. During this period, Izibongo Ngonidzashe would also serve as a military instructor at the newly established Port Fitzhubert Military Academy in Port Fitzhubert.

With the election of Vudzijena Nhema as President of Rwizikuru, succeeding pro-Estmerish Zophar Bohannon in 1960, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's position would rise significantly, as Nhema sought to nativize the military: by 1957, at only the age of 36, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had risen to the rank of General, and in 1961 would become the Chief of Staff to the President. At around this point in time, Izibongo Ngonidzashe became increasingly critical of the Rwizikuran government, particularly over its decision to join the United Bahian Republic, which he believed "needlessly endangered Rwizikuran national security."

By 1963, with Yemet joining the United Bahian Republic, and with Maucha coveting lands within Rwizikuru, Izibongo Ngonidzashe became concerned that the United Bahian Republic would "vastly undermine Rwizikuran independence and sovereignty." At this point in time, growing opposition in both Yekumavirira and in East Riziland against Vudzijena Nhema's economic policies, combined with Nhema's abuse of power led to the Rwizikuran Army planning a military coup against his government.

Coup d'etats and early leadership

Civilian portrait of Izibongo Ngonidzashe, 1967

On 3 November, 1963, while Vudzijena Nhema was attending an AESE conference, the Rwizikuran military successfully overthrew the government, with Izibongo Ngonidzashe seizing control of the national radio station to announce that Nhema was deposed for "hindering the country's development" and threatened his arrest and trial "should he ever step foot on Rwizi soil."

Nhema's vice-president, Pierre-Ardachir Niyonzima was installed as President, pursuant to the Rwizikuran constitution. However, in practice, Izibongo Ngonidzashe and the military held the real power, with Niyonzima being told by Ngonidzashe upon becoming President that "if you don't obey us, you will meet the same fate as Nhema."

Initially, President Niyonzima seemed willing to follow the military's directives, and reverted much of Nhema's economic policy. However, on 17 January, 1964, when he refused an order from Izibongo Ngonidzashe to "withdraw immediately from the United Bahian Republic," Niyonzima was summoned to Izibongo Ngonidzashe's residence, where he was believed to have been killed in a second coup d'etat.

On 18 January, 1964, the military declared that Niyonzima resigned, and that "due to the security situation in Rwizikuru, a National Salvation Council is to govern the country to bring back stability and economic growth to the Republic," shortly after Izibongo offered the Presidency to Zophar Bohannon, who turned down the offer.

The National Salvation Council was made up of five figures, of which the initial five were Increase Barnard, Promise Kabweza, Chamunorwa Mnkandla, Izibongo Ngonidzashe, and Nehemiah Taylor. However, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was appointed Chairman of the National Salvation Council, due to Izibongo Ngonidzashe's "charisma on radio" and his ability to communicate effectively with the Rwizikuran population.

As Chairman of the National Salvation Council, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had a free hand to reverse most of Vudzijena Nhema's economic and social policies, seeking to reorient Rwizikuru's economy towards Euclea and restore Bohannon's "sensible economic policies," while cracking down on academic freedom and student protests at the University of Rwizikuru. However, one issue that always held his attention was the situation in Yekumavirira, where the Irfani majority were critical of continued Rwizikuran rule over the area. This led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe cracking down on minority groups, with Kirobyi being banned from public use in 1965, as well as targetting Irfan, declaring in 1966 that only three mazars would remain open: one in Sainte-Germaine, one in Port Fitzhubert, and one in Port Vaugeois. These policies culminated in the Port Vaugeois massacre, which killed 22 people, and led to the declaration of an armed struggle by the Yekumavirira Liberation Movement who fought against the Rwizikuran government.

By 1967, Izibongo Ngonidzashe had replaced almost all of the National Salvation Council with his own supporters, and he began making plans to create a monarchy. These were opposed by Promise Kabweza, who feared that it would destabilize Rwizikuru too much, and would be a "violation of [Izibongo's] own promise when he overthrew Niyonzima." It culminated in an attempted coup the following year, led by Promise Kabweza, but Izibongo Ngonidzashe's loyalists were able to quell the coup.

By March 1968, Izibongo Ngonidzashe began making plans to create an absolute monarchy, convinced that republicanism was "not feasible for societies like Rwizikuru, who need the rule of a strong king to bind the nation together."

Monarch

Coronation and wars

Garamburan forces entering Ntawha after the Battle of Ntawha, 1969

On 1 June, 1968, Izibongo Ngonidzashe held a coronation ceremony. On the advice of TBD, it was held in the citadel at Old Munzwa, with "every chief and prince across the land" invited to pay homage to the new King in a traditional Rwizi ceremony. Most chiefs attended, but many chiefs from Yekumavirira refused to pay homage, in protest of Izibongo's policies.

Following his coronation, he declared that he would rule as an absolute monarch, but vowed to maintain "strong relations with Estmere." At first, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's reign was marked by a continuation of his pro-Estmerish economic policy, but with the outbreak of the Mabifian-Rwizikuran War on 6 October, 1968 over Yekumavirira, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was forced to pay full attention to the war. Despite initial success at beating back the Mabifian forces, with Estmerish support, the Mabifians would begin making inroads by December 1968, and following the defeat in the Battle of Port Vaugeois on 16 March, 1969, the Rwizikuran government was forced to sign the Treaty of Snarksburgh to end the war, which led to much of Rwizikuru's Irfanic population moving towards Mabifia.

At the same time as the Battle of Port Vaugeois, the Rwizikuran military faced a war of independence against Rwizikuru in East Riziland. With widespread support for the cause, even by Estmere, combined with the Rwizikuran military being "substantially demoralised" due to their defeat, by the end of April, East Riziland would gain its independence as Garambura, although Izibongo Ngonidzashe sought to reincorporate Garambura into Rwizikuru.

With the loss of virtually all of Yekumavirira and all of East Riziland, Izibongo Ngonidzashe felt "deeply betrayed by Estmere and by other Euclean states," which led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe taking a more anti-imperialist approach "to go after those who he felt wronged him and his country." This led to Izibongo Ngonidzashe instituting policies to reduce foreign investment from 1970 onward. By 1973, he targetted "colonial elites," seizing land and businesses who were owned by the Murungu, Murungu, and Mirite communities, with the Mirites in particular being "expelled from the country." This resulted in economic decline, made worse by Izibongo Ngonidzashe becoming more isolationist.

Nativity War and later reign

By 1974, Izibongo Ngonidzashe began making "grand pronouncements" of creating a "new Rwizi Empire." This would culminate on 25 December, 1974, when together with Maucha, the Royal Rwizikuran Armed Forces invaded Garambura, with Ngonidzashe seeking to retake at least some of former East Riziland back.

However, on the Rwizikuran front, the Royal Rwizikuran Front was met with a stalemate along the Maghedi corridor, as Garamburan forces were able to effectively hinder advances through it, while advancing through the Mabvazuva Mountains was impossible due to the geography of the region. Thus, after a nearly two year-long campaign, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was forced to accept a CN-mediated peace which exchanged some border towns between Rwizikuru and Garambura. Despite Rwizikuru losing the Nativity War, Izibongo Ngonidzashe contuned to desire to rebuild the Rwizi Empire, and supported Kulo separatists in Yemet with the aim of having them separate from Yemet so that he could conquer them and "surround East Riziland."

In the aftermath of the war, Izibongo Ngonidzashe oversaw the construction of the planned capital, Guta raMambo, to replace Port Fitzhubert as the capital, as Izibongo Ngonidzashe saw Port Fitzhubert's position, both on the coast of the Maccan Sea, and on the main motorway, as a threat, as in case of war, Port Fitzhubert could easily fall, while Guta raMambo's inland position and lack of quality roads would render the city safe in case of war. By 1978, the Imba yoRudzi was completed, enabling Izibongo Ngonidzashe to move the capital from Port Fitzhubert to Guta raMambo.

By the late 1970s, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's authoritarian nature and isolationist policies have strained his position internationally, while domestically, Izibongo Ngonidzashe's paranoia began to alienate his erstwhile allies, who saw Izibongo Ngonidzashe as an obstacle to Rwizikuru's economic development.

Death

On the 21st of September, 1979, after visiting the Saunders farm outside of Crogan in the district of Dzakakwirira, Izibongo Ngonidzashe was heading back to Crogan in a royal motorcade, to attend a banquet held in his honor by the white community in Crogan, when the car he was in experienced a broadside collision as they were entering the outskirts of town. The driver was immediately arrested by his bodyguards, while Izibongo was rushed in another car to the local hospital.

By the time Izibongo Ngonidzashe arrived, he was in a critical condition. Despite the doctors' best efforts at treating him, he was declared dead at 4:58 pm. The news was immediately communicated to the crown prince, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe, who was in Guta raMambo at the time.

With the rest of the royal family informed, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe informed the NMR to immediately broadcast the news of Izibongo's death: thus, at 5:50 pm, the news was broadcast over radio from the flag station at Port Fitzhubert. The broadcast was repeated, as all other stations cut to the flag station's coverage.

The following day, The Rwizikruan published a front-page obituary to the deceased King, and hailed Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe as the new Mambo of Rwizikuru.

His body was transported by plane to Port Fitzhubert, as the church in Guta raMambo was not completed, where he laid in state at the old palace in Port Fitzhubert. On 1st October, a funeral service was held at Saint David's Church in High Estmerish rites. His body was subsequently flown back to Guta raMambo, where he was interred at the royal cemetery.

The driver (a Murungu farmer) was tried in December 1979, and was sentenced to fifteen years in prison for vehicular manslaughter. However, Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe pardoned the driver in May 1980.

There have been allegations by some senior royals in the past that the driver was an Estmerish spy, both due to the farmer's background, and to Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe's decision to pardon the driver in May 1980, but the rumors have been denied by both Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe, and the Estmerish government.

Legacy

A profile of him on a Rwizikuran shilling banknote, c. 1980

Izibongo Ngonidzashe's legacy has generally been negative, especially among foreigners. Supporters, such as Rupenyu Chikerema, professor at the University of Rwizikuru, and sociologist Watinoda Kumbula have praised Izibongo's achievements in developing a "non-colonial society," with his appeal to Rwizi traditions, culture, and nationalism, as well as his commitment to not accepting any form of foreign aid.

However, opponents, such as Muchazvireva Ngonidzashe, leader of the Rwizikuru government-in-exile in Caldia, and professor (TBD) of (TBD university) have criticized his authoritarian nature, his willingness to oppress minorities, both ethnic (in the case of the Mirites) and religious (in the case of the Irfanic population), and the fact that he had stymied development out of fear that foreign countries would exploit Rwizikuru's wealth. Many opponents in Bahia also noted that his rule "crippled the United Bahian Republic" after withdrawing Rwizikuru from the organisation, leading to the United Bahian Republic's collapse when Yemet and Maucha fought the Ibabochian War.

While it is impossible to determine accurate statistics on his approval rating, due to Rwizikuru's lèse-majesté laws, many in Rwizikuru have appreciated him for his efforts at creating a "traditional Bahian monarchy." In addition, many places in Rwizikuru are named after him, such as the King Izibongo School in Guta raMambo, and the Izibongo Memorial Hospital in Crogan, where he died, and was renamed posthumously.

Personal life

In 1939, Izibongo Ngonidzashe met his future wife, 18 year old Anatswanashe Nhema, daughter of Shungudzemwoyo Nhema, when his uncle introduced him to her father, fellow nationalist Shungudzemwoyo Nhema. After having fallen in love, they got married in 1940.

He was the father of five sons with Anatswanshe Ngonidzashe: Kupakwashe Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1942, Simbarashe Ngonidzashe who was born in 1944, and died in 1996, Tashongedzwa Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1947, Shungudzemwoyo Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1950 and died in 1959 of malaria, and Taropafadzwa Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1954.

In addition, he had five daughters with Anatswanshe Ngonidzashe: Farisai Chimutengwende, born in 1941 and died in 2005, Chiratidzo Towungana, who was born in 1944 as a twin sibling of Simbarashe, Tinotendaisheanesu Mnkandla, who was born in 1952, Nyemwererai Mtawarira, who was born in 1956, and died in 2011, and the youngest daughter, Isheanopa Ngonidzashe, who was born in 1958.

However, from the early 1970s onward, he exercised the droit de cuissage. By the time of his death in 1979, he had at least three illegitimate children of various women between 1971 and 1979, with some sources claiming that he had as many as 70 illegitimate children in that time span.

He was a member of the Embrian Communion, and was known to be extraordinarily devout, with a priest in Port Fitzhubert saying that Izibongo was "an extraordinary member of the church: he made sure to attend every service, and sought to expound these principles in everyone."

He was fluent in Rwizi, Estmerish, and Gaullican, and could carry a basic conversation in the Kirobyi language.

Titles and honors

  • 28 April, 1921 - 2 December, 1954 - Izibongo Ngonidzashe
  • 2 December, 1954 - 2 December, 1964 - His Excellency Izibongo Ngonidzashe, President of the Republic of Rwizikuru
  • 2 December, 1964 - 21 September, 1979 - His Most Faithful Majesty Izibongo Ngonidzashe
  • Full regnal title - His Most Faithful Majesty Ngonidzashe II, by the Grace of God, and by the will of the Rwizikuran people through the MR's heroic efforts against the colonizer, Mambo and N'anga of the Rwizikuran nation and of the Rwizi people

Domestic honors

Foreign honors

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