Court declares Vhavenda king’s appointment illegal

After the Supreme Court of Appeal set aside the appointment of Vhavenda king Toni Mphephu Ramabulana in Bloemfontein on Friday, the family took a firm stand that he will remain a king until the matter has been finalised.
Family spokesperson Ntsieni Ramabulana informed Polo­kwane Observer yesterday (Wednesday) that the court had referred the matter back to the Limpopo Division of the High Court in Thohoyandou for further adjudication on the merits before another judge. He further said in that scenario Mphephu Ramabulana is still recognised as the Vhavenda king until the final decision has been made.
“Mphephu Ramabulana was selected by the Vhavenda royal house to be the king hence the court process is not about him as an individual but for the whole family. Sometimes individuals do things to benefit themselves rather than the Vhavenda people. In our culture, the royal family has the powers to select whoever they want to become the king guided by certain criteria,” Ntsieni explained.
Following the ruling that declared Mphephu Ramabulana’s appointment unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid Premier Stan Mathabatha’s spokesperson, Kenny Mathivha issued a statement indicating that the Office of the Premier would study the judgement and act according to the prescripts of the law. He further said the President who appoints kings will also advise on the matter. Mathivha emphasised that the long drawn-out battle for the throne between Mphephu Ramabulana and Masindi Mphephu, a princess of the royal house, has been raging for many years.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo indicated that they would write to Mathabatha to cease all the benefits and funding to Mphephu Ramabulana’s household until the legitimate king is appointed. In a statement DA Provincial Leader Jacques Smalle said the party acknowledged the role that traditional leaders are playing in communities and therefore kingship matters must be handled delicately.

Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za