The Balobedu Royal Council will on Thursday, June 19 meet at Sehlakong royal kraal outside Tzaneen in Limpopo’s Mopani District, to discuss a way forward after Her Majesty, Queen Masalanabo Modjadji V11 of the Balobedu’s decision to suspend all initiation schools this year.
The 20-year-old Princess Masalanabo was legally recognised by President Cyril as the rightful heir to the Balobedu queendom last year on December 13 amid fierce factions within the royal family.
Royal council spokesperson, Ronnie Moroatshehla, has expressed their disappointment at the decision by Masalanabo. He said she did not have any right to interfere with their traditional ways of living.
The Balobedu Queenship was recognised by the government in 2016.
Disappointment at the move
“We are disappointed by her conduct. More so because she is permanently staying in the Tshwane city with her adopted family, the Motshekga family (Mathole and Angie). And this is something which is against our customs as a leader,” said Moroatshehla. He also confirmed that all their applications for school initiations have been rejected by the government. And this is related to Princess Masalababo’s instructions.
Moroatshehla said what made things worse is other developments in the matter.
“Even our appeal to reverse Masalanabo’s decision was turned down by authorities. [And that is because] Masalanabo’s decisions have support from Premier Phophi Ramathuba, who cited that our application had no authorised royal council.</div>
Council feels disrespected
“As the royal council, we feel undermined. And we feel that the legacy of Balobedu, which has been in existence more than 420 years, has been disrespected,” added Moroatshehla.</div>
He also pointed out that they are a peaceful nation. However, they will not waste time to take action against anyone if they feel that their sovereignty has been undermined.
The leadership of Balobedu has involved in warring internal factions. And Princess Masalanabo is being challenged by her brother Prince Lekukela. Masalanabo who was declared a few years ago as the rightful heir to the throne. However, her brother has been recognised by the other faction as the rightful Balobedu leader.
