The longstanding conflict within the Bapedi royal house is set to reach a crucial juncture on Wednesday as Queen Manyaku Thulare challenges her removal as acting Bapedi Royal Queen at the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA).
This follows a previous ruling by the Polokwane High Court, which declared that Queen Thulare cannot inherit the throne left by her deceased son, King Victor Thulare III.
Handing down his judgement in 2022, Judge President Ephraim Makgoba ordered Manyaku to step down. He stated that her stepson, Prince Morwamohube Ernest Thulare, is the rightful regent to assume the throne vacated by his brother.
King passed on in 2021
Queen Manyaku had been the acting queen since the king’s death in January 2021 due to an illness related to Covid-19.
Judge Makgoba’s ruling is believed to have intensified the discord within the Bapedi royal family. According to the judgement, Prince Morwamohube’s identification as the acting king and seed raiser aligned with the customs and long-established traditions of the Bapedi nation.
Despite the High Court’s decision, the Bapedi Kingdom remains in a state of contention. Kabelo Matsepe, a representative of the royal family, has confirmed, however, that Queen Thulare is determined to overturn this ruling and assert her “rightful place” as regent.
“We are confident that the lower court’s decision will be overturned. And that the [SCA] will clarify the composition of the royal family,” stated Matsepe. “It is about ensuring the continuity and stability of our kingdom’s leadership. And also respecting our traditional practices.”
Matsepe emphasised that the Bapedi Kingdom is not in crisis, despite the legal turmoil.
“We remain united with the Queen’s assistance,” he said. “Like any other royal family, we encounter opportunists driven by personal business interests. These individuals within the family seek to lead through improper means, disregarding established protocols.”
Blames patriarchal attitudes
Matsepe highlighted the broader implications of the dispute. He pointed out that the situation also points to negative and enduring patriarchal attitudes.
“Some people do not believe a woman can lead. However, despite the challenges we face, we currently have a leader on the throne guiding our nation.”
The upcoming hearing is expected to address the intricate issues surrounding the succession and governance of the Bapedi Kingdom.
Matsepe believes the outcome will have significant consequences for the kingdom’s future leadership and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
