Gov�t sets up enquiry into Batlokwa, Bakgatla dispute

Tefo Pheage | Thursday October 13, 2016 17:00

The probe led by Kgosi Kebinatshwene Mosielele of Manyana and Kgosi Masie of Taung, Ramotswa held its first enquiry this past week in Oodi where they informed morafe that they have been sent by the Minister to establish the truth about the Oodi bogosi.

Bakgatla and Batlokwa royals are embroiled in an ugly feud over the Oodi chieftaincy that originally alternated between the two tribes following Batlokwa’s arrival in Oodi after fleeing tribal wars in Kweneng in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Starting his meeting, Mosielele divided morafe along tribal lines.

“Those who are Bakgatla please raise your hands,” he said to the satisfaction of multitudes who outnumbered those who said they were Batlokwa.

Batlokwa later argued that the question was unfair as they are also Batlokwa of Kgafela.

Mosielele later informed the gathering that he would report back to Tsogwane before returning to give them feedback.

In an interview with Mmegi, Tsogwane said he did not know what delayed the report on the feud, as it should have long been submitted.

“We will act on the report based on the findings and recommendations,” he said, further imploring merafe to document their history to avoid this type of confusion.

Early this year, Batlokwa royals reported the matter to Tsogwane, asking him to intervene, as they believed that Kgosi Segale Linchwe was biased in favour of his tribe, Bakgatla. Segale later recused himself.

Segale is of the view that the Oodi chieftaincy by virtue of not being a birthright, should alternate between the two tribes’ royal wards of Kgosing and Monneng.

This, he argues, is an agreement long entered into by the royal ancestors of the land, something that Batlokwa have dismissed.

It is understood Bakgatla want the ballot system and have nominated their name which will be competing with that of Batlokwa whereas Batlokwa do not want the ballot system as they are numerically disadvantaged after the dispute was turned tribal.

Observers say the report outcome is highly likely to further divide the tribe, while others believe it could be a panacea to Oodi’s tribal divisions.