The Orphan and the Ants Part 9 - The Batawana Breakaway

The final split between the two factions was touched off when Tawana travelled with a group of supporters to Sokwane to consult with the by then aging, but nonetheless active, Bakwena Kgosi Motswasele I.

While surviving traditions are at some variance as to the chronology of what happened next, the basic narrative is consistent. Determined to make a bid for power, but aware that his brother’s succession to the throne continued to enjoy the strong backing of leading dikgosana, Tawana was preparing a fall back plan.