Khama is demanding that the minister appoints Seretse Peter Khama as the regent. Consequently, Chief Justice Terrence Rannowane has empanelled three judges to the matter namely Justices Bengbame Sechele, Godfrey Nthomiwa and Itumeleng Segopolo each from Francistown, Maun, and Gaborone High Courts respectively. The case returned to court earlier this month with Khama and Seretse Peter Khama represented by Tapiwa Abel while the minister and Attorney General as the first and second respondents were represented by Itseng Mothibamele of Bogopa Manewe Attorneys.
Justice Maripe on June 12 after hearing the matter and reading the documents said he couldn't continue presiding over the matter because Seretse Peter Khama is married to someone he relates to. The file was subsequently returned to the registrar to be reallocated. Interestingly, Maripe is the fourth judge to recuse himself from matters concerning Khama and government over Bagammangwato chieftaincy. In December, three judges recused themselves in an urgent application which as a result couldn't be heard timely. Justice Barnabas Nyamadzabo was the first to be assigned the matter but let it slide because he had other urgent applications to attend to. Justice Ranier Busang was then handed the matter but recused himself citing conflict of interest. Justice Boipuso Makhwe was assigned the case but also recused herself. The matter was then withdrawn before Justice Chris Gabanagae of the Gaborone High Court presiding over it. Bagammangwato royals, led by former president Khama, were at the time contesting government's denial of access to the Kgotla.
