Princess Masalanabo Modjadji, recently recognized by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the Balobedu monarch.
The coronation of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji, recently recognized by President Cyril Ramaphosa as the Balobedu monarch, is set for March 2025. The ceremony will be conducted by the Maolwe-based Balobedu Royal Council, which has been central to the ongoing succession dispute.
Professor Mathole Motshekga, Chief Counsellor of the Modjadji Dynasty, confirmed that preparations are underway to establish the Queen’s Council, tasked with overseeing the coronation process.
The exact date will be finalised following consultations with provincial and national government officials.
Motshekga and his wife, Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga, who were previously the guardians of Princess Masalanabo, have faced multiple legal setbacks in their bid to have her recognised as the monarch. This changed with President Ramaphosa’s recent recognition of Princess Masalanabo, a decision that has further deepened divisions within the Rainmaking Nation.
The Office of the Rain Queen, in coordination with Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa, is arranging the handover of the official recognition certificate to Princess Masalanabo.
This marks a significant milestone in the contested royal succession process.
Despite this recognition, the Modjadji Royal Family remains divided over the rightful heir. Following the death of Queen Makobo Modjadji VI, a succession conflict emerged.
One faction of the Royal Family supports her elder brother, Hex Lekukela Modjadji, as the legitimate heir, citing traditional customs. He was ceremonially inaugurated by his supporters.
However, another faction, now backed by President Ramaphosa’s decision, recognises Princess Masalanabo as the rightful monarch, escalating tensions within the Balobedu Nation.
Royal Council spokesperson Ronnie Moroatshehla has indicated that the dispute is far from resolved, and a prolonged legal battle over the throne is expected.
Given the ongoing court cases and unresolved tensions, it is unlikely that either Princess Masalanabo’s coronation or Prince Lekukela’s formal installation will proceed in the near future.