Afrika Mayibuye Movement leader, Floyd Shivambu and his high-profile delegation during their arrival at the headquarters of the Balobedu Kingdom.
The race for the historic November 4 local government elections is heating up. Political leaders are flocking to Khetlhakone, the capital of the Modjadji Royal Nation in the Greater Letaba Local Municipality.
On Saturday, the leader of the newly formed Afrika Mayibuye Movement, Floyd Shivambu, led a high-profile delegation to the headquarters of the Balobedu Kingdom. The visit is part of a growing trend of political parties trying to win the favor of traditional leaders before the watershed municipal polls.
A Star-Studded Entourage
Shivambu was not alone on his journey to the royal palace. His entourage included the famous musician and politician Penny Penny, who recently made headlines after resigning from the Umkhonto weSizwe Party to join Mayibuye.
The political visitors were received by the chosen King Lekukela Modjadji VII alongside the Senior Royal Leader and former Regent, Prince Mpapatla Modjadji. The Modjadji Royal Family and Council welcomed the team to discuss the history, heritage, and needs of the kingdom.
Speaking after the meeting, Shivambu praised the rich history of the Balobedu people. He noted that the kingdom is one of the oldest in South Africa and traces its roots back to the ancient Munhumutapa Kingdom.
“We learnt a lot today,” Shivambu said. “Mayibuye always and consistently respects and honours traditional and royal leaders in South Africa. Our mandate remains total freedom and emancipation now.”
The Battle for Khetlhakone
The visit comes at a time when Khetlhakone has become a mandatory stop for political parties. Major organisations like the African National Congress, the South African Communist Party, and the Economic Freedom Fighters have all sent delegations to the royal capital.
However, political tension is high in the region. The governing ANC and its provincial leaders have been frequent visitors, but their relationship with the broader royal community faces scrutiny. Through the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, the government recently gifted a luxury vehicle to a rival claimant to the throne, Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII.
This move split opinions in the area. The government was also dragged into a major local controversy when it shut down 13 initiation schools that had been approved by Queen Masalanabo. The rival queen took the matter to the High Court in a bid to force the schools to reopen, but she ultimately lost the legal battle.
Eyes on November
With the 13 illegal schools officially closed by government intervention, Prince Lekukela Modjadji VII and Prince Mpapatla Modjadji continue to command the main royal council.
As the November 4 elections draw closer, small and large parties alike know that traditional leaders hold massive influence over rural voters in Limpopo. By showing deep respect to the Balobedu Kingdom, Shivambu and his Mayibuye movement hope to build a strong foundation in the province.
Floyd Shivambu and Prince Lekukela Modjadji.