Prince Lekukela Modjadji, who is the Rain Queen’s brother, says the recognition of Queen Masalanabo is illegal.
The presidency has paused the long-awaited coronation of Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII and funding while the court deals with the legal challenge from Prince Lekukela Modjadji and royal council members from the Modjadji Royal Council.
The coronation was meant to take place in September to officially place Queen Masalanabo on the throne of the Balobedu nation after being declared queen in December 2024 when South African President Cyril Ramaphosa gave his recognition. However, the state has now pulled out from supporting the massive celebration, following a letter from Prince Lekukela arguing that her recognition is illegal.
In the letter, Minister of Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa, Limpopo MEC for Traditional Affairs Basikopo Makamu, and Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, the prince demanded that the coronation be cancelled. “The President’s recognition of Princess Masalanabo was issued in defiance of pending legal challenges, customary law, and the explicit authority of the Modjadji Royal Council. It is null and void,” the letter reads, accusing government leaders of acting recklessly. The prince said choosing the next monarch is not up to politicians or courts, but a sacred tradition and right of the royal family. This has led to funding by the state being pulled.
