Original Articles

Succession to Bogosi among the Batlhako ba Matutu in a changing dispensation

Published in: Anthropology Southern Africa
Volume 30 , issue 1-2 , 2007 , pages: 45–55

DOI: 10.1080/23323256.2007.11499946

Author(s): RD Coertze School of Law, University of South Africa, , FC de Beer Department of Anthropology and Archaeology,

Keywords: Batlhako ba Matutu , lekgotla , lesika , dikgosana , pitso , genealogy , succession , succession disputes , Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Amendment Act (No 41 of 2003) , Nhlapo Commission , Viviers Commission

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Abstract

Dealing with a succession dispute among the Batlhako ba Matutu required a study of their politico-administrative structure, their marriage rules and procedures, as well as the genealogical succession of their senior traditional leaders since 1830. Research findings disclosed traditional rules of succession that determine the legitimacy of claims to bogosi and the procedures that must be followed in the designation of a rightful successor. The study among the Batlhako ba Matutu also revealed that succession disputes are currently complicated by European-influenced culture change and administrative intolerance in the application of policy.

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