By Ndumiso Tshuma
The recent selection of the next chief of the Shangani people, following the passing of Chief Tshovani in Chiredzi, has sparked a heated dispute among the royal families and local authorities as some family members are questioning the legitimacy of the chosen heir.
Chief Tshovani, whose real name was Hlaisi Mundau, passed away in 2021 from Covid-19 at the age of 75.
A meeting held on August 27, 2024, to identify the next chief turned contentious, with allegations that the commission overseeing the selection deviated from traditional protocol.
The commission chose Mahike, a candidate some family members argue was unilaterally promoted despite not being from the main royal household.
Chief Tshovani ascended to the throne in July 1995 after the death of his brother, Samson Lisenga Maphindani.
His older son, Felix Mundau, briefly held the position before passing away, leaving the family entangled in a leadership struggle.
A member of the Tshovani royal family, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about the legitimacy of the commission’s proceedings, which included representatives from the local government and other royal houses.
“Our family was supposed to retain the throne, but the commission, which included Chief Chivi, Chief Nhema, and others, handled this issue improperly. They diverted the throne to the small house, which was wrong,” the source stated.
The family member criticised the commission’s conduct, alleging that it disregarded traditional protocols.
“It appeared prearranged. The commission was supposed to listen and form an informed decision on the succession issue for the Shangani people. The commission cannot impose someone on us, we know our history and why their candidate isn’t suited for the throne. Our customs and traditions should guide succession,” the source explained.
The royal family insists they alone have the right to determine the next chief, according to customs and the Tshovani succession constitution of 1959, which they allege was ignored during the meeting.
“It is our responsibility as the royal family to choose the next chief. We even have a 1959 constitution that outlines this process, which was not followed at our meeting on August 27, 2024,” the source added.
The family member suggested external influences and possible bribes may have swayed the commission’s decision.
“We strongly disagree with how the commission conducted the meeting. The local government delegation was supposed to listen to the Tshovani royal houses on who should be the next chief. We told them they should compare this with their records, which include a Tshovani rotation list,” the source continued.
Some family members further argue that Mahike lacks the cultural ties necessary for leadership. According to them, the commission failed to observe cultural practices, such as performing rituals on the mountain, and they pointed out that Mahike does not speak Shangaani.
“There are three sons in contention for the throne. Muteo, the eldest, should rightfully inherit it, supported by his brother Magatse. The commission’s preferred candidate, Mahike, doesn’t even speak Shangaani. How can he communicate with the people of Chiredzi?” questioned the family member.
Historical context also plays a role in the dispute, with family members claiming records show Mahike was disowned by the late Chief Tshovani, raising doubts about his suitability for the role. The source added that Muteo, along with his brother Magatse, should rightfully inherit the throne.
“Historically, Mahike was disowned by his father, Chief Tshovani. He doesn’t have headsmen, while Muteo has Magatse as his headman,” the source stated.
Muteo’s family has submitted grievances to the District Development Coordinators in Chiredzi, Masvingo, and Harare, contesting Mahike’s claim to the chieftaincy. They argue that if Mahike believes he is aggrieved, he should present his case in the Chief Tshovani courts rather than allegedly using influence and promises to gain support.
“Mahike should come to Chief Tshovani’s court and make his case, not buy people’s support with promises just to become chief,” the source stated.
Muteo’s family is also calling for intervention from the National Chiefs Council, led by President Chief Mtshane Khumalo, and Minister of Local Government and Public Works, John Basera.
“Our traditions are being undermined by power-hungry individuals. The meeting of August 27, 2024, which selected Mahike, was null and void because the core family members do not agree with his nomination as chief of the Shangani people. Muteo, as Chief Tshovani’s first son, should continue to lead,” the source declared.
In an interview with CITE, Senator Chief Chitanga, Chairperson of the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs for Masvingo and Chiredzi District, commented that he could not provide a complete statement on the issue, as the selection process has yet to be officially reported to the provincial assembly.
“Those who conducted the selection haven’t reported to the provincial assembly yet, and given that it is November, we culturally do not perform these duties at this time. I will know more when the report is presented. Right now, the team hasn’t reported, but their papers and notes are with the Chiredzi DDC, who serves as their secretariat. Once the report is submitted, I will be able to comment further on what transpired,” Chief Chitanga stated.
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