24 Apr 2014

Residents of Mmadinare have welcomed the appointment of Mr Mphoeng Mphoeng, son of the late Kgosi Kebuileng Mphoeng, as heir to the Mmadinare chieftaincy.

The residents sang, danced and ululated at a meeting held at the Mmadinare main kgotla on April 23, when Bangwato deputy tribal authority, Kgosi Serogola Seretse announced Mr Mphoeng as the rightful heir to the traditional leadership of Mmadinare.

“The minister of local government, Mr Peter Siele has endorsed and recognised Mr Mphoeng Mphoeng as the rightful heir to the Mmadinare chieftaincy. He will assume his duties after he completes his studies in October next year,” said Kgosi Seretse.

He added that in the meantime, Kgosi Phukuntsi Seeletso will continue holding fort as regent just as he had been doing since Kgosi Kebuileng Mphoeng died. For his part, Kgosi Seeletso said he was happy that the Mmadinare chieftaincy issue had finally been resolved and Mr Mphoeng will take over the reign.

He said he would now be able to step down and give way for Mr Mphoeng to lead his people, adding that he expressed his desire to retire as far back as 2008.

“When I announced that I intend to retire, conflict arose among some members of the community as to who is the rightful heir to the chieftaincy. I am happy that this issue has now been resolved and I hope the people of Mmadinare will support Mr Mphoeng and help him execute his duties diligently,” he said.

For his part, Kgosi Mokhutshwane Sekgoma from Bangwato Tribal Authority told Mr Mphoeng that patience, thoughtfulness, discipline, responsibility and cleverness were traits that would make him a good leader.

“You must study your people and know their various characters. Beware of trouble makers and those who always deviate from the norm. But always treat people with equality and fairness,” he said.

Mr Mphoeng told the fully packed kgotla that he accepted his appointment to follow the footsteps of his father and ancestors and lead the people of Mmadinare. He said he looks forward to the support of the people of Mmadinare and called for peace and unity to reign. ENDS