Residents of Hamashau in Thenga village have voiced frustration with their senior traditional leader, Thovhele Thavhayamipfa Mashau, accusing him of ignoring their concerns. Tensions have risen since May, when some community members were allegedly barred from making funeral contributions or participating in village activities.
Following the death of Vhamusanda Vho Fhatuwani William Thenga in 2018, the village was left without a local leader. The traditional council initially appointed the Khadzi (female royal advisor) as acting head of the royal family, but she was later removed over allegations of misusing council funds.
Thovhele Mashau then appointed local teacher Mr Edzisani Muthathe as acting community leader, reporting directly to him. The Khadzi's council was dissolved shortly afterward, dividing the village into two factions — those who support Muthathe and those who reject his authority. As a result, khoro (council) meetings are now held separately: one at the school, the other at the local grounds.
Four months into his role, Muthathe began overseeing funeral contributions and other community matters. He said the Thovhele had instructed them not to collect contributions for certain burials. Residents who fail to pay the R20 monthly funeral fee are allegedly fined R30.
In one case, Muthathe said some council members tried to pay their fines but were told to pay R200 instead. "We reported the matter to the royal council, but we were excluded from village activities and got no assistance," he said.
Supporters of Muthathe say they are now denied access to funeral funds and other community services. Resident Ms Lucia Mposi said she could not afford the new fees. "My family is poor. I'm being treated unfairly for refusing to pay," she said.
Mposi accused the traditional leadership of imposing levies without consultation and claimed some residents were threatened with eviction for not complying. Depending on the situation, supporters of Muthathe are reportedly required to pay R50, R100 or R200, in addition to fines for missing the monthly contribution.
Chairperson of the Mashau Traditional Council Mr Ratshilumela Mashau, speaking on behalf of the Thovhele, denied the allegations. "The Thovhele cares for his people and always puts their needs first. If there are concerns, residents should report them to the tribal council to be addressed through proper channels," he said.