The Vhavenda nation, and especially the Mphephu Ramabulana royal family, woke up on Sunday morning (27 October) to the sad news that Khadzi Vho Phophi Mphephu Ramabulana had passed away.
Rumours of her death began circulating on Sunday afternoon, but the family, through their spokesperson, Mr Ntsieni Ramabulana, only confirmed her passing on Sunday evening.
The 90-year-old Khadzi Vho Phophi held a very important position in the Vhavenda royal family. Among her many duties, the Khadzi also had the final say in the selection of an heir to the throne.
Sadly, she passed away at a time when the family needed her wisdom most, and before the finalisation of the High Court trial set to determine the next successor to the throne. The two cousins, Toni Mphephu Ramabulana and Masindi Mphephu Ramabulana, are contesting for this title, but it may also be decided that someone else within the family will become the next king or queen. The court battle has been ongoing for over a decade and is currently being heard in the Limpopo High Court in Polokwane.
Family spokesperson, Mr Ntsieni Ramabulana, confirmed late on Sunday afternoon that the Khadzi had passed away. "I just received a call informing me of her passing. She had been ill for some time," he said. Ramabulana added that he did not have the full details but said the family would be meeting and hoped to release a full statement by Monday.
A royal family member, who preferred to remain anonymous, said her passing would not affect the current trial to determine a successor. "The old woman had run her race, and it is her time to rest. She was at an advanced age, and fortunately, she left everything in order, so the case will progress smoothly, even in her absence," he said.
A full and comprehensive report will appear in this week's edition.