Premier SOR Mahumapelo responds to accusations on Bakgatla ba kgafela matter
The North West Office Of the Premier has noted an article in the Sowetan on Friday 4 March 2016 with the caption “Premier milking dispute” which states that the Bakgatla ba Kgafela royal family are angry at Premier Mahumapelo for ignoring a ruling by the provincial commission on traditional leadership disputes.
In the same article Mr Mmuthi Pilane accuses Premier Mahumapelo of having interests in mines and lodges around the area and of wanting to benefit financially.
Mmuthi Pilane chooses to ignore the facts he knows very well regarding this matter and opted to make the above accusations.
On the face of the statement he made, it warranted him to approach the relevant law enforcement agency to investigate the irregularities which put the Premier in a conflicted situation according to him.
If the allegations he is making have substance, he is advised to approach law enforcement agencies and submit evidence .
The fact that the report was ignored is misplaced, to say the least. It is within the Premier’s purview to consider the report and thereafter to approve or disapprove, and he opted for the latter, which was followed by reasons duly given to the claimant.
In an event Mr Pilane was ill informed from any quarters by people without facts, hence he made the accusations on the article which are defamatory in nature. He is called upon by the Premier to make an apology in the newspaper on or before Tuesday 8 March 2016. Failing which the Premier reserves his rights to pursue legal avenues.
Any effort exerted by the Premier in relation to the bakgatla ba Kgafela is intended to bring finality and unity in the Bakgatla ba kgafela in general and unfortunately there is no one who will derail this effort.
For enquiries, contact:
Brian Setswambung
Cell: 076 012 4501
E-mail: bsetswambung@nwpg.gov.za
