Bapedi people reject Ngoako Ramatlhodi's appointment as prime minister

Bapedi people reject Ngoako Ramatlhodi’s appointment as prime minister

The appointment of former Limpopo Premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi as the new prime minister of the Bapedi Nation has sparked controversy and widespread rejection among South Africans, particularly within the Bapedi community.
Ramatlhodi, a long-serving African National Congress (ANC) member and former Premier of Limpopo, was appointed by the Bapedi royal family to serve as the first-ever prime minister of the Bapedi people.

This position is intended to be similar to that of the Zulu prime minister, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, overseeing affairs within the Bapedi Kingdom.

However, the decision to appoint Ramatlhodi has not been well received by many members of the Bapedi royal family and community. Critics, including royal family members, have raised concerns about the lack of consultation with the Bapedi people before the appointment was made.
Some question whether Ramatlhodi, who is not widely known as a member of the Bapedi royal lineage, is truly connected to the tribe.

There is also skepticism regarding his leadership abilities and his past record, particularly during his tenure as Limpopo’s Premier, which many view as having been marked by underperformance.

In an online discussion, one critic, Joas Chidi, asked, “How? Is he even a member of the royal family?” while another, Ngwato Thobejane, said, “As members of the Bapedi royal family, we were not consulted.” Some even expressed concern that Ramatlhodi might later claim affiliation with other tribes, creating confusion and division within the Bapedi nation. “A well-known spy becomes a prime minister,” remarked one skeptic, Mlando.
Despite the backlash, the royal house has defended the decision, insisting that Ramatlhodi was chosen purely on merit.

The Bapedi royal house, led by Mampuru Sekwati, emphasized that the appointment was not about family ties but about selecting someone with the experience and leadership skills to represent and advance the interests of the Bapedi people.

This controversy over Ramatlhodi’s appointment highlights ongoing tensions within South African politics, traditional leadership, and the role of royal families in modern governance. While Ramatlhodi’s supporters argue that he can bring significant political experience to the role, many in the Bapedi community remain unconvinced, calling for a reconsideration of the decision and greater inclusivity in the process.