The Modjadji Royal Council has vowed to block the coronation of Princess Masalanabo Modjadji as the Balobedu Queen, slated for April. The royal council’s objection stems from the recent legal recognition of Princess Masalanabo by President Cyril Ramaphosa in December 2024, when she was officially acknowledged as the heir to the Balobedu throne at the age of 18. Her uncle, Mpapatla Modjadji, has served as regent since the death of her mother, Queen Makobo Modjadji, in 2005.
Spokesperson for the royal council, Ronnie Moroatshehla, expressed strong opposition to referring to the Balobedu dynasty as a “Queendom,” emphasizing the kingdom’s historical legacy of male rulers dating back to the 1600s. “The Modjadji Kingdom has always been gender-sensitive,” said Moroatshehla. “The claim of a Queendom is an insult to our history. We will interdict the coronation—it will not happen.”
The controversy intensified after Princess Masalanabo’s elder brother, Prince Lekukela, revealed that the royal family had only learned about her recognition through social media. He criticized the government for not engaging with the family formally, leaving them confused about the decision. “The decision has left the royal family and the entire Balobedu nation confused,” he said, calling the move “unilateral.”
Despite the royal family’s objection, Princess Masalanabo is being celebrated for her achievements, including making history as the first Balobedu queen to pass her matric. As tensions rise over her ascension to the throne, the matter is expected to go to court for further resolution.
