An investigation into challenges relating to traditional leadership succession in the North West Province, South Africa (1927-2015)
Abstract
This study examines challenges relating to succession processes within institutions of traditional leadership. It also investigates succession issues and challenges between 1927-2015 and makes recommendations on the fundamental issue of whether such challenges actually exist as hypothesized. Although successive colonial and apartheid regimes had negative impacts on traditional leadership institutions, as demonstrated by the Native Administration Act of 1927 and Bophuthatswana Traditional Authorities Act of 1987, which empowered the President and the so-called Governor-General respectively with the powers to either depose or install a traditional leader of their choice without following the customary law, it is equally important to note that the post-1994 period brought about its own unique challenges. Since 1994, however, as established in this study, there have been significant processes aimed at revitalising and recognising traditional leadership institutions as
enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, (Act No. 108 of 1996). Chapter 12 of the Constitution of South Africa recognises the status and role of traditional leadership as historically applied within customary practices. Challenges emanating from this piece of legislation are unique and range as follows: firstly, those involving the infighting of tribesmen over traditional leadership and succession issues; secondly, those that relate to the inability of traditional councils in dealing with developmental issues in their respective communities; thirdly, where mining royalties usually serve as trigger mechanisms for the perpetuation of conflicts; and lastly, where the recognition of the role of women in the new dispensation is regarded as constituting the shifting of historical and traditional power dynamics where men have always played a dominant role. The findings established in this study validate an argument that the above-mentioned challenges are the key factors perpetuating disputes over traditional leadership positions. Furthermore, such challenges have impacted negatively on traditional leadership institutions and succession processes. In conclusion, this study responds to and provides solutions to the challenges analysed. This will further assist in terms of policy making and designing of government programmes.
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