How disputes must be dealt with in terms of the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Act.

The AmaNdebele people (Southern Ndebele) who occupy significant portions of land in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, seek to form a unified kingdom of their own within the Republic of South Africa.

In order to do so, approximately 1 100 AmaNdebele move to occupy an area known as Bronkhorstspruit. The AmaNdebele intend to establish their kingdom in this area with the capital being Loopspruit. They intend on renaming their capital to EkuPhumeleni (place of rest). It is not without dispute that Musi, the son of Mhlanga, is the leader of the AmaNdebele. This is so because prior to colonisation, the last reigning king was from Mhlanga’s household. Musi is supported by a team of senior leaders who form the King’s Council (imphakathi).

In terms of organisation, the AmaNdebele are grouped into wards (izilindi) and each ward has a head. Family groups within the wards are governed by heads of families. The AmaNdebele women wear a variety of ornaments which specifically denote their status in society. AmaNdebele boys usually walk around naked or wear a small apron made from goatskin and the girls, bearded aprons, or skirts. Ndebele men distinctively wear goatskin coverings and on special occasions, ornaments made by their wives.

The main reason for the move to Bronkhorstspruit is for the AmaNdebele to fully practice their customs and customary law without interference. It is thus evident that they are a deeply cultural people who desire to be bound by their customs and traditions.

QUESTION : Suppose for this question only a dispute arises around the legitimacy of King Musi. Advise on how disputes must be dealt with in terms of the Traditional and Khoisan Leadership Act.