On 9 September 2025, the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein delivered its judgment in the appeal brought by Kgosi Nyalala Pilane, the Traditional Council, and the Bakgatla-ba Kgafela Royal Family in Moruleng, challenging the earlier ruling of the Mahikeng High Court.
The Royal Family fully welcomes and affirms this landmark judgment.
This judgment unequivocally confirms that the Premier’s unilateral appointment of an administrator — without a formal recommendation from the Royal Family — was unlawful.
Furthermore, the court affirmed that the Premier holds no legal authority to withdraw the certificate of recognition of a Kgosi in the absence of a valid decision and supporting reasons from a statutorily recognised Royal Family under the laws of the North West Province.
We commend the judiciary for its steadfast application of the Constitution and the rule of law.
This ruling not only vindicates the longstanding position of the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela Royal Family in Moruleng, but also reinforces the constitutional principle that governance must be executed within the bounds of law — not political expediency.
This is a precedent-setting judgment that reasserts the proper role of the Premier and all public officials: to honour the Oath of Office and uphold the rule of law without fear or favour. The judgment affirms the constitutional and legislative authority of the Royal Family in Moruleng, as outlined in the North West Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act, 2005.
Crucially, the court recognised the years of instability and uncertainty endured by the Bakgatla ba-Kgafela community in Moruleng. This ruling should mark a turning point — a moment of clarity and a path forward toward stability, unity, economic growth, and sustainable development for our people.
As the Royal Family, we will consult with our legal team to consider the next steps. What remains certain is this: the judgment restores the rightful leadership of Kgosi Nyalala Pilane and empowers the Traditional Council to work in partnership with government and all stakeholders to advance the aspirations of the Moruleng community.
A CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY AND UNITY
We now call on all stakeholders — including those who may have aligned themselves with unlawful actions — to respect the authority of the court and the rule of law. Some stakeholders have actively funded and supported individuals whose only agenda was to sow division and conflict within our community. Such conduct must cease immediately.
This extended period of conflict has regrettably impeded development, undermined the integrity of traditional leadership structures, and challenged the constitutional principles upon which our democracy stands. It has cast an unwelcome shadow over our community. We believe the moment has arrived to restore order, rebuild trust, and move forward with dignity and unity.
Kgosi Nyalala Pilane, the Traditional Council, and the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela Royal Family in Moruleng reaffirm our commitment to building a viable, sustainable, and united Morafe. Our journey continues — and we remain undeterred by external noise or distractions.
Let this moment serve as a reset — guided by the Constitution, driven by principle, and grounded in our shared vision for a prosperous future.
