... says his credibility, authority currently at risk

MBABANE – ‘‘My credibility and authority is currently at risk due to the perpetual and constant challenge of my powers by Nonhlanhla Mabuza.’’

These averments were made by Chief Jabhane Dlamini of Siphocosini in the application where he is seeking an order interdicting Mabuza from convening ritual graduation (kuphotfulwa) at the umphakatsi.

He submitted that he was in dire need of urgent intervention to protect his undermined or challenged authority.

“Should Mabuza succeed in going ahead with the ritual graduation ceremony, as greatly anticipated, my credibility and eligibility to hold authority, to use my power of authority will be prejudiced.

‘‘This would mean that Mabuza can ride over my rights willy- nilly and deprive me of my inheritance which by law and custom I am a beneficiary,” contended Chief Jabhane.

Authority

The chief argued that Mabuza’s constant and perpetual challenge of his authority was a clear indication and proof that she now considered herself to be beyond reproach and that she had no regard for the rightful authorised person to wield such authority.

“I must humbly state that when my mother died and subsequently followed by my father, their house which they lived in remained vacant, and the first respondent (Mabuza) moved in, though with my consent. I allowed her because the house would have someone cleaning and maintaining it,’’ narrated Chief Jabhane.

He went on to tell the court that Mabuza had all along been living and staying at her mother’s house within the umphakatsi.

The matter is pending in court.