The Bulawayo High Court has ruled in favor of John Khumalo, setting aside Zanele Khumalo’s appointment as Regent Chief Mabhikwa. The court found that the appointment was improper, citing that the clan leaders bypassed the Mabhikwa-Khumalo family and that the President’s notice referred to a “regent” rather than a substantive chief .

The dispute began after Chief Vusumuzi Khumalo’s death in 2022, with Zanele appointed as regent for her nine-year-old son, Wayne. However, 32 family members challenged the appointment, arguing it was irrational and ignored proper succession procedures.

John Khumalo argued that the Traditional Leaders Act and Constitution don’t recognize regent chiefs, and the appointment caused division within the family and community. The court referred the matter back to the Chief’s Council, stating that courts lack jurisdiction over traditional leadership appointments .
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