The Vhavenda royal family has nominated Mavhungu David Mphephu Ramabulana as their regent after weeks of postponements.
Sowetan learnt on Tuesday through insiders that a two-hour meeting had been held by the core royal family members who unanimously nominated Mavhungu.
Mavhungu, who is popularly known as Japan, is the paternal uncle to Princess Masindi Mphephu and embattled former king Toni Mphephu Ramabulana. He is the younger brother to both Toni and Masindi's fathers.
Royal family spokesperson Charles Ramabulana confirmed that Prince Mavhungu was elected unanimously by the family elders, adding that they believe he will add stability and continuity.
“The meeting lasted for two hours where the elders agreed that Mavhungu should become the regent of Vhavenda nation. We have trust in him that he will lead the nation until the matter between Princess Masindi and Prince Toni is fully ventilated in court,” he said.
Ramabulana said the meeting took place at the royal kraal at Dzanani in Nzhelele region.
“The elders met with the lawyers on Sunday at Dzanani where they received legal advice as per the Constitutional Court order. You should note that the court ordered we should properly constitute the royal family and we are doing exactly that,” he said.
Last month Sowetan reported that government has withdrawn its financial support of R1.2m annual salary to Toni and took away security at his private residence following last year's court ruling which set aside his appointment.
This after Princess Masindi dragged Toni to court and won after arguing that she was the eligible heir to the throne and that his appointment should be set aside.
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