BY REGINALD KANYANE
The North West premier, Supra Mahumapelo may pursue legal action against one of Bakgatla Ba Kgafela’s royal member, Mmuthi Pilane.

This came after a ‘defamatory’ article published on Sowetan newspaper on Friday 4 March 2016 with the caption “Premier milking dispute”.

According to acting provincial government spokesperson, Brian Setswambung, the article states that the Bakgatla ba Kgafela royal family is angry at him for ignoring  a ruling by the provincial commission on traditional leadership disputes.

“In the same article Pilane accuses Mahumapelo of having interests in mines and lodges around the area and want to benefit financially.

“Pilane chooses to ignore the facts that he knows very well regarding this matter and opted to make  the above accusations,” Setswambung said.

 He said that Pilane can approach the relevant law enforcement agency to launch investigation for irregularities which put Mahumapelo in a conflicted situation according to him.

“If the allegations he is making have substance, he is advised to approach law enforcement agencies and submit evidence .

“The fact that the report was ignored is misplaced to say the least. It is within the premier’s purview to consider the report and thereafter to approve or disapprove it. So Mahumapelo opted for the latter, which was followed by reasons duly given to the claimant,” he said.

Setswambung said in an event, Pilane was ill informed from any quarters by people without facts. He further added that hence Pilane made the accusations on the article which are defamatory in nature.

“Pilane is called upon by the Mahumapelo to make an apology in the newspaper on or before Tuesday 8 March 2016. Failing to do so, the premier will use his rights to pursue legal avenues.

“Any effort exerted by the Mahumapelo in relation to the Bakgatla Ba Kgafela is intended to bring finality and unity in the community in general. Unfortunately there is no one who will derail this effort,” Setswambung concluded.
-TDN
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