Makholokoe tribe reflect on their history

By Masilo Malakwane

HARRISMITH – The Makholokoe clan of the Eastern Free State says the country’s past racial system cost them their land.

“In the eightieth century there was a place called Witsieshoek which was named after one of the great king Wetsie. The place initially began from the outskirts of Standerton in Mpumalanga straight to the Free State.”

This research was conducted and presented by Dr. Matholase Moloi who gave the historical background of the Makholokoe tribe on Saturday at Tsebong school, Tshiame B.

Dr. Moloi who is also part of the Makholokoe royal council in the province said the arrival of the British in the country had fuelled racial tensions and divisions within the Makgolokoe dynasty

“Our tribe was unique from others simply because we bought the land with thousands of cattle. The white supremacists had tarnished the name of the great King Wetsie and reputation. They accused our king and labelled him a stock thief and that gave them the opportunity to take over the fertile land of our forefathers in the Eastern Free State”.

He said the Great Kholokoeng tribe kings alongside the Batlokwa tribe had planned the formation of a political party that was intended to reclaim their land after the collapse of negotiations in Britain.

“It was not surprising that images of great Kings who lived before King Wetsie were still available but his was nowhere to be found. This is a sign that the white dictators had snuffed out the name of our great King knowing that history and land goes like hand and glove,” Dr Moloi said.

However, Makholokoe Chief Letsitsa Paulos Moloi provided clarity on the confusion within his tribe; one section in Intabazwe uses the name ‘Bakholokoe’ while elsewhere they call themselves ‘Makholokoe’.

“There is no difference between the two clans. There is a member of my tribe in Intabazwe who called himself King Letsitsa III and that’s not true.”

The Chief also explained their historical origin as Makholokoe. “Our tribe was formed during the split of the Bahurutsi and Bakhatla clans, which later formed the Bapedi tribe who were ruled by the late King Sekhukhune I.”  

He expressed his support for the amendment of section 25 of country’s constitution – of expropriation of land without compensation.

The event was graced by talented local artists and traditional music artist, Poka Moloi commonly known by his fans as Phoka.