A public spat has erupted between Sbu Mpisane and his ex-wife, Shauwn MaMkhize, over the ownership of the Royal Ranch property in Pietermaritzburg. The property, which spans 27.8665 hectares, was previously home to the Royal AM football club. Mpisane has filed a complaint with the police alleging that MaMkhize transferred ownership of the property to the Sbusha Trust without his knowledge or consent.
According to Mpisane's complaint, the property was transferred to the Sbusha Trust in 2016, and he was only made aware of the change when he was contacted by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) regarding tax contributions. This has raised questions about the process followed in establishing the trust and the change in ownership. MaMkhize has denied any wrongdoing, stating that she only learned of the allegations through media inquiries.
MaMkhize has taken to social media to express her frustration with the public nature of the dispute, stating that she will not engage in a public feud and will instead allow the legal process to unfold. She has also pointed out that Mpisane was left with significant assets, including the Royal Eagles Football Club, a home in La Lucia, and several vehicles, following their separation.
The dispute has also drawn in MaMkhize's lawyer, Jennifer Faber, who has distanced herself from the matter. Faber stated that she has not worked with MaMkhize for years and had no involvement in the transfer of ownership of the property. Mpisane's allegations have also raised questions about the role of a bank in the transfer of ownership and a potential R20 million loan related to the property.
The property dispute is the latest development in the ongoing saga between Mpisane and MaMkhize, who have been embroiled in a messy divorce since 2018. The couple officially separated in 2024, but the dispute over assets and property continues. A court recently ruled that five of MaMkhize's properties could be sold to settle a tax debt owed to SARS.
Mpisane's complaint has also highlighted concerns about the governance of the Sbusha Trust and the transfer of ownership of the property. The trust was established for the benefit of Mpisane and MaMkhize's family, but Mpisane alleges that he was not involved in the decision to transfer ownership of the property. MaMkhize has refused to comment further on the matter, citing ongoing legal proceedings.
The dispute between Mpisane and MaMkhize continues to play out in public, with both parties trading barbs on social media. The matter is expected to be resolved through the courts, but for now, the ownership of the Royal Ranch property remains a contentious issue.
Key points
- The dispute centers on the ownership of the Royal Ranch property in Pietermaritzburg.
- Mpisane alleges that MaMkhize transferred ownership of the property without his knowledge or consent.
- The dispute is part of a larger saga between Mpisane and MaMkhize, who have been embroiled in a messy divorce since 2018.
