Thabiso Madiba Regains Control of Naledi Funeral Planners After 10-Month Power Struggle

Founder Thabiso Madiba has regained full control of Naledi Funeral Planners following a High Court judgment in his favour. The ruling ends a 10-month power struggle that threatened to paralyse the company. Madiba's faction had been locked out of company funds and unable to make key business decisions. The dispute involved a faction led by former board chairperson Malefetsane Tlelima.

The power struggle began at Naledi's Annual General Meeting on January 16, 2026. Shareholders holding over 70 percent of the company's shares voted to dissolve the existing board and remove Tlelima as chairperson. However, Tlelima and some directors walked out, claiming the meeting had been adjourned. The remaining shareholders proceeded, voting to appoint Madiba as chair.

Tlelima approached the High Court, seeking to have the decisions declared null and void. However, the court dismissed his application, confirming the authority of the directors appointed at the January AGM. The court ruling allows Madiba, Khojane Madiba, and Tšolo Seutloali to lead the company as lawful directors.

The dispute severely affected Naledi's operations, leaving it unable to access approximately M75 million held in different banks. The company was unable to make important business decisions or enter into agreements due to the unclear leadership. Banks refused to recognise the new leadership, and the One-Stop Business Facilitation Centre did not reflect the changes in company records.

Madiba announced plans to prioritise investment in operations, improve service delivery, and restore public confidence. The company will also undergo changes in executive management, with Tšolo Seutloali appointed Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and Dr Mphekeleli Hoohlo as Chief Operations Officer.

Attorney Khotso Nthontho, a new board member, welcomed the judgment, citing its significance in clarifying the company's leadership and strategic direction. He believes the ruling will help Naledi address reputational damage and restore investor confidence.

Naledi Funeral Planners, founded in 2013, operates 25 branches across Lesotho. The company has grown into one of the country's largest funeral services providers. Madiba expressed his commitment to regaining public trust and providing high-quality services that exceed customer expectations.

Key points

• The High Court ruling ends a 10-month power struggle at Naledi Funeral Planners, allowing Thabiso Madiba to regain control of the company.
• The dispute had severely impacted the company's operations, leaving it unable to access M75 million in bank funds.
• Naledi Funeral Planners plans to prioritise investment in operations, improve service delivery, and restore public confidence.