Reason

04 July, 2014

My uncle robbed me of my inheritance

My father had full ownership of an expensive house in Phakalane. In 2004, when I was 10 years old, he passed away, and I have been raised by a single mother. My parents were staying together and marriage negotiations were at an advanced stage prior to the demise of my dad. Immediately after his burial my uncle kicked us out of the house and I temporarily relocated to Zimbabwe to stay with my grandfather who had just parted ways with her Motswana girlfriend who happens to be my grandma. Whenever my mother would ask for our house back, my uncle would threaten to humiliate her and destroy her. Since I had moved to Zim right after my father's death, I'm not familiar with the laws and authorities here. Our financial conditions are worsening as my education needs are growing. However, my father’s brother had taken the house unlawfully and has been living in there since my father's death. Also, since my uncle is a very dangerous person because of his strong attachment to traditional doctors, I am afraid of what he would do if I go there and try to take my property back. My question is that, in such circumstances, am I still entitled to take my rightful property? And if yes, are there any suggestions on how I should go about doing so?

Reason

Gaborone

Setlogolo, you did not state whether there was a will or any document showing that you father had wanted you to inherit the house. I can only advice you seek advice from social workers to establish facts regarding your father’s estate and to establish what you are entitled to and map a way forward.