Key Takeaways
- Former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela has spoken out about a possible security breach at her Stellenbosch property
- Madonsela is involved in a dispute with the estate of her late partner, Richard Foxton, over his will and estate
- She claims that the executors of the estate have attempted to slander her, evict her from a shared home, and deny her 10-year relationship with Foxton
- Madonsela is disputing the validity of a 2025 will submitted to the master of the court and is asking the high court to remove the current executors
- She has expressed concerns about her safety and has suggested that someone may have illegally gained access to her property
Introduction to the Dispute
The former Public Protector of South Africa, Thuli Madonsela, has recently spoken out about a dispute involving the estate of her late partner, Richard Foxton, who passed away in June. Madonsela has been advised by a specialist to speak out about a possible security breach at her Stellenbosch property, in the event that something should happen to her. This suggests that Madonsela is taking precautions to ensure her safety and is prepared for any potential consequences of speaking out about the dispute. The dispute itself involves a range of issues, including the validity of Foxton’s will, the management of his estate, and the treatment of Madonsela by the executors of the estate.
The Dispute Over the Estate
At the heart of the dispute is the management of Foxton’s estate, which is being handled by executors who Madonsela claims have acted in a manner that is not in the best interests of Foxton’s family or his legacy. Madonsela has stated that the executors have attempted to slander her, evict her from a shared home in Johannesburg, and deny her nearly 10-year relationship with Foxton. These actions have been deeply distressing for Madonsela, who has described the experience as "perplexing" and has expressed concerns about the motivations of the executors. Furthermore, Madonsela has suggested that the executors may have acted without the knowledge or consent of Foxton’s adult children, who are also affected by the dispute.
The Property Dispute
One of the key issues in the dispute is a property that Madonsela and Foxton purchased together in Stellenbosch in 2021. The property was intended to be Madonsela’s home while she worked and eventually, possibly, her retirement home. However, Madonsela has suggested that one of the executors of Foxton’s estate may have illegally gained access to the property in order to have it re-evaluated. The property’s value was increased from R7.5 million to R10 million, a significant increase that Madonsela believes may be related to the executor’s actions. This has left Madonsela feeling uneasy and has raised concerns about her safety and security. The thought of someone having been to her house without her knowledge or consent has had a "chilling effect" on her family, and Madonsela has taken steps to ensure that her property is secure.
The Legal Battle Ahead
Madonsela is taking legal action to resolve the dispute and to protect her interests. She is disputing the validity of a 2025 will that was submitted to the master of the court and is asking the high court to remove the current executors of Foxton’s estate. This is a significant step, and Madonsela is likely to face opposition from the executors and other parties involved in the dispute. However, Madonsela is determined to ensure that Foxton’s legacy is protected and that his wishes are respected. She has also expressed her desire to clear her name and to set the record straight about her relationship with Foxton and her involvement in the dispute.
Conclusion
The dispute over Richard Foxton’s estate is a complex and sensitive issue that involves a range of parties and interests. Thuli Madonsela’s decision to speak out about the dispute and to take legal action is a brave one, and it reflects her commitment to protecting her own interests and those of Foxton’s family. As the dispute unfolds, it is likely that more information will come to light, and the parties involved will be held to account for their actions. For now, Madonsela’s safety and security remain a concern, and it is hoped that the legal system will provide her with the protection and justice she deserves. Ultimately, the outcome of the dispute will depend on the evidence and the law, and it is likely to be a long and challenging process for all parties involved.
