The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has reiterated the authority of the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in determining and legitimising traditional leadership, following unrest linked to a disputed coronation in KuGompo.
In a statement issued on Monday, 30 March 2026, the EFF emphasised that only legally recognised processes can confer royal status in South Africa, warning that any deviation from these procedures undermines both the law and the country’s governance systems. The party’s remarks come amid growing tensions in KuGompo, where an alleged self-proclaimed “King of the Igbo Nation,” reportedly an individual of foreign origin, has sparked outrage and violent protests within the community. The EFF described the situation as both irresponsible and avoidable, arguing that authorities should have acted swiftly to prevent confusion and unrest.
According to the party, the recognition of kings, queens, and traditional leaders is governed by strict legislative processes. These include a formal recommendation by the Minister of COGTA to the President of South Africa, followed by recognition under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act and publication in the Government Gazette. “It is not only offensive but also illegal for any individual to declare themselves a monarch outside of these legislative processes,” the statement read. The EFF further stressed that it is particularly unacceptable for a foreign national to claim kingship within South Africa, noting that traditional leadership carries legal authority over land and communities and cannot be treated lightly.
The party also placed responsibility on the media to report accurately and responsibly, urging journalists to avoid presenting unverified claims of coronation as legitimate without clarifying whether legal requirements have been met. Condemning the alleged coronation, the EFF called for calm in KuGompo and urged both government and traditional leaders to communicate clearly with communities about the lawful processes governing royal recognition. The party also denounced acts of violence and destruction of property, accusing some political actors of exploiting the situation for political gain.
Furthermore, the EFF announced that its structures in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality have been tasked with closely monitoring developments and assisting affected residents. The party also called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for instigating violence and damaging infrastructure. The situation in KuGompo remains tense, with calls growing for decisive intervention to restore order and reinforce the rule of law in matters of traditional leadership.
