By Anita Dangazele
- Cogta MEC Zolile Williams says the department rejects the so-called installation and warns any attempt to undermine sovereignty will face the full might of the law.
- Traditional leaders condemn the alleged coronation in kuGompo as unlawful, saying it disrespects King Sandile and risks causing tension in communities.
Eastern Cape Cogta MEC Zolile Williams has reacted with shock to reports of a Nigerian king being installed inside the Rharhabe Kingdom.
Williams says the department and the House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders do not support the move.
“We distance the department and the House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders from the so-called installation of a king by foreign nationals,” said Williams.
He warned that the matter is serious and could threaten the country.
“Any nefarious attempt to defy and undermine the sovereignty of our country will be met with the full might of the rule of law,” he said.
Williams also called on the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and law enforcement agencies to act immediately.
The incident is linked to an event in kuGompo, which falls under the amaRharhabe Kingdom led by King Sandile.
Nkosi Mpumalanga Gwadiso, chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, strongly condemned the reports.
He described the situation as unacceptable.
He expressed “profound indignation and unequivocal condemnation” over the alleged coronation of a so-called king linked to a Nigerian community event.
Gwadiso said the move breaks customary rules and ignores South African law.
He said the recognition of traditional leaders is controlled by strict legal processes under the Traditional and Khoi San Leadership Act.
“The unilateral and unlawful installation of an individual purporting to be a ‘king’ within the jurisdiction of a recognised monarchy is not only irregular but also deeply disrespectful,” said Gwadiso.
He warned that such actions could create division.
“The House is particularly concerned that this reckless conduct carries the potential to inflame tensions and jeopardise social cohesion,” he said.
The House has called for a public apology and for the so-called kingship to be scrapped.
It also wants police to investigate and take legal action.
Gwadiso said traditional leaders remain committed to peace and respect among all communities.
Pictured above: Eastern Cape Cogta MEC Zolile Williams at the opening of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders on Thursday.
Image source: Eastern Cape Office of the Premier
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