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An Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) statement released on Monday, 30 March 2026 addresses ongoing unrest in Ku-Gompo, Eastern Cape.
The party says the protests follow a disputed and self-declared coronation of an individual as “King of the Igbo Nation” in the area.
What happened
The EFF says tensions in Ku-Gompo, formerly East London, escalated after a person allegedly declared themselves a king without following South Africa’s legal processes.
According to the statement, this triggered public anger and protests, with reports of violence and property damage in the area.
Official response
The EFF reaffirmed that the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) is responsible for determining and legitimising traditional leaders.
It stated that:
- The COGTA Minister must recommend recognition
- The President must approve it under the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019
- Recognition is only official once published in the Government Gazette
The party condemned the alleged coronation, calling it unlawful and offensive.
It also called on authorities to arrest those responsible for violence and damage to infrastructure.
Impact
The statement links the unrest to confusion over traditional leadership processes and a lack of clear communication from authorities.
The EFF says civilians have been harmed and infrastructure damaged during the protests.
It also warned media to report responsibly and not present unverified coronations as legitimate.
What happens next
The EFF says its structures in the Buffalo City Metro have been instructed to monitor the situation and assist affected residents.
It has called for calm while urging government and traditional leaders to clearly communicate the legal process for recognising kings and queens.
