Royal Princesses Condemn Governance Failure and Drug Crisis in SA Communities

Royal Princesses Speak Out Against Collapse of Justice and Leadership in South Africa

The South African Royal Princesses Network (SARPN) has issued a scathing statement condemning what it calls a “governance crisis” that is devastating rural and urban communities across South Africa. Representing over 120 royal princesses from all nine provinces, the network accuses political leadership of enabling corruption, ignoring drug-related crimes, and undermining traditional systems of justice.

In a public declaration led by Deputy Chairperson Princess Nomfundo Zibi, SARPN voices solidarity with the Sisulu Foundation and calls attention to the everyday reality in townships and villages — where children are addicted to drugs, police fail to act, and elders are left helpless.

“Our Communities Are Collapsing” – Royal Voices from the Ground

The statement highlights the surge in drug abuse, especially among young people with no access to jobs or hope. “Drugs — including crystal meth — are now destroying families and our traditional way of life,” the network writes.

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The princesses describe how community members no longer trust the justice system, citing disappearing police dockets, closed cases with no explanation, and known drug dealers operating with impunity.

“They laugh at us because they know nothing will happen to them,” the statement reads, accusing the system of being not just incompetent but corrupt.

Collapse of Traditional Values and UBUNTU

SARPN says the erosion of traditional values and cultural respect has been worsened by the state’s failure to protect leaders who serve. “Our elders are crying not just for their grandchildren lost to drugs — but for us, their daughters and granddaughters who serve as traditional leaders and who are no longer safe.”

They lament the effects of the unresolved Phala Phala scandal, warning that when leaders appear above the law, “young people stop believing anything will ever change.”

A Broken Response from the Presidency

The royal leaders also condemn the government’s typical “playbook” — suspending ministers and launching commissions — while communities suffer. They express frustration that while drug dealers are tipped off about raids, communities are told there’s “no transport or resources” for real investigations.

“We refuse to stand by while our communities are destroyed by a system that protects criminals and abandons the innocent,” SARPN says.

Call to Action: Defending Communities Despite Danger

In their closing remarks, the Royal Princesses reaffirm their commitment to service and resilience. Despite facing growing personal threats, they vow to fight for justice, land rights, and the protection of youth.

“Our young people deserve better. And those of us who still believe in service above self must continue fighting for it, even when those at the top have given up.”