By OBAKENG MAJE
20 May 2026 – The Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA) calls for swift and decisive action to address the ongoing disrespect toward the traditional institutions and the people. This comes after allegations that Somalians inaugurated their own king in Sandton.
CONTRALESA secretary in Gauteng, Prince Mongezi Tom said it is an insult to the customs, sovereignty and authority of the traditional leadership of this country and this province that foreign nationals, including Somalians, are now being crowned here on South African soil. Tom said they are not in support of this practice.
“We view it as a direct affront and a disregard for the sovereignty of our traditional structures and the dignity of our people. If this situation is not arrested by the Premier and the leadership of CONTRALESA, we risk our people taking matters into their own hands.
“We cannot allow foreign nationals to come into our country and act as it pleases them, without regard for our laws, customs, and traditional order. CONTRALESA stands ready to engage with the Premier and relevant authorities at the earliest convenience to resolve this matter and restore order in line with the will of our people,” he said.
The Guardian 