Mthatha on Edge as KSD Mayor Warns Over Illegal Protests and Road Blockades

Tensions remain high in Mthatha after the Executive Mayor of King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality issued a strong warning to motorists and residents following illegal protests that disrupted major routes on Monday morning.

In a statement released on 2 March 2026, Executive Mayor Cllr Nyaniso Nelani said the protests were not authorised and involved the burning of tyres on public roads, as well as damage to municipal infrastructure.

Roads Blocked, Then Reopened

According to the municipality, several key access routes to the Mthatha CBD were blocked by protesters using burning tyres and rubble. These included:

• N2 Ultra City

• R61 Mthatha East (next to Zingisa)

• Tutor Ndabase Intersection (Kwezi & Ngangelizwe)

• Tembu Road, Ngangelizwe

• Bernard Schultz Drive (CTM)

• N2 Northcrest

While most of the affected roads have since been reopened, the R61 Mthatha West and Bypass Road remains blocked. Motorists have been urged to avoid the area, expect delays, and follow instructions from traffic officers and emergency personnel.

The municipality has advised residents to use alternative routes and allow additional travel time.

Flood Victims and Electricity Restoration at Centre of Protest

The Executive Mayor noted that two primary issues were raised by communities.

The first concerns flood-affected families who are demanding permanent housing solutions. The second relates to residents in Ngangelizwe who are calling for the restoration of electricity following storm damage that occurred a few weeks ago.

Mayor Nelani stated that a contractor has already been appointed to repair fallen electricity poles and restore supply in the affected areas.

He further indicated that prior to the protest action, he had engaged with residents in Ngangelizwe. The National Department of Housing has also reportedly intervened and assessed flood victims who remain sheltered at Northcrest Hall. Further interventions are expected.

Law Enforcement Activated

The municipality confirmed that SAPS Public Order Policing (POPS) has been activated and deployed on site to maintain public order.

While expressing sympathy for affected residents, the municipality strongly condemned illegal road blockades and violent protest tactics.

“These actions will not be tolerated as they undermine municipal services and put lives at risk,” the statement read.

The Mayor appealed to community leaders and organisers to cease burning tyres and damaging municipal property. Protesters were urged to engage the municipality through lawful and authorised channels.

Possible Arrests and Liability for Damages

The municipality warned that law enforcement will take appropriate action against individuals involved in criminal acts, including arrests where warranted.

It also cautioned that those responsible for damaging municipal infrastructure may be held liable for repair costs.

The Office of the Executive Mayor reiterated its commitment to addressing housing needs and restoring electricity infrastructure where damage has occurred.

Residents are encouraged to remain calm and stay updated through official municipal communication channels.