Did traditional leaders succeed in restoring law and order during the 2021 riots and looting in South Africa? insights from Indigenous scholars.

Abstract

With the institution of traditional leadership, which is led by traditional leaders, many Indigenous communities in rural democratic South Africa remain governed by customary laws. Amidst conflicts, eras of enslavement, starvation, liberation movements, political and economic upheaval, and colonial and apartheid systems, traditional leaders have provided leadership to the South African people. Customary laws are respected and followed by Indigenous peoples, who also place great value on the authority and position of traditional leaders. The 2021 looting and rioting by South Africa's Indigenous people in rural areas and townships tested the ability and authority of traditional leadership institutions to govern people in the democratic government. The intervention of traditional leadership institutions was necessary to stop additional harm to the economy, jobs, and infrastructure brought on by the riots and looting that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigates the strategies traditional leaders employed to reestablish law and order during the looting and rioting that occurred in July 2021 in response to the government of South Africa's efforts to stabilize the nation. The study uses qualitative document analysis and sourced data from government records, published scholarly works, policies, and newsletters on related topics. The study examines the underlying factors that led to the July riots and looting as well as the ability of conventional authorities to impose order. The study also discusses the position of traditional leaders today and the impact that the institution of traditional leadership will always have on Indigenous people.