Chaos broke out yesterday when former residents of Hlobani Farm protested outside Mbuyelo Coal mine, accusing the company of denying them access to ancestral graves for traditional rituals.
The disgruntled community marched to the mining company’s premises, demanding answers after repeated attempts to visit the graves—located inside the mine’s property—were allegedly blocked. A mine representative reportedly told protesters that no management officials were available to receive their memorandum of grievances.
“We Need to Bury Our Loved Ones in Peace”
Frustrated residents expressed outrage over the restrictions, claiming they were forced to make appointments just to visit their ancestors’ burial sites.
“Once the mine came here, people could no longer access the graveyard. You cannot have an appointment to see your relatives,” one protester said.
Tempers flared as community members attempted to force their way into the graveyard but were stopped by security. Eventually, they were permitted limited entry—without professional cameras—and had to use cellphones to document the graves.
Elderly Residents Displaced, Houses Demolished
Elderly former farm residents, some of whom were born on the land, shared heartbreaking accounts of displacement.
“I was born here at Hlobani in 1955. My forefathers were buried here, but the mine is refusing us access. All my royal family is here, yet the gates are locked,” said one pensioner.
Others claimed the mine demolished their homes and forced them into rental rooms in nearby townships.
72-Hour Ultimatum Issued
The community has given Mbuyelo Coal 72 hours to respond to their demands, threatening to shut down operations if their grievances are ignored.
A mine representative apologized and promised feedback, stating, “I need to consult with my team.”
As tensions simmer, the community vows to escalate their protest unless the mine grants them unrestricted access to their ancestral graves.
