Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Johann Steenkamp and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL. See attached pictures here, here, here and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is taking decisive action to restore the rule of law and protect Tokologo residents’ rights. This week, the DA will lay formal charges against the accounting officers of the ANC-governed Tokologo Municipality for their flagrant contempt of court and gross dereliction of duty.
We demand the immediate enforcement of the High Court order to remove all illegal structures and relocate the current unlawful occupiers in Seretsi Extension 1, Boshof, as mandated since June 2024, to a suitable location according to the PIE Act of 1998, which states, “The municipality cannot forcefully remove people, demolish structures or cut essential services without providing alternative relocation land or housing.
Despite a clear court order, the Tokologo Municipality has wilfully ignored its legal obligations for over two years, allowing illegal land invasions to proliferate unchecked. This inaction is not only a direct violation of the court’s authority but also a wasteful expenditure; thousands of rands in legal fees have been squandered, creating the expectation that illegal occupation will be tolerated and negatively impacting local farmers and businesses.
The ANC’s cadre deployment and political manipulation have left these residents without basic services: no water, electricity, or sanitation, while illegal shacks multiply and public trust erodes. The municipality’s neglect of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) and its refusal to be transparent about rezoning or title deeds further betray the people of Tokologo.
The DA will not allow the ANC to exploit this crisis for electoral gain or to evade accountability. We are escalating this matter to the Provincial Legislature and Parliament, demanding a full investigation and the repayment of misappropriated funds.
The DA’s action plan is clear: enforce the court order, hold those responsible to account, and restore dignity, safety, and lawful governance in Tokologo. These residents deserve dignified housing and relocation according to SPLUMA. We will not rest until justice is served and the rule of law prevails.