The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) expressed worries about the Gauteng provincial administration’s plans to conduct mass evictions and to demolish informal settlements throughout the province. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has attempted to alleviate these concerns by providing reassurances to the SAHRC.
Lesufi emphasised on Sunday that his administration’s approach would in no way violate people’s rights; he stressed that the purpose of the plan was to restore order and provide alternative housing solutions.
Lesufi stated, “There is nothing for the Human Rights Commission to be concerned about.” “We do not act without thought. “Our objective is to construct communities in which services can be provided in a secure and efficient manner, rather than to deprive people of their dignity.”
He made his remarks subsequent to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) issuing a warning against what it termed as “dangerous rhetoric” surrounding mass evictions. The commission expressed concern that the statements made by Lesufi could potentially incite fear and anxiety among groups who are already in a vulnerable position.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) issued a warning stating that the language employed by the Premier may be construed as intimidation. We strongly urge the provincial government to ensure that its development aspirations are balanced by constitutional protections for the poor and the landless.
Over the past several weeks, Lesufi has expressed dissatisfaction multiple times with the rapid expansion of informal settlements in Gauteng, especially in sections of land that are designated for development or that are located beside environmentally sensitive regions, such as riverbanks and wetlands. He makes the argument that these kind of uncontrolled communities make it challenging for the state to supply electricity, water, roads, and police services.
The Premier underlined that his government would act within the confines of the law and would provide options for families that would be impacted by the relocation, despite the fact that the Premier was steadfast in his conviction that the relocation was necessary. “We are not going to abandon anyone out on the streets. “We will locate appropriate land, construct temporary structures, and gradually relocate communities into decent housing,” he stated.
The possibility that forceful evictions may exacerbate poverty and social exclusion continues to be a concern for housing rights organisations, who remain unconvinced. Prior to the implementation of any relocation, activist organisations have demanded that serious engagement take place with the residents who will be impacted.
The rapidly growing population of Gauteng, which is the result of migration from other provinces and adjacent countries, has put an extreme burden on the delivery of housing; this is according to urban planning specialists. Over 1.2 million individuals are waiting on Gauteng’s housing list.
Lesufi continues to assert that turning a blind eye to the issue would be a dereliction of duty, notwithstanding the negative reaction to his stance. “We will not have a province to govern tomorrow if we allow lawlessness to flourish under the guise of compassion,” he stated.
The South African Human Rights Commission has requested that an official meeting be arranged with the office of the premier in order to obtain clarification regarding the schedule, legal procedures, and protections associated with the eviction plan.
