MEDIA RELEASE
22 November 2023
n a significant legal triumph, the Makhanda High Court has successfully halted the unlawful land invasions within the jurisdiction of the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality.
The Municipality took decisive action by approaching the courts in response to statements made by individuals associated with the Komani Protest Action, including its leader, Mr. Mncedisi Mbengo. These statements openly encouraged communities to engage in the illicit occupation of municipal land, resulting in invasions in Molteno, Ezibeleni, Whittlesea, and Birch Farm in Komani.
Prior to resorting to legal measures, EMLM diligently organised and conducted meetings with the affected communities. The aim was to apprise them of the severe consequences associated with erecting structures on land not rightfully obtained from the legitimate owners. Despite these engagement efforts, illegal land sales and invasions persisted.
The Court further issued an interdict against the Komani Protest Action and Mr. Mbengo, restraining them from engaging in illegal activities during gatherings, making threats, intimidating municipal staff, and disrupting or interfering with municipal business.
Taking a proactive stance, the Municipality has undertaken the responsibility to prevent any unauthorised land occupation. This initiative seeks to safeguard the interests of rightful landowners and protect communities from fraudulent practices, ensuring they do not build on unsafe or unsurveyed land. Such preventative measures aim to mitigate potential disasters and the destruction of homes in the future.
The court interdict, effective immediately, includes an order for the defendant to cover the associated costs.
To address the housing backlog, the Municipality has started the process of selling available sites and an advert inviting interested parties to apply was placed on the local newspaper and applications are currently being processed.
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For more information
Lonwabo Kowa
Manager – Communications