Close working relations key to resolving dispute
The select committee on Petitions and Executive Undertakings concluded an inspection in loco in the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality in relation to a petition by villagers alleging illegal eviction by the municipality.
Following the inspection and interaction with all role-players, the committee is of the view that the key to resolving this dispute lies in the application of cooperative governance principles between the municipality and traditional leadership as set out by Chapter 12 of the Constitution and other enabling legislation.
The committee remains acutely aware of the critical role of traditional leadership institutions in South Africa’s constitutional democracy and in communities, particularly in relation to the rural-development strategy. This role is even more important for the attainment of the National Development Plan’s key target relating to broadening social cohesion and unity while addressing the inequalities of the past.
It is for this reason that the Committee has urged both municipal and traditional leaders to develop a relationship based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Meanwhile, the Committee is concerned about the living conditions, past and present, of the evicted community. “We are concerned that in evicting the community from the contested site the municipality did not find suitable alternative accommodation leading to inhumane sharing of small hall by many families.
The breaking up of families by designating halls based on gender is also a concern. Even the sites that some of the families have been relocated to lack basic services such as water and sanitation,” said Kgoši Setlamorago Thobejane, the Chairperson of the Committee.
The municipality was called upon to redouble its efforts to ensure that basic services reach all residents. Despite this, the committee cautions citizens against illegal occupation of land as this hampers planning and development.
The committee, having heard both sides of the dispute as well as being empowered by the firsthand information gathered on site, will now consider the petition. “We believe that this inspection in loco has empowered us to consider the petition by the community of Bokamoso from an informed position which will enable the committee to make sound recommendations to Parliament for adoption and implementation,” Kgoši Thobejane emphasised.
Following deliberations by the committee a comprehensive report will be table in the National Council of Provinces for consideration and adoption.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Malatswa Evans Molepo
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 081 512 7920
E-mail: mmolepo@parliament.gov.za
