Confusion in Lesseyton as Municipality Denies Planned House Demolitions

The Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality has denied allegations that it plans to demolish houses in Lesseyton, despite claims by mayor Madoda Papiyana that such action would be taken.

The controversy began when Papiyana told residents in a meeting in December that houses in Lesseyton would be demolished.

However, the municipality issued a statement denying any plans to do so, citing an internal investigation into the matter.

The conflicting statements have left residents of Lesseyton uncertain about their future.

The differing versions presented by political leaders and municipal officials have raised questions among residents, who say they are waiting for clarity on the matter.

In a statement on Tuesday, municipal spokesperson Sandiso Gcobo said the municipality had not applied for or obtained a demolition order for the area.

“We categorically state that we have not applied for, nor obtained, a demolition order for Lesseyton,” Gcobo said. “The municipality distances itself from the actions of alleged employees who caused such mayhem.”

UDM councillor Mthuthuzeli Hokolo disputed the municipality’s statement, claiming that Papiyana had indeed informed councillors of plans to demolish the area.

Hokolo said the municipality’s statement contradicts what councillors were told during meetings.

He said: “We were told that the area would be demolished, and now they’re saying it’s not true.”

Hokolo said since last year when houses were demolished at Ezibeleni and Aloe T, they questioned the municipality’s actions and were told that court orders existed for those demolitions.

“Lesseyton houses were part of the houses that were going to be demolished,” he said.

On Tuesday, during a submission meeting of councillors with the administration of the Chris Hani District Municipality, Hokolo said Papiyana informed councillors that parts of Lesseyton would be affected by demolition, while other sections would remain and be required to pay for municipal services.

Hokolo said councillors left that meeting believing demolition would proceed, but later learned that this was no longer the case.

He said councillors had not been provided with copies of any court orders relating to Lesseyton.

He said the municipality followed similar procedures during previous demolitions at Ezibeleni.

Hokolo said the mayor should provide reasons for why the situation in Lesseyton has changed.

Municipal communication manager Lonwabo Kowa said the statement was issued following unsanctioned actions by officials who used municipal resources to give false information to residents.

“The Municipality has not received a court interdict on this matter. The interdict would be pointless as there is no intention to apply for a demolition of Lesseyton houses. The Ward Councillor Ntomboxolo Solani has also had engagements with communities and dispelled the false information,” he said.

He said Papiyana always ensures compliance with legislation and regularly warns communities against land invasions.

“He did not instruct the implicated junior officials to demolish any houses. The Council and management have never taken such a decision,” he said.

As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain: the residents of Lesseyton deserve answers. This is a developing story.