The Mnquma Local Municipality has raised concerns over residents allegedly taking advantage of government resources after 13 families were evicted from a community hall in Butterworth. The families, who had been living in the hall for a month, were initially displaced when a fire destroyed the Mola hostel they had been occupying illegally in July.
Temporary Shelter Turns into Eviction
Following the fire, the municipality provided temporary shelter in the community hall and promised to assist with alternative housing. However, officials later backtracked, citing a lack of funds for construction. The families were then ordered to vacate the hall, sparking outrage and accusations of neglect.
A municipal spokesperson clarified that the Mnquma Municipality does not build houses but only provides land, with housing construction falling under the Department of Human Settlements. He emphasized that the displaced residents had been informed from the beginning that their stay in the hall was temporary.
Allegations of Misusing Disaster Relief
He further claimed that some residents were attempting to exploit disaster relief funds meant for flood victims.
“We remain vigilant because we have a list of verified flood victims. Anyone not on that list does not qualify for assistance,” he stated.
Despite this, the municipality had provided the fire victims with humanitarian aid, including food, blankets, and clothing—resources originally allocated for flood relief.
Residents Left in Limbo
With no immediate housing solution, residents have been urged to return to their hometowns or seek rental accommodations. However, critics argue that this disrupts livelihoods and ignores the urgent need for temporary shelter.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is still investigating the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, the municipality maintains that it will not allow “unlawful benefit” from government aid meant for legitimate disaster victims.
As tensions rise, displaced families remain uncertain about their future, highlighting ongoing challenges in housing and disaster response in the Eastern Cape.
