Dozens of tenants living in flats in Msobomvu, Butterworth, have been forcibly evicted by the Mnquma Local Municipality. The flats, originally owned by the former Transkei government, are now being reclaimed by the municipality, which says it intends to renovate the properties and rent them out for income.
However, the evicted residents claim they were not consulted about the move and were given no alternative accommodation. Many now face homelessness, with some accusing the municipality of acting unfairly.
Municipal officials defended the decision, stating that the renovations are necessary to improve the buildings and generate much-needed revenue. “The properties are in a state of disrepair, and refurbishing them will allow us to offer better housing while also boosting municipal funds,” said a spokesperson.
But affected tenants argue that the sudden eviction has left them stranded. “We were not informed properly, and now we have nowhere to go,” said one resident. “The municipality is treating us as if we don’t matter.”
With no immediate housing solutions provided, community organizations are calling for intervention to assist the displaced families. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between local governments and residents over housing rights and urban development policies.
The Mnquma Municipality has yet to announce any plans to assist the evicted tenants, leaving many uncertain about their future.
