Ekurhuleni’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Kgopelo Hollo, has called for swift action from law enforcement following the arson attack on the Germiston Home Affairs office during the eviction of defaulting tenants from the Pharoe Park flats.
Hollo described the burning of the government building as a “criminal act” that cannot be justified, regardless of community grievances. “They have no right to destroy buildings meant to serve the public,” he said during an interview.
Background: Long-Standing Issue with Defaulting Tenants
The evictions stem from years of non-payment by tenants occupying city-owned rental units. Hollo revealed that out of 440 units in Pharoe Park, only 57 tenants were compliant with their rental agreements, while 383 had defaulted.
“The city has faced revenue shortfalls for years because tenants who signed agreements simply stopped paying,” Hollo explained. Despite repeated engagements, including notices and service disconnections, many tenants refused to comply.
Court-Ordered Evictions Spark Backlash
After failed negotiations, the city obtained an eviction order on June 26, which was executed earlier today. However, the operation was met with violent resistance, culminating in the torching of the nearby Home Affairs office.
Hollo emphasized that all legal processes were followed, with tenants represented in court. He dismissed claims of unfair treatment, stating that unemployed tenants were assisted in applying for RDP houses, while those with stable incomes had no valid excuse for non-payment.
Alternative Accommodation and Syndicate Concerns
The MMC confirmed that alternative housing had been arranged for qualifying evictees. However, he raised concerns about a possible rental syndicate illegally collecting payments from tenants without the city’s knowledge.
Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza had earlier warned of “lawlessness and non-compliance,” hinting at broader criminal activity in the area, including hijacked private buildings.
Home Affairs Offered Temporary Relocation
Following the destruction of its Germiston office, Home Affairs has been offered an alternative municipal building for immediate use.
As investigations continue, Hollo urged authorities to arrest those responsible for the arson, reaffirming the city’s commitment to enforcing rental agreements while assisting legitimate cases.
