Two sides to Vrygrond story

THE Vrygrond Community Development Forum (VCDF) has slammed the City for “provoking residents from the Xakabantu informal settlement to protest”, causing panic in the city on Wednesday night.

VCDF secretary Nonkosi Fodo said the community had not planned to protest or loot the Capricorn Centre, but felt cornered after City officials came into the area in the morning and tore down community structures with no warning.

“What happened was the result of the City’s blatant disregard for the residents in Xakabantu.

“People were furious at why law enforcement would come into the area during such times, not to assist the community, but to tear down structures built for their betterment.”

However, the City disputed the claims, saying officials did not tear down any community project structures, only newly built shacks, as per full compliance with a court order.

Fodo added that City officials also tore down a food garden and recycling plant project that were started to uplift and empower young women in the community, prodding the frustrated residents into staging a demonstration.

But the City said no projects were affected by their actions.

“As a forum, we have always appealed for things to be done the right way, but I think after years of being sidelined and ignored when it comes to getting access to basic service delivery the community’s frustration boiled over last night,” said Fodo.

“We have engaged and petitioned for the City to assist this community since 2016. They don’t have water, electricity or even enough toilets, but nothing has come of it.”

Mayco member for Human Settlements, Malusi Booi, said that while there were many uncertainties, the City had to uphold the rule of law in the country.

“We can see that we must all hold on to the rule of law in South Africa, and unlawful actions cannot be normalised. We will continue to act to prevent the unlawful occupation of land.”

In efforts to keep the area under control and clear of any unrest, the City’s Safety and Security department said it would continue to monitor the area to avoid any flare-ups.