Ekurhuleni evictions will go ahead, Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza confirmed, after Germiston protests turned violent and a Home Affairs building burned. Because many tenants at Pharoe Park refuse to pay rent or municipal charges, the city will carry out court orders. The mayor said firm action is necessary to protect housing projects and restore public order.
Non-payment Drives Eviction Orders
The Ekurhuleni Housing Company manages the Pharoe Park flats. Many residents have built up large arrears, which led the city to begin legal action. Officials met tenants several times to arrange payment plans. However, most residents rejected or ignored these offers. Therefore, Xhakaza argued, allowing non-payment would punish those who meet their obligations and undermine affordable housing stability.
Protests Over Ekurhuleni Evictions Escalate
Ekurhuleni evictions will move forward, Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza confirmed, following violent protests in Germiston and the burning of a Home Affairs building. The removals target tenants at Pharoe Park who refuse to pay rent or municipal charges. Xhakaza said the city must enforce court orders to protect public housing projects and maintain order in the community.
Non-payment Fuels the Ekurhuleni Eviction Drive
Many residents owe significant amounts in unpaid rent, which prompted the city to launch legal action. Officials met tenants several times to propose repayment plans. However, most ignored these opportunities. Consequently, Xhakaza argued, ongoing non-payment punishes law-abiding tenants and jeopardises the sustainability of affordable housing.
Protests Over Ekurhuleni Evictions Escalate into Violence
Protests against the Ekurhuleni evictions quickly grew tense, with road blockades and clashes involving law enforcement. The situation escalated further when a Home Affairs office in Germiston was set alight. As a result, Xhakaza condemned the violence, warning that such acts harm the community and promote lawlessness. He stressed that eviction disputes must be settled through legal processes, not destruction.
Law Enforcement to Ensure Ekurhuleni Evictions Run Smoothly
The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department will work alongside housing officials to carry out each eviction. This partnership, according to Xhakaza, will reduce disruptions and protect residents. Furthermore, the city plans to finalise all pending cases in line with court orders. By completing these removals efficiently, the municipality aims to safeguard public resources and ensure that compliant tenants receive fair treatment.
Mayor Stands Firm on the Future of Ekurhuleni Evictions
Reaffirming his stance, Xhakaza said the city had exhausted dialogue and must now act decisively.
“It’s about time leaders are firm… allowing these things to happen is what eventually contributes to lawlessness,” he said.
Ultimately, the city will continue Ekurhuleni evictions until all legal cases conclude. The mayor believes this approach will restore stability, reinforce the rule of law, and protect the integrity of public housing programmes.
