Mandela Park Vandals Must Feel the Full Force of the Law

It was distressing to learn over the weekend of the petrol-bombing and vandalism of 49 out of 53 newly built houses in Mandela Park, Khayelitsha. One of the houses was burnt down. The total damage done to the houses is estimated at 1 million rand.

I am pleased to report that 29 arrests have been made in connection with this wanton destruction of public property. Today, the Department of Local Government and Housing will lay formal charges with the police against those who perpetrated these crimes. They must face the full force of the law. We will not tolerate those who stand in the way of development for their own selfish ends.

If it is found that those who vandalized the property in Mandela Park are in line for a house on this project or any other, we will ensure that their names are taken off the beneficiary list. This government will not reward anarchy and lawlessness.

These events are most unfortunate. In a number of meetings with Mandela Park backyarders I have expressed sympathy with their plight and given notice of my intention to do all I can to ensure that they receive decent accommodation. In fact, the Department of Local Government and Housing is currently engaging with the Mandela Park steering committee to see how backyarders can be accommodated in future projects.

I hope that we can continue these discussions in good faith. But we will not negotiate with those who threaten us or who destroy public property in pursuit of their aims.

Media statement by:
MEC Bonginkosi Madikizela
Provincial Minister of Housing