The Advertiser received a response from the Department of Human Settlements regarding the protest that took place on Rondebult Road in Comet on March 3.
According to one of the protesters, who wished to remain anonymous, the community protested because they wanted the MMC for human settlements, Lesiba Mpya, to address them.
“The MMC promised us title deeds to our houses about a year ago and we still haven’t received anything. Now, we heard about a housing development project and we’re afraid we’re going to lose our houses if we don’t get title deeds,” he said.
Nhlanhla Cebekhulu, the metro’s divisional head of communications and media relations, said Mpya never promised anyone title deeds.
“The MCC cannot legally make such a decision; however, he promised the process of subsidy administration will take place and the result will lead to property ownership. The City will not be able to assist anyone to get title deeds for a property not legally owned by them,” Cebekhulu said.
Cebekhulu highlighted continuous engagement with the affected community is taking place to ensure all have a common understanding of the project.
Meanwhile, Boksburg SAPS spokesperson Sgt Ntsako Ledwaba confirmed that six of the protesters were arrested for public violence.
Also Read: Protesters block Rondebult Road in Comet
Also Read: About 17 Rondebult Road protesters arrested
