Title deeds battle with City of Ekurhuleni leads to intimidation – tenants cry
Residents say they have called the complex home for years, holding onto the hope that the City would eventually fulfill its promises of handing over title deeds.
Tenants from Delville and Pharoah Park say they are living in fear under the watch of heavily armed private security guards deployed by the City of Ekurhuleni.
Their anger has reached boiling point as they continue to fight for long-promised home ownership.
On March 27, residents protested outside the council chambers at the OR Tambo Precinct during the mayor’s State of the City Address, demanding answers.
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“We don’t understand what is happening. We were not consulted about this new security company that’s harassing us,” said tenant Lebo Nkosi.
Residents claim the city initially promised ownership of the units, which were reportedly donated with the understanding that title deeds would follow in time.
Instead, tenants say they have only been issued leases, which prevent them from applying for government housing.
“The system says we own homes, but all we have are leases,” said one resident. “We’ve been misled for years.”
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When Germiston City News visited one of the affected complexes, tenants described a hostile environment.
Guards patrolled with heavy weapons, and several residents reported being intimidated for speaking out.
Gatherings were reportedly banned without reason.
“This isn’t security. It’s suppression,” said a tenant. “We are not criminals. We just want peace and what’s rightfully ours.”
The security firm allegedly began operating six weeks ago. Since then, residents have reported night raids, damaged doors, and broken electricity infrastructure.
“Our children are terrified. This is not how we should live,” another resident said.
Tenants say attempts to reach city officials have been ignored. A formal request for comment was sent to the city, but no response was received by the time of publication.
Despite the ongoing fear, residents remain resolute.
“We won’t be intimidated. We’ve earned these homes and the city must honour its promises,” said a group representative.
