Primrose and Elsburg cemeteries in disrepair as vandalism sparks public outcry
Grieving families are raising alarms over the deteriorating state of Ekurhuleni cemeteries, including Primrose and Elsburg.
Tensions continue to rise in the CoE amid ongoing vandalism at cemeteries and graveyards.
In a recent email, Suzetta Fick shared her devastation after visiting her father’s grave at the Primrose Cemetery.
She wrote that on Father’s Day, she and her family visited the Primrose Cemetery to honour and remember their late father. What was meant to be a quiet moment of reflection turned into a distressing experience.
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“The cemetery is in a heartbreaking state,” said Fick. “Overgrown grass, broken pathways and general neglect make it hard to even reach our loved one’s grave. The dignity and peace one hopes to find in a place like this are completely absent.
“We left feeling hurt and disrespected, not only for our father, but for all the families who trusted this cemetery as the final resting place for their loved ones.”
Fick emphasised, “This is more than a public space; it holds memories, grief and deep emotion. The current state of the Primrose Cemetery is not only unacceptable but also deeply painful to witness.
“We urge you to prioritise the care and upkeep of the cemetery. Our loved ones deserve to rest with dignity, and grieving families deserve the comfort of knowing they are honoured.”
André van Staden echoed Fick’s concerns, voicing his disappointment over the neglected state of the Elsburg Cemetery, now the final resting place of anti-apartheid activist Chris Hani.
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Van Staden visited the Wall of Remembrance at the cemetery and was shocked to find a relative’s pot of ashes missing. He recalled that a family member who came to pay respects and lay flowers discovered their section had been broken into and the ashes stolen.
Van Staden reported that more urns had been stolen, and additional acts of vandalism had occurred in recent months.
“When I took my wife to visit, it was a jaw-dropping moment. I couldn’t believe someone would show such disrespect to a loved one’s ashes.
“We used to visit regularly and leave fresh flowers, but now it’s shocking. The city must provide proper security at the cemetery,” said Van Staden.
