This according to Human Rights Commission (HRC) representative Chantal Kroon, following a complaint lodged against the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) by ward councillor Wally Labuschagne on behalf of the Marievale residents last year.

Threats of a planned eviction process surfaced on November 25 during a lock-down of the premises that prevented residents’ freedom of movement. Shortly thereafter, residents not in possession of military identification documents were notified in writing that they were to vacate the premises before January 5. The evictions stood to be carried out under the guide of ad hoc Crime Prevention Operations by SANDF and other law enforcement agencies, but resulted in a public protest by the residents on December 10.

A memorandum of grievances and demands were handed over to Clr Labuschagne who in return, conveyed the contents thereof to HRC through a complaint.

In reply, Ms Kroon stated that the eviction of residents currently in occupation of residential dwellings at the army base cannot materialise without compliance to a legal process governing such evictions.

In response to enquiries by HRC, Col Witbooi (Commanding Officer of the Army Support Base in Johannesburg) indicated that the army has no intention to evict occupiers without following the appropriate legal route.

Since the threatened evictions have not yet materialised and given the army’s written commitment to abide by the legal prescripts, HRC proceeded to close its file on the matter, but stated it will continue to monitor developments at the military base.