Community forum in Tembisa raises awareness on eviction
Thembisa Community Forum is working to assist residents who are forcibly evicted to reclaim their homes.
Thembisa Community Forum held an eviction awareness event on October 26 at Rabsotho Hall on Andrew Mapheto Drive to raise awareness about eviction in communities.
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TCF’s spokesperson Xolani Mnisi says while there is limited protection available for occupants to avoid eviction, such protection does not always prevent eviction.
This is why the forum has felt the need to educate the community about eviction.
“Evictions occur frequently in our community and the regrettable truth is that many City of Ekurhuleni officials evicts residents illegally and frequently in painful ways.
“Our economy is not stable and a lot of us depend on our little salaries to maintain us.
“The majority of residents in ekasi prioritise paying their rent and tariffs to ensure they have a roof over their heads.
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“In times of extreme financial stress, it’s not always possible or reasonable for some people to forgo a sizable portion of their income to pay rent.
While legislation helps landlords in their attempts to recoup unpaid rent and end leases, it also protects tenants from unjustified evictions.
Residents need to understand their rights while facing eviction.
“Therefore, it’s essential to share this information with the community to educate residents and acquaint them with the eviction process.
This is done to stop Thembisans from being evicted forcibly from their homes.
The legislation protects the rights of both owners and occupants. If residents are threatened with unjust eviction, they may also defend themselves.
“The constitution of South Africa guarantees the right to adequate housing.
“The government also needs to cease falling short in that area and put forth reasonable efforts to eventually provide everyone with a decent place to live, like the RDP houses,” said Mnisi.
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