Man burnt to death

A man who has been waiting for more than 18 years for an RDP house, burnt to death in his home in Mashishing.

Mr Jacob Makelane, one of the first residents of Crossroad extension, was apparently alone in the house when it caught fire on Saturday night.

According to his son, Victor, Makelane’s wife, Magdelene and other children went to Dullstroom when the tragedy occurred.

“My father was sleeping when the house caught fire. Neighbours heard him scream for help, but the gates were locked and they couldn’t get inside. By the time Thaba Chweu’s disaster management eventually showed up, it was too late.”

Makelane has been waiting for an RDP house since 1995. According to a family friend, ms Madira Mothlala, he has been to TCM’s housing division every year since then. “He again went last year October to no avail.”

Maklane erected his five room house himself.

The foundation for the RDP house was laid numerous years ago, but none came of the promised house.

His brother stays on the same stand, also without a RDP house, even though a foundation was also laid for the erection of a house.

“My father built this house himself. He raised us here and now he has died without a proper home,” Victor said.

Motlala said despite the fact that the entire house burnt down on Saturday, TCM’s disaster management has made no effort to accommodate the family.

“They haven’t supplied the family with a temporary structure like a tent. The rubble from the fire has not even been removed yet.”

Despite being one of the first residents in Crossroad since 1976, he was desperately waiting year after year for the promise of an RDP house.

His self-build house and that of his brother was the only stands yet to be awarded with a permanent structure.
“Magdelene is heartbroken. She is not even talking,” says Motlala

When Steelburger/Lydenburg News arrived on the scene the destruction the fire caused became eminent. The family lost all of their belongings in the fire. Not a single appliance or furniture piece was spared.

“Does someone first have to die before TCM sees to the people of this town?” an upset Motlala asked.
By the time of going to print, funeral arrangements have not been made.

Victor Makelane at the remains of what used to be their five room house. His father, Jacob Makelane burnt to death on Saturday morning.