VIDEO: AbaQulusi mayor takes swift action against Vryheid land invasion
Mayor Sibiya points out that some of the properties are being occupied by those who are farming in the area without paying rental on the land and most of the farms are operating with expired leases which have not been renewed since 2015.
“WE have to protect the interest of the community and protect the interest of the land in AbaQulusi at large, not only the surrounding towns because we need this land for development. We need income so that we can sustain our infrastructure in town and on the outskirts.”
These are the words of AbaQulusi Mayor, Cllr Jerry Sibiya, who visited the site of a possible land invasion on May 10, accompanied by Stefan Landman, the newly appointed Director of Strategic Planning and Development.
Mayor Sibiya discussed the situation with Mr Landman and it was decided that the illegal occupants of Plot 6 on the old Babanango road would be served with eviction notices the following day, allowing them thirty days to vacate the property.
“The municipality must take responsibility of all the properties that belong to the municipality,” said the mayor. “And make sure that they auction them so that they can collect income on the rental of all these properties…”
You might also want to read: AbaQulusi municipality to tackle wasteful expenditure
Mayor Sibiya points out that some of the properties are being occupied by those who are farming in the area without paying rental on the land and most of the farms are operating with expired leases which have not been renewed since 2015.
“One thing we have observed is that there are some of the loyal farmers who are occupying who continue to pay yet they haven’t got any lease agreement with the municipality…”
Check out this link: Mayor falls victim to stock theft
Mayor Sibiya expressed his concern that there may be criminals among the illegal occupants, given the recent spike in criminal activity in the area.
“We don’t agree with land invasion,” stated Mayor Sibiya firmly. “We do not support land invasion…”
“The process of advertising and granting new leases on these properties, in accordance with Abaqulusi supply chain policies is a priority, and should be finalised in the near future,” adds Mr Landman.
Also read: Municipal Manager and Dept. of Public Works keep Vryheid land invasion at bay
