The Freedom Front Plus in the JB Marks Municipality are voicing their concern regarding the North West Provincial Department of Public Works and Roads’ plan to auction 23 residential properties in Potchefstroom.

According to a public notice, the properties, located in Miederpark and Baillie Park, are to be sold specifically to “natural persons from previously disadvantaged groups who have never owned any piece of land.” The notice did not clarify whether the properties would be sold at fair marketrelated prices.

The Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus), represented by councillor Everhard Laing of the JB Marks Local Municipality, strongly opposes the auction, saying the process threatens economic growth and sustainable development.

“These properties are in middle- to upperincome areas and have significant revenue potential for the province.” “Selling them at below-market rates could undermine economic opportunities and the local tax base,” said Laing. “We will be monitoring this process closely and will act against any irregularities.”

The 23 properties are spread across Geelhout Avenue, Hakea Avenue, Kameeldoring Street, Walter Sisulu Avenue, Kiaat Street, Kiepersol Avenue, Palm Street, Suikerbos Avenue, and Baillie Park Ext 5.

In response to enquiries, JB Marks municipal spokesperson Jeanette Tshite clarified that the municipality did not list the properties for auction.

“The listing was undertaken by the North West Provincial Department of Public Works and Roads, which is the custodial authority responsible for these properties. Any further enquiries should be directed to them,” Tshite confirmed.

Residents and interested parties had 21 days from the publication of the notice on January 15 to submit written representations to the Department of Public Works and Roads.

The FF Plus warns that racially targeted processes for state assets could have lasting negative effects on Potchefstroom’s economy.