KINROSS – Chief Musa Mahlangu has distanced himself from allegations that he encouraged locals to invade land.
He said those who alleged these things misinterpreted him and did not attend the meeting that he had with the community.
Chief Mahlangu recently held a meeting with the community during which various issues were discussed, such as crime, protests and a lack of housing and stands.
He advised locals to formalise their requests and to register the names of those who really need stands, so that when Govan Mbeki Municipality releases land, they can apply.
“I am a responsible leader and would not encourage people to break the law.
“People attend meetings so they can understand what is happening in the community and not to spread lies.
“It is true that people do not have land, but we cannot take land illegally, and must engage with the municipality.”
Locals invaded land on Tuesday, 11 September near the R29 road between Kinross and Leandra.
They vowed not to vacate the land unless the municipality gave them land to live on.
Municipal officials, including Adv Ginindza, addressed the invaders and said they were in contempt of a court order that was granted in 2014 by the High Court.
The invaders asked him to read the court order, but he turned them down.
The land invaders said they did not want to fight, they only needed a place to stay.
They also complained about politicians who are neglecting them and only meeting with them during elections.
Some alleged that local traditional leaders were involved and were aware of the plan to invade the land.
Residents had an argument and then continued to invade the land in the presence of the police, municipal law enforcers and officials.
A case of land invasion was opened at Kinross Police Station.
https://www.facebook.com/echoridgenewspapers/videos/2162962373973589/
Also read:
https://www.citizen.co.za/ridge-times/124129/people-invade-land-kinross-video/
