Gatvol residents demand houses
Residents demand houses claiming that 'their' houses are being given to the wrong people.
SHARPEVILLE.- There was no shortage of drama on Human Rights Day as a group of fed-up residents held a protest outside the Sharpeville Monument.
The protesters, mostly women and children, carried placards demanding houses from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Although the message was meant for the premier, he was not there.
He was represented instead by Matome Chiloane.
Other political parties, including Ace Magashule’s ACT, joined the crowd in solidarity.
Most of the residents travelled from Tshepiso in Sharpeville.
Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, they claimed they have been waiting for progress for 30 years. Some residents said they applied for homes back in 1996 and 1998, but have received nothing but empty promises.
Their placards sent a clear message: “Panyaza, we need your attention,” and “No home, No peace.”
The residents allege that while they wait, RDP houses are being given to the wrong people.
“We applied for RDP houses like everyone, but the wrong people were given houses. Most of the people who stay in those RDP houses are friends, relatives, and boyfriends and girlfriends of those in power. That is why they turned those RDP houses into big houses and mansions.”
The group expressed deep disappointment that the premier was not present to hear them personally.
“We are tired of waiting. We won’t stop to fight for our rights until they get our attention,” said the gatvol residents.
