Government held to ransom by landlords over plight of flood victims

The Provincial Government of KwaZulu-Natal notes with sadness the sudden change of mind by the owners of the property that government unveiled recently as a temporary emergency accommodation to house the displaced flood victims who were housed at Truro Hall.

Following weeks of negotiations and agreements that were reached, government commenced the process of cleaning the facility which is a former student residence that has been unoccupied for a long time. The facility was spruced up and made fit for human habitation.

This was followed by the final relocation and settling of flood victims in the facility who were from Truro Hall.
A few hours later government was informed that the property owners are now demanding that government buy the property as opposed to leasing it.

The sudden about-turn and demand for the permanent purchase of the building has taken government by surprise and amounts to holding government at gunpoint.
Government conducted consultations with local residents who even made suggestions that the government build properties that will enhance the property portfolio of the area.

It is worth mentioning that government was confronted by angry local residents who complained about the violation of building regulations and construction objections they raised against the property owners.

This prompted government to commit to investigating the community concerns which is now suspected to be the reason behind the sudden demand for government to take permanent purchase and ownership of the property.

Government is deeply concerned about some demands from residents that the flood victims not be rehoused in the area amid fears that their presence will devalue their property and lead to crime.

This is despite the fact that the majority of the residents have been living in the area for over thirty years and their livelihoods are dependent on the economy of the area.

This reprehensible behaviour flies against the spirit of seeking to assist communities in distress. It is a clear case of transferring risks and liability to government using the plight of the people in need. This is causing emotional trauma to families especially children and amounts to exploiting and holding government at ransom.

Government is not prepared to allow this dishonesty from any property owner. We had agreed to a lease, we never negotiated an outright purchase of the property.

The Provincial Government and the Municipality is currently building a permanent accommodation for the community of Truro Hall.
Owing to this unfortunate development, the government has moved the families out and temporarily housing them in a reasonable hotel while another alternative accommodation is being secured for the families who were affected by the floods.

The government is adamant that the families will not be moved back to Truro Hall but will be found a dignified accommodation where after months of trauma and suffering they can find peace and rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

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