‘Just empty promises’

Residents of Joe Slovo Informal Settlement took to the streets because of empty promises that they claim were made to them.

Housing allocation was just one of the many demands, these residents were protesting

“These politicians are only seen when there are elections, they come here and make empty promises so that we can vote for them,” said Susan Moemeleng, a resident.

“The previous councillor had made promises of houses to these residents,” said Steve Kotze the DA whip for ward councillor.
“We put those politicians in the office they are in and we get this kind of treatment,” said Peter Tlholathong.
The march started at the informal settlement which is based in Coronationville and moved to Main Reef road.
Protester blocked roads with rocks and some of the resident’s pikitup bins were pushed into the road to block motorists from using the road.
Police had to use tear-gas to control the crowd of protesters.

“When we check the Integrated Development Planning (IDP), there isn’t a plan set out for Joe Slovo residents,” said Kotze.
Seven residents were arrested for public violence and have appeared in court.
Residents weren’t open to engage with the DA, as they were attacking the DA caucus cars said Kotze.
Police had to ask the DA whip and his team to leave as they were provoking protestors.
“They just appeared to be an angry group of protesters with no identified leadership or organisation,” said Kotze.