Lwandle inquiry term extended
The inquiry is expected to submit its comprehensive report with clear recommendations to Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu on the conclusion of its investigation.
Minister Sisulu extended the inquiry term following the chairperson's request after receiving a large volume of written submissions on Lwandle evictions.
The department said the extension was also necessitated by the extensive interest shown by the affected community of Lwandle and other stakeholders to participate in the investigation process.
The inquiry was appointed by Minister Sisulu to investigate the evictions at Lwandle in Cape Town, on 2 and 3 June this year.
The inquiry is mandated to investigate all the circumstances under which the evictions took place and the history of the evictions, including the facts leading to the application for and obtaining of the court order on 24 January by South African National Road Agency (SANRAL).
The investigation also includes execution of the said court order by SANRAL, the role of the relevant Sheriff for the jurisdiction of Cape Town, the roles of the law enforcement officials of the South African Police Services, the Cape Town Metro Police and any other official of the national, provincial and local government involved and any other person.
The inquiry is also expected to establish the identity of the affected members of the informal settlement community of Lwandle - how the community came to be on the land in question when there is a waiting list for the provision of housing in terms of government programmes.
About 800 residents were evicted from Lwandle informal settlement following a court order that they be removed, as the land they stayed on was being occupied illegally. The land in question is reportedly owned by SANRAL.
SANRAL evicted hundreds of people who had illegally invaded the area, which is earmarked for road construction.
Minister Sisulu and Transport Minister Dipuo Peters had then taken responsibility for the evictions and her team had provided the evicted families with alternative accommodation.