Human Rights Commission subpoenas Limpopo Provincial Government to answer for its eviction of 237 families

The South African Human Rights Commission has subpoenaed Mr Semenya, MEC for Local Government and Housing, Limpopo Province, and Mr Pasha, Municipal Manager, Lepelle Nkumpi Municipality, to appear before the Commission on the 6 July, at Turfpan in Lebowakgomo, to answer for to alleged violations of the human rights of 237 evicted families.

In May 2004, the municipality evicted the residents of Lebowakgomo Unit ‘R’ and ‘B’ to Turfpan and Kalakbelt, 21 kilometres away. On inspection of the site by the Commission it was found that there are no adequate pit latrines or water supply. Only 17 tents, some with holes, were erected for the 237 families, resulting in more than three families being accommodated in one tent. The municipality did not take measures to provide for people with disabilities, the sick and elderly, and interfered with the schooling of learners. The Commission alleges the government has violated the right to access to adequate housing, health care services, the right to education, the right of the child to be protected from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, the right to dignity and just administrative action.

The Commission approached the MEC: Local Government and Housing to intervene on 18th May and 17th June. The MEC failed to co-operate with the Commission.

The Commission has summoned the government to appear in Turfpan, so officials can witness first hand the conditions under which the community lives. The hearings will begin at 9am.