Cape Town is set to take decisive action against foreign nationals living unlawfully in the city, as Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis announces a joint eviction application alongside the Ministers of Home Affairs and Public Works, reports Cape {town} Etc.
This long-awaited move targets individuals residing at Wingfield and Paint City in Bellville, who have reportedly turned down various support offers, including reintegration and repatriation assistance.
Hill-Lewis addressed the pressing issue in a recent statement, emphasising the City’s commitment to restoring law and order in these areas.
‘Despite years of support, those living at these sites refuse all assistance, demanding relocation to Europe or Canada,’ he stated firmly.
‘That is simply not going to happen. Working together, the state will end unsafe living conditions and restore law and order at these sites for our residents’ safety.’
The minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, added further context to the initiative, highlighting the broader enforcement strategy under ‘Operation New Broom’. This operation aims to address the illegal occupation of public spaces across the city.
‘Through enforcement operations, through the courts, and in collaboration with other agencies, we’re enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour,’ Macpherson asserted.
The decision to proceed with the joint eviction application marks a significant escalation in efforts to manage unlawful settlement in Cape Town.
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Local authorities have faced increasing pressure from residents concerned about safety and living conditions in their communities. With a clear directive from City leadership, the government aims not only to protect its citizens but also to ensure that public spaces remain safe and accessible for all.
In February this year, Cape {town} Etc reported that months after a landmark judgement by the Constitutional Court, residents of Bromwell Street in Cape Town were stuck in limbo.
Six cottages in the street in Woodstock were bought by a property developer in 2013. The City offered the residents facing eviction alternative accommodation in areas such as Wolwerivier, far from the schools, places of work and facilities the residents were using. The legal battle commenced in 2016.
In December last year, the apex court ruled that the City should provide emergency accommodation in Woodstock, Salt River or the inner city, as close to Bromwell Street as possible.
The judgement said evictions may not take place until such time as a reasonable temporary emergency accommodation policy was developed and implemented.
The Bromwell residents – including pensioners and children – celebrated the court ruling after their eight-year-long legal battle.
More than 20 people are currently staying in the cottages.
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