Douglasdale community members accuse the religious group of littering
Community members in Douglasdale are upping arms about what they call a “cesspit of litter and filth.
Residents in Douglasdale are up in arms about what they call a ‘cesspit of litter and filth’. This comes after complaints against worshippers on the corner of Leslie Avenue and Robyn Road. Residents accuse worshippers of littering the river at Robyn Park. An upset Linda Ferns, a Douglasdale resident, said, “We have absolutely no issue with the river being used as a community prayer site, but there is absolutely no reason for litter and filth being left behind after every weekend. This has nothing to do with religious rites – we respect those 100%. I just have zero tolerance for litter and filth.”
South Africa’s constitution, signed into law in 1996, protects religious rights. Chapter two of the constitution (the Bill of Rights), section 15 sub-section 1, reads, “Everyone has the right to freedom of conscience, religion, thought, belief and opinion.” But residents are off the view that they are being deprived of a clean and well-capped environment.
Members of the Douglasdale community reported the issue of littering and filth to their local ward 106 councillor Chris Santana. In his reply, councillor Santana said, “I am aware of the situation and relevant violations of our bylaws. Unfortunately, it’s a process as a multitude of entities and departments are involved in finding a solution. As you are aware the constitution allows freedom of religion, so in assent, this is a complicated and sensitive matter.” Residents are encouraged to report this issue to the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) who will advise on how the issue of littering could be addressed.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said, “The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has recently been brought to the attention of this matter, and the department will investigate.
“The JMPD discourages this type of conduct and those who are found breaking the law or City By-laws will face the consequences.”
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