Land acquisition of foreign-owned churches in Ext 71 questioned
In a community meeting held last Sunday, it was said that unlike those who often have their services held in forests, residents want to know how alleged Zimbabwean nationals acquired land in South Africa.
POLOKWANE – Residents of Seshego Ext 71 in Block A want the Polokwane Municipality and the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) to investigate the number of foreign-owned churches located in a single street in the area.
In a community meeting held last Sunday, it was said that unlike those who often have their services held in forests, residents want to know how alleged Zimbabwean nationals acquired land in South Africa.
The area has hardly any identifiable street names, however, churches are located to the far right of the Matlala road power station, near the newly built RDP houses in Ext 78.
Residents who were present at the meeting with their councillor, Gloria Mabote, and other ward committee members preferred to speak under the condition of anonymity, out of fear of victimisation. They claim land in the area was improperly awarded through the alleged foreign-owned churches.
“We want the municipality to produce proof if the land was indeed given to them legally,” said one resident.
Mabote asked for time from the residents to escalate the matter to the municipality.
Meanwhile, Polokwane Municipality spokesperson Thipa Selala says it is concerning that residents have kept quiet about the matter for over a year, only to bring it to their attention now.
“Because of the nature of the matter we cannot give an immediate response without due investigation. The matter has been taken back to those who investigate for the municipality on the ground, and the truth will be found. Only then, we will give a fitting response,” Selala said.
