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7 Sep 2010

Following extensive consultations and discussions between the MEC for Local Government and Housing Soviet Lekganyane, Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Lawrence Mapoulo and Acting Executive Mayor of Polokwane Caiphus Mathiba, a decision has been taken to intervene in the affairs of the Ga-Rena Rental Village. Tenants have been raising several concerns and complaints for some time now.

MEC Soviet Lekganyane would also like to express his disappointment and at the unwillingness on the part of some officials of the Polokwane Municipality to resolve the problems of Ga-Rena despite numerous requests to do so. The MEC also condemns some of the inhumane manner in which tenants of Ga-Rena were treated. He has instructed that all threats of eviction and legal notices against tenants be withdrawn.

The MEC has also noted reports of alleged corruption, nepotism and fraud in the running of Ga-Rena as it relates to how the houses are allocated for rentals. Corruption and maladministration will not be tolerated and those found to have contravened applicable laws will face the music.

We are currently reviewing the Legislation that governs and regulates Social Housing in general including facilities like Ga-Rena particularly the element of how boards that run these facilities are constituted. We want to explore how to include tenants as members of the board.

Following the discussion between all role players in the matter, the Board of the Polokwane Housing Association that was managing the affairs of Ga-Rena has been requested to resign and they have. A new board will be constituted soon and their names will be made public.

For more information please contact:
Clayson Monyela
Cell:082 806 7405

Issued by: Limpopo Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs
7 Sep 2010

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