The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Buffalo City Metro welcomes the High Court’s decision to halt unlawful construction on prime agricultural land near East London. This ruling sends a clear message: land invasions are illegal and they will not be tolerated.
We commend the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson for acting decisively to protect state-owned land. The Constitution is not optional and neither is the rule of law. When public land is invaded and developed without due process, it undermines property rights, damages investor confidence, threatens food security and places enormous pressure on already struggling municipal services. Buffalo City Metro cannot afford chaos masquerading as land reform.
[see statement by Minister Macpherson here]
The DA believes in meaningful, lawful land reform that expands access and opportunity – but it must happen within the framework of the Constitution. Unlawful land grabs do not empower the poor; they entrench disorder, stall development and cost taxpayers millions in legal battles and remedial action.
This court order reaffirms a simple principle: no individual or group has the right to occupy or develop land outside of the law.
The DA in Buffalo City stands firmly behind efforts to safeguard public land for its intended purpose and to ensure that development occurs in an orderly, lawful manner. We will continue to champion the protection of property rights, the enforcement of the rule of law and responsible governance that creates an environment conducive to investment, growth, and job creation.
The Eastern Cape cannot build a thriving economy or restore dignity to its people if the law is selectively applied. The Constitution must remain our guiding framework, and it must be upheld consistently and without exception.