The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) facilitated a constructive meeting between Tshwane’s Deputy Mayor, Eugene Modise, and the board of directors of Kleinfontein Aandeleblok (Pty) Ltd.
The discussion, attended by Kleinfontein’s officially elected chairperson, Rian Genis, and deputy chairperson, Dannie de Beer, was characterised by a positive and cooperative spirit.
All parties agreed that a sensible solution can, and should, be found to resolve the Kleinfontein issue – the Metro has imposed excessive property rates on the settlement even though it is virtually self-sufficient as regards municipal services.
This approach could also serve as a blueprint for addressing and formalising the 16 other so-called illegal settlements in Tshwane.
During the meeting, it was specifically pointed out that a previous delegation claiming to represent Kleinfontein was, in fact, not lawfully mandated by the community – these individuals were disgruntled residents who had approached the court.
Their court application ultimately resulted in a ruling against the Metro.
Yesterday’s (Thursday) meeting has paved the way for meaningful dialogue with Kleinfontein’s lawfully elected leadership.
Those who attended the meeting agreed to convene a follow-up meeting that will be attended by Tshwane’s legal team, the city manager, the relevant officials, the deputy mayor, the Freedom Front Plus caucus leader, Kleinfontein’s lawfully elected representatives and their legal team.
This inclusive process aims to ensure transparency, fairness and sustainable solutions.
In September this year, Kleinfontein’s board of directors submitted another formal proposal, detailing a practical way forward to settle the matter out of court, to the Metro.
This approach could save a lot of public funds, provide security and stability to Kleinfontein residents, and possibly also bring relief to residents of the other 16 settlements in question.
The Freedom Front Plus welcomes this breakthrough and remains committed to facilitating principled, statutorily compliant solutions that restore community dignity while protecting municipal integrity.
FF+ Manifesto on Rural development: Promoting development in rural areas.
Lord Theus
Shongololo – millipede [sh-ong-o-loh-loh] A term used to describe a large brown millipede. It is derived from the isiZulu word ‘ukushonga’, meaning to roll up.
K-Tin Man
Jol – party / to have fun [jo-rl] Similar to ‘kiff’ or ‘kief’, jol can be used in any context to express having a good time.Example: “I’m going to a jol tonight!” / “I’m having a jol!” / “It was such a jol!”