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The SAHRC sets up a station ahead of its load reduction inquiry.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is investigating a complaint from tenants at the Merriespruit Complex in Virginia in the Free State.
Acting provincial manager Thonoko Modise says preliminary findings indicate that residents have been exposed to unhygienic conditions due to sewage spillages.
The commission says it may take legal action if the Matjhabeng Municipality does not respond to its findings and recommendations.
“We understand also that electricity has been cut off for residents, which also denies them access to electricity, and you know, with electricity, people cook, children go to school, they need to study, food, and it’s a necessity that people need to have. So these are some of the violations that we picked up. Access to water, exposure to an environment that is unhealthy and unhygienic as a result of spillages and unilateral switching off of electricity,” said Modise.
The municipality, however, says some tenants have had their water and electricity disconnected due to non-payment.
Spokesperson Tseliso Tlali says some residents do not have formal lease agreements, making billing difficult and placing financial strain on the municipality.
He has urged affected tenants to engage with the municipality.
