Nyhontso steps in as East London community faces demolition threats over illegally sold land

By Thapelo Molefe

Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso has moved to halt looming home demolitions on a farm outside East London, telling more than 250 residents that their houses will not be torn down despite threats by leaders of the I-Elam Communal Property Association (CPA).

The intervention follows mounting tension at a 158-hectare property allocated to the I-Elam CPA more than two decades ago, after its representatives warned that homes built on the land would be demolished. The threats sparked fear among families who had bought plots and constructed houses, allegedly unaware that the land sales were unlawful.

Nyhontso met with CPA representatives, affected residents, and other stakeholders this week about the illegal sale and demarcation of plots on the farm. 

The engagement was convened after concerns raised by the East London community.

“This is after the representatives of the I-Elam Communal Property Association (CPA) threatened to