Mangaung Metro is determined to halt the rot at the Brandwag Flats in Bloemfontein.

On Monday (9/9) evening, while verifying tenants door-to-door, Mangaung city manager, Sello More, revealed that a mere 2.5% of occupants of the social housing units pay rent. It’s understood that most tenants have not paid rent for at least five years.

Despite the long-standing nonpayment of rent, some occupants, including illegal tenants, previously marched to the metro’s headquarters to demand services. They were unhappy about unaddressed sewage spills, unannounced cuts to the water supply, and a lack of security at the entrance of the flats, among others.

“You can imagine the challenge we face in providing services and maintaining cleanliness,” said More. “People often see on social media how filthy the place is, and for us to provide regular services, we need those staying there to pay for services and rates.”

The municipality’s objective is to ensure only eligible tenants reside at the Brandwag social housing flats, said More. Those who do not qualify will be required to vacate the premises.

“If you earn above the threshold for staying here, you must find alternative accommodation. Our history here is that some people, including government employees with high salaries, live here when they could afford to buy their own homes.”

He said the metro is “regularising” the situation. To combat illegal activities and remove illegal foreigners, the metro brought in immigration services, Home Affairs, and all law enforcement agencies “to determine who is living here”.

However, occupants accuse the metro of poor communication and failing to respond to their previous complaints about services, including clarifying rent payment processes.

The verification process is expected to continue until 30 September, as the metro attempts to reclaim control and ensure that the Brandwag complex serves its intended purpose as a social housing facility.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg