Note to Broadcasters: Please find linked soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Cllr Erna Rossouw.
Recent oversight by the DA in Madibeng Local Municipality has revealed that the municipality has entered into lease agreements for plant hire, building trailers, and scrap metal yards on agricultural land without conducting thorough investigations into rezoning requirements. This decision has significant implications for land use and future developments.
During our oversight inspection of the property, we found that the leased property lacks essential infrastructure such as water and electricity connections.
The property in question serves as one of the main entrances to Hartbeespoort. Its strategic location makes it crucial for proper planning and development.
Despite its significance, the lessee has decided to make this entrance from the R511 which is the busiest access point to Hartbeespoort. This decision could impact traffic flow and safety in the area, especially over weekends.
It’s important to note that the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) did not grant permission for any entrances to this specific property. The lack of coordination with Sanral raises further questions about the municipality’s decision-making process.
The Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act 70 of 1970 stipulates that no lease shall be entered into for a portion of agricultural land unless the Minister of Agriculture provides written consent. This consent is required for all leases of 10-years or more, those tied to the natural life of the lessee, or those renewable indefinitely. Failure to obtain such consent renders the lease agreement void.
The DA today, wrote to the Executive Mayor, Cllr Douglas Maimane, and the Municipal Manager, Mrs Morufo Moloto, to immediately put an end to all lease agreements subject to the rezoning process and to obtain the necessary approval from the Minister of Agriculture, Thokozile Didiza. (See letter here)
We also demanded the Mayor send out official invitations for a proper public participation process meeting during the rezoning process, where submission of the public must be considered before there can be any consideration of facilitating rezoning in support of this lease.
Madibeng Municipality must promptly investigate the rezoning requirements for the leased agricultural land. Compliance with legal provisions is essential to avoid invalid lease agreements.
On 29 May 2024, residents of Madibeng have the opportunity to vote in a DA government in order to end lawlessness and restore service delivery.