WATCH | SAHRC slams Lesufi’s ‘cruel’ eviction plan — informal settlements at risk

Johannesburg – The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has condemned Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s plan to evict and dismantle informal settlements, calling it “inhumane, degrading and dangerous”.

But the commission warned that such actions risk displacing vulnerable families, exposing them to crime and trauma, and violating constitutional rights to dignity and adequate housing.

It stressed that evictions without a court order are illegal under Section 26(3) of the Constitution and the Prevention of Illegal Eviction Act, which require judicial oversight and protection for vulnerable groups.

“It is likely to expose families to criminality, trauma and displacement and erodes the foundations of our constitutional democracy,” the commission said.

The South African Human Rights Commission condemns Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s eviction plans. It follows his promise to demolish illegal informal settlements in the dead of night. He is also vowing to reclaim hijacked buildings. #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/ftkiq4dk0p

— eNCA (@eNCA) September 8, 2025

“The commission is concerned that children might be torn from their homes, [about] older people losing access to care and people with disabilities being left without support or shelter.

These acts are not administrative oversights; they are systemic failures that disproportionately harm the poor, the marginalised and the voiceless.

The SA Human Rights Commission is opposing the latest evictions in Gauteng, including the City of Ekurhuleni. The Commission has also expressed concern over recent remarks by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi on informal settlements and hijacked buildings. It says Lesufi’s comments… pic.twitter.com/VqGxjoUFD3

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) September 7, 2025

“The constitution places human dignity, equality and the right to adequate housing at the heart of our legal order. Section 26(3) explicitly prohibits evictions without a court order made after considering all relevant circumstances. The Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act operationalises this protection, requiring judicial oversight, meaningful engagement and safeguards for vulnerable groups. These are not optional guidelines; they are binding legal obligations.”

The SAHRC urged government and law enforcement to act with compassion and legality, cautioning that eviction should not lead to destitution or exclusion.

It pledged to engage with relevant ministers and bodies, including COGTA, Human Settlements, SALGA, and PSIRA, to address the issue and safeguard human rights.