08/06/2026
In a recent Media Statement, the Democratic Alliance says that the Free State High Court has dismissed its application concerning housing-related compliance in Mangaung. Cllr. Greg van Noord writes that the case was aimed at requiring the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to follow the legal prescripts for land preparation, site demarcation, service installation and the placement of residents.
Van Noord says the party will study the full court order and reasons before deciding on its next step, and will reserve all its rights and options while assessing the legal position, the facts before the court and the implications for affected residents and future development. The statement adds that any further action will be guided by the law, the evidence and the DAโs stated commitment to dignity, adequate housing, proper planning and basic service delivery.
Van Noord argues that the dispute was never about denying people access to housing, but about ensuring that human settlement projects are lawful, properly planned and supported by essential services such as water, sanitation, roads, refuse removal and electricity. He adds that Mangaung residents are entitled to housing solutions that are lawful, sustainable and backed by infrastructure that allows communities to live safely and with dignity.
