Ekurhuleni to kick off land expropriation without compensation

Parliament is yet to adopt the policy but Ekhurhuleni Mayor, Mzwandile Masina says they are ready to expropriate land without compensation.

The municipality has identified four properties - three are privately owned.

The owners of the occupied properties allegedly relinquished their property ownership rights and responsibilities.

Combined its about 350 hectors of land.

Masina says if their bid is successful, the properties will be demolished to establish townships.

"It is well thought of, we followed every legal prescript to come to this. For me, I think this is a victory for Ekurhuleni other than victory for individuals," was Masina's response on his municipality being the first to test the limits of the Constitution.

According to Masina, it took the municipality roughly 24 months to prepare for this land reform program.

"We will now be starting with the legal process with the deeds office and everyone who is involved. If there are any legal challenges - we are ready to go to court to defend our decision."

A private farm in Rietfontein, a 101.2 hectares privately owned property in Elandsfontein and 205 hectares of land, owned by government in Benoni, are some of the pieces of land expected to be expropriated without compensation.