Land Auction in Cape Town Faces Mounting Opposition
– A planned land auction by the City of Cape Town is facing increasing opposition from a broad coalition of groups, who are alleging a “neocolonial land grab” and preparing for legal challenges and mass mobilization. The auction is scheduled for February 26th.
The coalition, comprised of Indigenous bodies, civic organizations, traditional councils and political groupings, formally served a constitutional notice through the Oedasoa Cochoqua Royal Kingdom. They argue that the auction prioritizes private development over the needs of poor and landless communities, echoing concerns of a “second District Six removal.”
According to a statement released Sunday, the groups claim that valuable public land is being sold off to the highest bidders, rather than being used to address social needs. They contend that meaningful public participation has not taken place and that communities were not adequately informed about the proposed land disposals.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has also urged the postponement of the auction process, adding to the pressure on the City of Cape Town.
The coalition intends to launch an urgent legal challenge, including seeking an interdict to halt the auction while broader legal and constitutional questions are addressed. They allege the process lacks transparency and fairness.
In addition to legal action, the coalition is organizing a mass mobilization at the Good Hope Centre on Tuesday at 8:30 am, two days before the scheduled auction. The demonstration aims to showcase widespread public opposition to the sale of the land.
The City of Cape Town has maintained its intention to proceed with the auction, despite the growing controversy. Fifty properties are reportedly under the hammer.
The accusations of a “land grab” come as the Democratic Alliance (DA)-run city faces scrutiny over its land management policies. Critics argue that the auction will exacerbate existing inequalities and further marginalize vulnerable communities.
The planned auction has sparked a debate about land ownership, historical injustices, and the responsibility of local government to address the needs of its citizens. The coalition’s opposition signals a determined effort to prevent the sale of land they believe should be used for the benefit of all residents of Cape Town.
