Cape Town:Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has expressed approval of the Western Cape High Court's decision to allow the department to move forward with a substituted service regarding the Knoflokskraal land occupation issue. This authorization marks a significant step towards addressing the unlawful occupation of the 2,000-hectare state-owned land in the Elgin Valley near Grabouw.
According to South African Government News Agency, the court order is the initial phase in gathering essential evidence and information to restore the rule of law at Knoflokskraal. The department is tasked with ensuring legal compliance and fairness in dealing with the unauthorized occupation of the land.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure announced plans to implement the court-approved service and notification measures, with the main court application set to be heard by February next year. The substituted service involves notifying all affected parties through various means, including notices in multiple languages, loudhailer announcements, direct service on community structures, newspaper publications, and digital access to court papers.
The government had previously indicated its intention to approach the Western Cape High Court to prevent further land occupation at Knoflokskraal, after six months of preparation and investigation. The land, unlawfully occupied in 2020, has expanded to over 4,000 structures, housing approximately 15,000 to 20,000 people.
Minister Macpherson emphasized that the court's decision enables the department to proceed with its application and ensure proper notification of affected parties. He reiterated the commitment to address the unlawful occupation through legal and transparent processes, while maintaining judicial oversight. The ultimate goal is to restore lawful governance and support economic development in the region.