Landmark judgment on evictions in Johannesburg

This article discusses a landmark ruling by the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, where the City of Johannesburg was ordered to pay over R12 million to a property company, Changing Tides, due to its failure to provide temporary accommodation for residents of a “hijacked” building. This failure delayed the company’s ability to evict unlawful occupiers and renovate the building, resulting in significant financial losses. The court found the City negligent and reckless, noting it only acted when officials faced contempt proceedings. The judgment underscores the City’s constitutional duty to comply with court orders and protect both property rights and the housing rights of vulnerable residents, setting a significant precedent for eviction-related cases nationwide.

Abstract based on original source.