The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Eastern Cape stepped in on 19 November 2025, to halt ongoing home demolitions in Ward 31, eBhongweni. The party responded to urgent calls from residents after more than 20 brick houses were destroyed. Officials were reportedly preparing to demolish additional homes when the EFF arrived.
What Happened
Residents alerted the EFF that demolitions led by local authorities had left families stranded with no alternatives. When EFF provincial leaders and public representatives reached eBhongweni, they found widespread destruction and more demolitions underway.
Community members had already filed an urgent court application scheduled to be heard at 16:00, seeking an interdict to stop the operation.
During the confrontation, tensions rose. The EFF reports that SAPS officers and the sheriff refused to engage, displaying what the party described as open hostility.
Official Response
The EFF says its presence forced authorities to stop all further demolitions until the court delivered a ruling. “Our intervention provided affected families with temporary relief and prevented further destruction of their homes,” the party said in a statement.
The EFF added that it will continue to explore every available avenue should the community’s court bid fail.
“No community should face cruelty and neglect from a government that has abandoned the poor,” the party said.
Community Impact
Residents now have a temporary reprieve, though long-term uncertainty remains. Families displaced by the demolitions are relying on the court process to protect their homes.
