After another attempt to stop the influx of informal settlers to the Lourierpark area, this time by the Lourierpark Neighbourhood Association, was unsuccessful.

This comes after the urgent application of the neighbourhood association was struck off the roll by the Free State High Court.

David Mc Kay, the DA’s spokesperson on Cogta and Human Settlements in the Free State Legislature, said on Friday the ANC continues to sacrifice the well-being of communities for political gain.

“We are intensifying our oversight and demanding immediate compliance with constitutional and environmental laws to protect both established communities and those being exploited by the ANC’s political games,” he said.

“The DA is appalled by the ANC’s blatant disregard for the law and the dignity of Mangaung’s people. The recent land occupation and site-allocation debacle at Lourierpark is not merely a symptom of failed governance; it is a calculated abuse of the most vulnerable, who are used as pawns in a desperate bid to score political points.

“The ANC’s actions have resulted in chaos, insecurity, and the erosion of basic human rights, as families are herded onto land without proper planning, infrastructure, or legal authorisation.”

He said the DA’s legal position is clear and unwavering. “We have consistently demanded that all land development and site allocations comply with the law. This includes adherence to environmental regulations, transparent demarcation processes, and the provision of essential services before any relocation or occupation. The ANC’s disregard for these requirements is not only illegal but also exposes residents to hazardous conditions and strips them of their dignity.

“We stand with the people of Mangaung, both those in established suburbs and those forced into precarious settlements. The DA recognises the pain and uncertainty inflicted on families who are promised homes, but are left with only empty promises and political exploitation. We will not allow the ANC to continue sacrificing the well-being of our communities for short-term political gain,” he said.

In a statement by the Mangaung Metro on Sunday 14 June, MMM spokesperson Nicolette Maysiels said the municipality acknowledges concerns raised by the Lourierpark Neighbourhood Association regarding the project.

“The metro remains committed to ensuring that all beneficiary allocations are undertaken in accordance with applicable housing policies, legislative requirements and approved processes.

“The court’s decision clears the way for the continuation of approved development activities, including land preparation and related infrastructure planning processes necessary for the implementation of the project.”

In the MMM statement the metro called on residents to refrain from unlawful land occupation.