The SPLIT was created as a result of the court order by the South Gauteng High Court which called on all the parties to engage in a mediated process to find an amicable solution to the Lenasia dispute.

This was after the SAHRC approached the courts to intervene and halt the demolition of houses by the Gauteng Department of Housing.

The Ministerial Intervention Team convened its first information-sharing meeting on Wednesday, the 28th November 2012 at the Department of Human Settlements offices in Pretoria. The SAHRC Chairperson Adv. Lawrence Mushwana led the SAHRC delegation to the meeting.

The purpose of the SPLIT, which the SAHRC is part of, is to help government find  suitable, permanent and sustainable solutions to the housing problems in Lenasia which are premised on respect for human rights and the rule of law.

The SAHRC support, and has always advocated for, an approach grounded in dialogue. A mediated approach recognises that our legal framework is built on the values enshrined in the Constitution which are reflective of our history and struggle as a country. These must be made a reality for communities.

As the SAHRC we are encouraged by the process outlined by the Department of Human SettlementS on the objectives of the SPLIT, and the possible solutions, most of which the Commission campaigned for in its court processes.
The SAHRC will support this all-inclusive process as outlined by the Minister. We will closely monitor and make inputs as we all seek to find urgently find amicable solution to address this matter.

The SAHRC will continue to ensure that the rights of the residents, especially vulnerable groups, are protected and respected as the Intervention Team embarks on a solution-finding mission.
 
ENDS

Issued by:
Isaac Mangena
Head: Communications
South African Human Rights Commission
0718848273