Ward councillor attacked by angry protestors

By Cindy Witten
31 October

On Wednesday night members of the low-cost housing scheme in Masiphumelele were attacked, following a disagreement with protestors who refused to be moved from a piece of land. The area, which is to be used to build a block of flats, will house 352 families.

Those living on the plot were given an alternative piece of land on which to stay, but rejected the offer, saying that the land was too small. Residents also demanded that ward councillor Felicity Purchase ensure that electricity was provided, but she dismissed the request.

“We were than mobbed by about 20 very angry residents who said that they were now going to fight. They demanded that I give then electricity straight away,” said Purchase.

Realising that the situation was getting intense, Purchase agreed to immediately contact the electricity department, but before she was able to do so, protestors burst in and began to attack the members with knives and stones. Four suspects have thus far been arrested in connection with the attack.