Meshoe disturbed by demolition of churches in the city

By Ofentse Mokae
12 March 2010

African Christian Democratic Party President Kenneth Meshoe has expressed his disturbance and shock on the destruction of church buildings in Khayelitsha.

The City of Cape Town allegedly ordered, without the instruction of a relevant court, the eviction and destruction of property used by churches for worship in the area.

“I was shocked by the destruction I saw yesterday, and saddened by what appeared to be a blatant targeting of churches, while shebeens in the same street were left untouched,” Meshoe said.

Meshoe says some of the churches that were destroyed have allegedly been on the disputed land for more than five years, while some have soup kitchens that were feeding the poor and destitute in Khayelitsha.

“The ACDP believes the Cape Town Municipality that allegedly did not have a court order instructing the demolition and removal of the structures owes the affected churches an apology and compensation, but also a suitable alternative accommodation or land where they can hold their regular church services” Meshoe added.