The IFP is encouraged to see that the Western Cape government has moved swiftly to assist victims of the New Year's Day fire in Khayelitsha, where 854 families lost their homes.

The government's plan to move these residents to the Bosasa Temporary Relocation Area however should be approached with extreme caution, as some Mfuleni residents have objected to this move as they have been on a waiting list for housing and feel that they have been overlooked.

IFP Spokesperson on Human Settlements, Mr Petros Sithole,MP said "Although the IFP is not against assistance being offered to the Khayelitsha residents, we question the wisdom of moving them to housing that residents of Mfuleni have been on the waiting list for. Another question arises as to what will happen when residents are asked to leave and they refuse to go? This may present another conflict situation."

The perceived preferential treatment given to Khayelitsha residents is not sitting well with Mfuleni residents, some of whom have threatened violence. "The MEC of Human Settlements and the City of Cape Town must reconsider this decision in order to safely avoid any conflicts from erupting," said Sithole.

IFP Parliamentary Caucus' Media Liaison Officer, Phendulani Biyase; 073 024 5675