Crossing The Line | Disha Govender: holding the state accountable on land

Disha Govender, former head of the Ndifuna Ukwazi Law Centre, shared insights on contentious cases during her tenure. The Constitutional Court recently deemed the sale of Tafelberg High School unlawful, compelling the province to build affordable housing instead. This decision followed an attempt by then Premier Helen Zille to sell the land in 2015, a move vehemently opposed by Ndifuna Ukwazi and other NGOs.

Govender emphasized the significance of this ruling, stating it clarifies the scope of public involvement in land disposals and reinforces the right to adequate housing. This could help desegregate cities and move away from peripheral housing developments. Govender urged the city and province to comply with the court's directives, noting progress has been slow but encouraging.

She stressed the importance of public awareness and collective pressure to ensure accountability. Despite challenges, Govender remains committed to similar causes, both at Ndifuna Ukwazi and through her current role with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, advocating for land restitution and reform.