The City of Tshwane’s decision to evict Silver Valke Rugby Club from its long-standing municipal premises in Silverton has sparked outrage. The city claims the club violated its lease by subletting the property and selling alcohol near a primary school, but the club insists it was never formally notified of any breaches.
Lease Violations Spark Eviction
Kholofelo Morodi, Tshwane’s MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, outlined the city’s case against the club. She stated that an investigation revealed the club sublet part of the property to a school for R12,000 per month, a clear violation of the lease terms. The original lease specified that the premises could only be used for rugby-related activities, with the club paying a nominal rent of R500 to the city.
In addition to subletting, the club allegedly sold alcohol near the school, raising concerns about the safety of students. Morodi emphasized that these violations left the city with no choice but to terminate the lease. “It was during this extended period of the club’s use that we discovered these breaches,” she said.
The club now has 60 days to appeal the eviction, while the city is working to find suitable alternative premises for the affected school.
Club Denies Wrongdoing
Silver Valke’s chairperson, Henry van Wyk, pushed back against the city’s claims, arguing that the club never received any formal warnings or complaints. “We were caught off guard. We didn’t receive any prior notice,” Van Wyk said. He also alleged that some ANC representatives mentioned a notice issued in 2022 but dismissed it as irrelevant to the current situation.
“If you breach an agreement, you should be given a warning and a chance to correct it,” Van Wyk added. The club is now consulting its legal team to assess the situation and plans to release a formal statement soon.
Community Impact
The eviction has left parents and students uncertain about the future, but Morodi assured them that the school would remain open while new premises are secured. “We hope future tenants will adhere to the city’s regulations and uphold the integrity of the lease,” she said.
The case has raised questions about transparency and due process in municipal lease agreements. With the club gearing up for a legal battle, the controversy is far from over.
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