Urgent Notice to Street Vendors: District Administrator Calls for Immediate Evacuation of Parking Lots

The Office of the District Administrator has issued a stern ultimatum to street vendors and hawkers, demanding the removal of their goods from illegally occupied parking lots by Friday. This directive was confirmed by District Administrator Ms. Moleboheng Lebele in a recent interview with the Agency.

According to Ms. Lebele, police officers, alongside the Urban Council, will be deployed to ensure that vendors comply with this order. The initiative follows a written letter from her office addressing the issue, highlighting the need for a more organized use of public spaces.

This latest directive comes in the wake of a previous letter dated May 2023 from Town Clerk Mr. Kekeletso Matlosa, which also requested vendors to vacate the parking areas. The May correspondence emphasized that the vendors’ goods were occupying a significant portion of the parking lots, creating considerable inconvenience for residents and visitors who rely on these spaces for their vehicles.

Concerns from the Community

The decision to enforce the evacuation stems from complaints lodged with the Urban Council by concerned citizens. Residents have expressed frustrations over the lack of available parking while running errands around town. Additionally, there are growing concerns regarding businesses displaying their goods outside their shops and occupying parking areas without authorization.

These complaints underscore the need for balance between supporting local entrepreneurship and maintaining public order. The Urban Council aims to address these concerns by ensuring that public spaces are accessible and that vendors operate within designated areas.

Moving Forward

As the deadline approaches, the District Administrator’s office is urging street vendors to comply with the order to avoid potential legal repercussions. The enforcement of these regulations is expected to restore order to the parking areas, benefiting both vendors and the community at large.

The situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenge faced by local authorities in managing public spaces while fostering a vibrant marketplace for street vendors. The cooperation of all stakeholders is essential to ensure a harmonious coexistence in the urban environment.