Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town, faced criticism for his handling of an orphan’s inheritance case, where he was ordered by the court to set up a trust and transfer an RDP house to ensure the child’s future. However, his response was seen as excessively procedural and lacking concern for the child’s well-being. The case highlights the need for leadership to prioritize the rights and well-being of vulnerable residents in Cape Town, amidst its vibrant and lively atmosphere.
What was the controversy surrounding Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town?
Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town, faced widespread criticism for his handling of an orphan’s inheritance case. The court ordered him to set up a trust and transfer an RDP house to ensure the child’s future, but his response was seen as excessively procedural, demonstrating a lack of concern for the child’s well-being. Despite the court’s admonishment, Hill-Lewis’s office remained defiant. The case has sparked a call for leadership to prioritize the rights and well-being of the city’s vulnerable residents.
Mayor’s Handling of an Orphan’s Inheritance
In a recent ordeal that has drawn unwanted attention and widespread condemnation, Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town, was reprimanded by Judge Daniel Thulare of the Western Cape High Court. The issue in question involved the inheritance of a minor who lost his mother in a tragic homicide and was left without any family support. Judge Thulare issued an order for Hill-Lewis to take concrete steps to ensure the child’s future. This involved the setting up of a trust and facilitating the transfer of an RDP house, the only dwelling of the child.
The court also laid down specific instructions for the curator, the Eastern Cape Premier, and the Director-General of the National Department of Social Development. All these parties followed the court’s instructions. However, Hill-Lewis’s response was noticeably different. The mayor’s handling of the case was seen as excessively procedural, demonstrating a lack of concern for a child suffering from the devastating loss of a parent. His resolve to exclude the courts from his affairs, even at the expense of a homeless child’s safety and security, earned him harsh criticism from Judge Thulare.
Despite the court’s admonishment, Hill-Lewis’s office remains defiant. ‘The City registers the dismissal of the appeal request by Judge Thulare. The dismissal appears to lack a sound reason or legal basis, and the City is currently seeking legal counsel on presenting a direct petition to the SCA for an appeal grant,’ was the reaction when the Cape Argus asked for a comment.
Widespread Criticism and Mixed Reactions
The mayor’s conduct in this case has faced criticism from a number of sources. The National Coloured Congress, a political party, blamed Hill-Lewis of putting his interests ahead of the needs of the needy. They criticized his ethical judgment, expressing, ‘This event highlights concerns about Mayor Hill-Lewis’s leadership, suggesting he could possibly be the most indifferent, least sympathetic, and most arrogant mayor in post-apartheid South Africa.’
The case also has its defenders. Ilitha Labantu, an organization dedicated to fighting gender-based violence, criticized the mayor’s decision as indicative of the state’s failure to safeguard the child. Meanwhile, Molo Songololo, a non-profit organization committed to child protection, praised Judge Thulare’s judgement. The organization encouraged Hill-Lewis to prioritize child rights and take all necessary steps to protect the child’s interests and rights.
A Call for Leadership Amid Cape Town’s Vibrancy
The case unraveled against the backdrop of a city teeming with the dynamism and bustle for which Cape Town is renowned. Here, enticing car deals under R100,000 allure, and a host of activities are available for explorers at half the cost, highlighting the sharp contrast between the city’s lively spirit and the harsh realities endured by its most vulnerable residents. There is a growing call for the city’s leadership to not merely ignite the imaginations of its citizens with attractive offers and opportunities but also to serve as guardians of their rights and well-being.
What was the court’s order regarding the orphan’s inheritance case?
The court ordered Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town, to set up a trust and transfer an RDP house to ensure the future of a minor who lost his mother in a tragic homicide and was left without any family support.
How did Geordin Hill-Lewis respond to the court’s order?
Geordin Hill-Lewis’s response to the court’s order was seen as excessively procedural, demonstrating a lack of concern for the child’s well-being. Despite the court’s admonishment, Hill-Lewis’s office remains defiant.
Who criticized Geordin Hill-Lewis’s handling of the case?
The National Coloured Congress, a political party, criticized Geordin Hill-Lewis of putting his interests ahead of the needs of the needy. Ilitha Labantu, an organization dedicated to fighting gender-based violence, also criticized the mayor’s decision as indicative of the state’s failure to safeguard the child.
Who praised Judge Thulare’s judgement regarding the case?
Molo Songololo, a non-profit organization committed to child protection, praised Judge Thulare’s judgement and encouraged Hill-Lewis to prioritize child rights and take all necessary steps to protect the child’s interests and rights.
What is the growing call for Cape Town’s leadership?
There is a growing call for Cape Town’s leadership to not just ignite the imaginations of its citizens with attractive offers and opportunities but also to serve as guardians of their rights and well-being, particularly its vulnerable residents.
What is RDP?
RDP stands for Reconstruction and Development Programme, which is a South African government initiative to provide housing for low-income families.
