SANDF Slammed for Neglecting Dilapidated Pretoria Flats, Sewage Crisis Sparks Outrage

Pretoria, South Africa – A block of flats managed by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in Pretoria’s inner city has come under fire after a sewage spill exposed the shocking neglect of the property, endangering the health of nearby residents.

The flats, located at the corner of Steve Biko and Justice Mahomed streets, have become a symbol of dereliction, with crumbling walls, missing windows, and raw sewage spilling into the streets. Local officials and residents are demanding urgent intervention.

EFF MMC Obakeng Ramabodu Speaks Out

EFF regional chairperson and Tshwane MMC, Obakeng Ramabodu, took to social media to expose the deplorable state of the SANDF-managed flats. In a widely shared video, Ramabodu criticized the SANDF for neglecting its responsibilities.

“There is nothing working here,” he said, pointing to the sewage pouring out of the building. “This is unacceptable. It’s a health hazard, and the SANDF needs to take responsibility immediately.”

Ramabodu further emphasized that the flat had been in a dilapidated state for years, despite repeated complaints. “The sewer spills across the street, and people think it’s the municipality’s fault. But this is managed by the SANDF, and they’ve done nothing,” he stated.

He also warned that the building’s structural integrity was compromised. “This flat is a ticking time bomb. It’s not safe for anyone to live here,” he added.

Residents and neighbors voiced their frustrations about the deteriorating conditions. A neighbor called the situation “shameful,” saying, “How can a department responsible for national defence treat its employees like this? This is no way to live.”

A visit to the flats revealed a grim picture:

• Structural decay: Cracked walls and missing windows.
• Health risks: The stench from the sewage spill made the air nearly unbreathable.
• Living conditions: Residents are forced to endure unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

No Response from SANDF

Attempts to get a comment from SANDF spokesperson Simphiwe Dlamini on plans to address the property’s issues were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

Ramabodu pledged to work with municipal workers to address the immediate sewage problem, but he stressed that long-term action from the SANDF was necessary.

“This is a government disgrace,” he concluded.

The SANDF’s neglect has drawn public condemnation, with calls for accountability growing louder. As the sewage crisis poses a clear health risk, immediate intervention is needed to restore safety and dignity to the affected residents.