The community of Huhudi is bracing for a protest march organized by Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba, scheduled for Thursday, 05 December 2024, to address allegations surrounding the relocation of Morning Star Academy to the old Teba building. The civic organization submitted a formal statement to The Vryburg Independent Post Team (The VIP Team) outlining their concerns and motivations for the planned demonstration.

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Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba’s Allegations

In their statement, Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba claims that the old Teba building is a community asset and questions the legitimacy of Morning Star Academy’s occupation of the property. They accuse the academy of proceeding without proper community consultation and argue that the building should be utilized for the benefit of all residents.

The organization has further alleged that the academy’s operations are influenced by foreign nationals, stating that this could undermine opportunities for locals. Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba has called on community members to join the march to demand accountability and transparency.

Morning Star Academy Responds

In a telephonic interview with The VIP Team, Morning Star Academy owner, Ms. Nomvula Mabija, confirmed that the institution is in the process of relocating to the old Teba building and is currently renovating the dilapidated structure. She emphasized that the property is privately owned, and the academy has adhered to all necessary procedures to acquire and develop it.

While Ms. Mabija refrained from disclosing the name of the building’s owner, citing privacy concerns at the owner’s request, she called for a meeting with all parties involved to resolve the misunderstandings amicably before the march. “We want to focus on fostering unity and ensuring the community understands the positive changes we are bringing to the area,” said Mabija.

Principal Labels March as Xenophobic

Morning Star Academy principal, Mr. Emmanuel Amponsah, also spoke with The VIP Team, voicing his displeasure with the planned protest. He labeled the march as a “barbaric activity” and accused the organizers of being driven by xenophobic motives.

Mr. Amponsah highlighted that the building has been unused and vandalized for over 20 years, questioning why there are objections now that the academy is investing in its revival. He also noted that the owner of Morning Star Academy is South African and that the majority of the staff are South Africans, with all foreign nationals working legally in the country.

“This march is in bad faith and fails to consider the good we are doing for the building and the community. The SGB and SMT are equally unhappy about these developments,” he stated.

Community Reactions

The planned march has stirred divided opinions within the Huhudi community. Some residents support Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba’s demand for transparency and community consultation, while others believe the academy’s efforts to revitalize the old Teba building should be celebrated.

One resident said, “If the building is privately owned, then there’s no issue here. The academy is doing something good, and we should support them.”

Another resident expressed skepticism, saying, “The community deserves to know the details of the building’s ownership and ensure it is being used appropriately.”

What Lies Ahead

The protest march, set for Thursday, 05 December 2024, promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing dispute. Morning Star Academy has reiterated its willingness to meet with Setsokotsane Sa Sechaba to address concerns. Whether this meeting will take place before the march remains uncertain.

As the Huhudi community awaits further developments, the situation underscores the importance of transparent dialogue and collaboration in addressing community concerns. The VIP Team will continue to monitor the story and provide updates as they unfold.

According to an approved application to March, by Setsokotsane Sa sechaba, in terms of the regulations of the Gathering Act of 1993, the march will be held from 9am to 2pm. The application also states that the participants will gather at Huhudi Circle and the route of the procession shall be as

indicated in their application form and as agreed during the Section 4 meeting, held on the 25th of November 2024 at Naledi Local Municipality.

-The VIP Team

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