Normandien farmers call on govt to finalise land debate after couple murdered

Farmers in Normandien, in northern KwaZulu-Natal, where a prominent farming couple were recently murdered are calling for the government to finalize the land debate.

Glen Rafferty (60) and his wife, 60-year-old Vida, were ambushed while returning from a social outing late last month.

A 29-year-old suspect has been arrested and he’s expected to appear in the Newcastle Magistrates Court on Monday.

However, local farmers said that a long-term solution to land and crime issues was needed in the area.

There is consensus among government authorities, farmers, workers, and farm dwellers that racial tensions are rife in Normandien.

Darrel Brown, a local commercial farmer, said that the government needed to act fast to ensure long-term harmony in the area.

“The problem is, petty crime is not dealt with adequately in the area, with the result that farmers land up having to deal with a number of the petty crime issues themselves, which brings about unnecessary racial tensions. We are 26 years into this democracy and we’re no closer to finalizing and sorting out the whole land issue.”

Police Minister Bheki Cele is hosting an imbizo in the community.

He’s expected to outline how the government plans to assist the community through its rural safety plan.

-EWN

In other news – Level 1 lockdown: Inside Somizi and hubby Mohale’s road trip – Watch

Mzansi’s power couple Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung, are living their best lives and it is only safe to say “sbwl.” The lovebirds posted this morning that they are off to their holiday destination.

Somizi and Mohale are known for their glamorous lifestyle and their beacations are always OTT (Over The Top), because they want to have us all in our feels. From sight-seeings, to watching the sunset together, and expensive shopping’s the couple is goals. Learn More