Limiting the Use of PIE in our Constitutional Democracy: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25159/2522-6800/15415Keywords:
eviction, unlawful occupation, PIE, rei vindicatio, student residenceAbstract
Eviction jurisprudence has taken some interesting turns in our constitutional democracy when it comes to the applicability of PIE in various contexts. Very recently, the court in Stay at South Point Properties (Pty) Ltd v Mqulwana and Others held that PIE is not applicable to the eviction of students from student residences at higher education institutions because this type of accommodation is not considered a ‘home.’ This article reflects on whether limiting the use of PIE in this context is a step in the right direction given some pivotal judgments that have sought to ensure the eviction of vulnerable occupiers takes place in a humane and dignified manner. It is argued that bringing the rei vindicatio back in the context of eviction from residential premises should be approached with caution because it runs the risk of undoing the progress made in our constitutional democracy when it comes to proscribing arbitrary evictions. Moreover, the lack of sound justification for not recognising this type of accommodation as a home, is exactly the reason it may be necessary to maintain some court discretion in determining whether the eviction of students from student residences is just and equitable.
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Legislation
Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act 19 of 1998.
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