​31-08-2016 Open and transparent housing list to be prioritized 

 
MEDIA RELEASE

Open and transparent housing list to be prioritised

It has come to my attention that communities in Johannesburg are taking the law into their own hands by illegally occupying land and properties owned by private owners and the state.

I understand the deep pain of our residents, whose dignity has been trampled on over years of self-serving arrogance in government. However, I plead with members of the public to desist from these practices.

I am committed to improving the lives of this city’s poorest residents and giving back their dignity.

The state of Johannesburg’s informal settlements and lack of basic services is a scar on the previous administration’s record.

Communities such as Slovo Park, Motsoaledi, Zandspruit, and Ennerdale were continuously lied to.

However, there are no quick fixes here. The new DA-led administration has just been given the mandate to run this city and we need time to resolve the deep-rooted problems we are facing.

I commit as a matter of urgency to compile an official housing list to determine proper allocation of housing. The process of selecting beneficiaries will be transparent, open and fair and the list will be available for anyone to see.

It should also be noted that a number of housing developments in Johannesburg need to be completed or refurbished and I am committed to expediting this process.

I appeal to the people of Johannesburg for patience. The new administration is committed to working tirelessly to provide housing opportunities and improve existing human settlements in this city. I urge people to desist from being misled by anarchists who do not have their interests at heart. These short-cut measures to invade properties and land can only retard real progress our new government intends on pursuing.

I understand that a house is more than simply four walls and a roof - it is the basis for creating a home and a safe space to live. This need is universal, and dignified housing is a right that every South African should be able to realise.

Issued on behalf of Executive Mayor Cllr Herman Mashaba

For more information please contact Michael Beaumont, Chief of Staff to the Executive Mayor City of Johannesburg on 083 776 2760, email  michaelb@joburg.org.za

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