Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and the MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara, have blood on their hands. They must account for the tragic death of a man who died after part of the deteriorating structure of the Montrose mega housing project in Rand West caved in and trapped him under the rubble.
Instead of hiring a competent developer, Premier Lesufi’s government chose an incompetent company that has failed to deliver and is now holding this R11 billion project to ransom. Sadly, the residents face the consequences of the developers and politicians’ actions. An urgent investigation must be launched into this tragic incident, and those responsible must be held accountable regardless of their position in the power structure.
The Montrose mega housing project remains unfinished despite having cost taxpayers over R467 million since its inception. This is due to a dispute between the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements and the developer, rendering the site a certified danger zone. Rather than providing relief to the thousands of residents in Randfontein who are currently enduring inhumane and undignified living conditions, the project highlights the Gauteng government’s tragic failure to deliver adequate housing.
The DA Gauteng has long warned that if housing projects are left abandoned, they will be illegally occupied and damaged by those with criminal intent. Our caution fell on the deaf ears of an arrogant government, and now these projects are facing invasions and vandalism, which will undoubtedly lead to higher repair costs.
A DA-led Gauteng provincial government would ensure that only competent contractors with a reputable track record are appointed. We will ensure that work done by contractors is of the required standard before signing off the job cards. This allows contractors to address and correct any unsatisfactory work.
The DA Gauteng is dedicated to providing dignified housing opportunities to Gauteng residents. The DA Gauteng offers its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased in the Montrose tragedies.