The opaque processes surrounding the allocation of flats at the Jika Joe Community Residential Units (CRUs), especially in light of recent allegations of corruption in the allocation and occupation of the flats raises alarm.
The DA had previously submitted a PAIA (Promotion of Access to Information Act) application to Msunduzi Municipality to obtain the Jika Joe CRU housing list, which is essential in verifying that the allocation of these units is being done fairly and to those most in need. The request was however rejected by the municipality, and to this day, there remains a disturbing lack of transparency concerning the occupants of these units.
As anticipated, damning allegations have surfaced, suggesting that individuals from outside the province, as well as professionals who do not meet the financial criteria for these units, are currently occupying the Jika Joe CRUs. Even more concerning are claims that municipal officials themselves are among the residents, and that these units are being sub-let by the original occupants. The reality is that there are thousands of desperate families and individuals in the city whose housing needs should be the top priority and who should have been accommodated. These individuals and families have once again been side-lined. These allegations are not surprising under the ANC-led Msunduzi’s watch. Once again, this housing mess caused by the municipality will be at the expense of the poorest and most deserving of our society and will further exacerbate land grabs and the construction of structures on flood plains and in other dangerous and unsuitable locations.
It is unacceptable and deeply concerning that the Msunduzi Municipality has, despite the historic examples of housing corruption and mismanagement in the city, chosen to withhold the housing list from public scrutiny. This lack of transparency not only undermines the principles of accountable governance but also deprives many deserving individuals of their right to adequate housing.
As a response, the DA is committed to taking decisive steps to ensure transparency. We have engaged with our Provincial Human Settlements Spokesperson, Marlaine Nair, to pursue transparency and accountability around the allocation and occupation of the Jika Joe CRUs.
The residents of Msunduzi deserve a government that is caring, accountable, and transparent – basic principles of governance that have been sorely absent during the ANC-led tenure of the city.
The 2024 election presents a crucial opportunity to bring about the sorely needed change in our capital city. A vote for the DA is a vote for a government that will uphold these values and work to eradicate corruption and promote fairness in housing allocation. We can and must build a South Africa where every citizen is treated with fairness and dignity.