Riyaz Patel
Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance Obed Bapela has told the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) inquiry into Alexandra that some R20bn is needed to turn the township into a modern habitable settlement.
He added that the process to renew and improve living conditions for the people of Alexandra would take 15-20 years.
The SAHRC inquiry is also probing possible maladministration in the controversial multimillion-rand Alex Renewal Project.
President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed an inter-ministerial task team during the Alexandra flare up in April, when angry residents barricaded roads with burning tyres and rocks demanding better service delivery.
The demolition of around 80 illegally-built homes around the same time by the so-called Red Ants added to the volatile situation.
Matters were not helped by political expediency as DA Mayor Herman Mashaba claimed his office knew nothing of the demolition order, and promptly promised to rebuild the destroyed structures at
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
