Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has stated that the South African government is not obligated to provide housing for illegal immigrants residing in hijacked buildings. Ntshavheni’s remarks came in response to inquiries regarding a tragic fire in Johannesburg that claimed the lives of at least 73 individuals. Addressing concerns during a post-cabinet briefing in Pretoria, Ntshavheni clarified that the nation does not confront a housing crisis.
When questioned about the government’s approach to hijacked buildings within city centers, Ntshavheni emphasized the significance of human lives lost in such incidents, regardless of the building’s status. The tragic fire occurred in a building located at the intersection of Delvers and Albert streets in Johannesburg’s city center, leading to multiple casualties and injuries.
Ntshavheni noted that President Cyril Ramaphosa is aware of the situation and that the national government is prepared to support the Gauteng province as needed. While acknowledging the challenges in hijacked buildings such as lack of essential services, she refrained from speculating on the fire’s cause. Ntshavheni dismissed the notion that the fire signaled a housing problem, pointing out that most occupants of hijacked buildings are not South African citizens and lack legal status. Consequently, the government cannot offer housing to illegal immigrants.
Ntshavheni highlighted ongoing collaboration between the Minister of Human Settlements and local governments to provide housing for lawful South African residents. She clarified that responsibility for buildings falls on metropolitan governments, local municipalities, and respective provinces. The national government’s role is to support relevant departments, including human settlements and co-operative governance. In the case of immigration matters, the Department of Home Affairs oversees the situation, while the police assist in addressing crime-ridden hijacked buildings.
In conclusion, Ntshavheni stressed that the government’s focus remains on aiding legal residents and supporting efforts to combat crime in hijacked buildings.
Sources: https://twitter.com/TimesLIVE/status/1697219499672396257?t=j176PK2juRw2imhZBdSKcA&s=19
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