The Johannesburg Property Company (JPC), responsible for overseeing the city’s property portfolio worth R8,7 billion, has come under scrutiny for appointing unqualified and politically connected individuals to its board. This move has raised concerns about the management and maintenance of the city’s properties, some of which have recently burned down.
One of the most alarming aspects of this appointment is the inclusion of individuals with no qualifications. It is reported that one board member does not even have a matric qualification. This raises questions about the competency and expertise of the board in making decisions regarding the city’s valuable property assets.
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Furthermore, it is alleged that these appointments are politically motivated, with the board members being personally and politically connected to African National Congress (ANC) MMC for economic development Nomoya Mnisi. Mnisi oversees the JPC and has been accused of appointing individuals from her ANC branch in Soweto and the West Rand to the board.
The Consequences of Incompetence
The appointment of unqualified and politically connected individuals to oversee the city’s property portfolio has serious consequences for the residents of Johannesburg. The JPC is struggling to effectively run and maintain its properties, resulting in a number of buildings falling into the hands of slumlords. These slumlords illegally collect rent from vulnerable occupants, further exacerbating the housing crisis in the city.
In recent months, several properties under the JPC’s jurisdiction have burned down, raising concerns about the lack of proper maintenance and safety measures. The appointment of individuals without the necessary qualifications and expertise only serves to worsen these issues.
A Question of Ethics
Not only are these appointments alarming due to the lack of qualifications and political connections, but there are also ethical concerns surrounding the actions of some board members. Reports have revealed that Rachel Rakodi, a board member with only a Grade 11 qualification, allegedly instructed the JPC to settle an R800 000 bill incurred by the ANC Youth League at a Sandton hotel in July.
This raises questions about the integrity and impartiality of the board members. It is essential that those responsible for overseeing the city’s property portfolio act in the best interests of the residents and not succumb to political pressure or personal gain.
A Call for Accountability
The revelations surrounding the JPC board appointments have sparked outrage and calls for accountability. It is crucial that the City of Joburg takes immediate action to address these concerns and ensure that qualified and competent individuals are appointed to oversee the city’s valuable property assets.
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Additionally, there needs to be a thorough investigation into the alleged unethical behaviour of certain board members. Transparency and accountability are essential in order to restore public trust and confidence in the management of the city’s property portfolio.
Conclusion
The appointment of unqualified and politically connected individuals to the JPC board is deeply concerning. It not only raises questions about the competency and expertise of the board, but also highlights ethical concerns and the potential for personal and political gain to influence decision-making.
The City of Joburg must take swift action to rectify this situation and ensure that qualified individuals are appointed to oversee the city’s property portfolio. The residents of Johannesburg deserve competent and ethical leadership in the management of their valuable property assets.
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