Gauteng govt claims progress in reversing illegal occupation of buildings in Joburg CBD

JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng government claims it is beginning to turn the tide against the illegal occupation of buildings in the inner city of Joburg.
 
Premier Panyaza Lesufi was speaking at a media briefing in Midrand on Wednesday, where he provided a report on his government’s first 100 days in office.
 
He said that government was set to hold a summit with potential investors to convince them to invest in the city centre of Joburg.
 
The City of Joburg estimates that there are over 180 hijacked buildings in the inner city, including some owned by the city.
 
The commission of inquiry into the Usindiso Building fire is investigating who should be held responsible for the prevalence of hijacked properties in the area.
 
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced that the commission was expected to release its findings and recommendations in January next year.
 
"We want to congratulate the Johannesburg municipality for successfully winning a court judgment to reclaim 12 hijacked buildings in the CBD as part of our resolve to clean up the CBD."
 
Lesufi said that revitalising the Johannesburg CBD, including addressing the issue of hijacked buildings, was a key priority for the government of provincial unity.