Lesufi urged to ensure CoJ acts on recommendations of inquiry into hijacked buildings

JOHANNESBURG - There are calls for Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to ensure the City of Johannesburg acts on the recommendations of the commission of inquiry into hijacked buildings in the CBD.

The commission was set up to investigate both the Usindiso building fire, which claimed 76 lives, and the illegal occupation of properties in the city.

Its findings concluded the city must take a degree of responsibility for the widespread hijacking of buildings, citing its failure to enforce by-laws.

Director of research and advocacy at SERI, Lauren Royston, said that implementing the commission’s recommendations was essential to curb the crisis.

"We are also saying can we please focus on implementation, because part one of the report had important recommendations that hadn’t been implemented. As a result, we think the premier has an important role to play. The Presidency and the national department of human settlements need to support the City of Johannesburg," said Royston.