DURBAN - Human Settlements and Public Works MEC Jomo Sibiya has hit back at the IFP’s criticism for the proposed building of a government precinct that would house a new legislature.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Sibiya defended the project, hailing it as a “catalyst for socio-economic development” after the IFP had announced during a media briefing that it was considering a court challenge to halt the project.
He said it should be expected and appreciated that the IFP, as an opposition political party, would always oppose any programme championed by the governing party, the ANC, which was part of democracy that was ushered in 1994.
“We wish to state that as the Department of Public Works, we appreciate guidance from all leaders of society, captains of industry and the public as we execute our work of the roll-out of socio-economic infrastructure.
“We remain focused on creating job opportunities for the unemployed and marginalised members of society,” Sibiya said.
“The ANC has identified government infrastructure as one of the most important sectors in ensuring economic recovery and job creation.
“It is for these reasons that the department’s investments in social infrastructure are packaged in such a way that we grow the economy of the province for the benefit of ordinary members of society,” said Sibiya.
The MEC said the projected total cost of paying rent for government offices over the next 20 years was R5 865 billion, while building the government precinct would cost R6 871bn with a market value of R11bn after construction.
At the media briefing on Tuesday, party president Velenkosini Hlabisa said building a government precinct was a “waste of taxpayers’ money since there was the old legislature building in Ulundi which could be used”.
Hlabisa said his party would raise the matter in the legislature and ask for the resolution of the house, and a lawsuit would be the last resort.
Daily News