By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has discovered that the deterioration of the structure and living conditions at Madala Hostel in Alexandra has accelerated since their last visit six months ago.
DA member of parliament and Gauteng Shadow MEC for Human Settlements, Mervyn Cirota said they were met with the wrenching stench of accumulated sewerage, blocked drains, and heaps of rubbish during the oversight inspections.
Cirota accused the Provincial Government and the City of Johannesburg of abandoning the residents.
“Furthermore, the hostel is in a state of disrepair. The windows are broken, and the ceiling on the one section that was destroyed by fire some years ago remains in a state of disrepair.
“It is disappointing that the temporary structures adjacent to the hostel are complete and standing empty.
“It is unacceptable that our residents are forced to live in these conditions while temporary containers to house them have been standing empty for the last five years,” he said.
Cirota said the DA demands immediate intervention from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to “improve the living conditions at the Madala hostel”.
“We will also table questions in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) to determine plans that the provincial government has in place to improve the living conditions of these neglected residents.
“The DA has a plan to ensure access to dignified housing for all Gauteng residents desperate for housing and ensure that they have access to basic services. This can only happen by voting for the DA in next year’s general elections,” said Cirota.
