The denial by the ANC in Johannesburg that the billing system is a disaster is a typical example of what I call  "Ostrich syndrome". Over the past days we have seen conflicting media reports by the ANC with regards to the billing situation in Johannesburg. Amos Masondo, Mayor of Johannesburg and  Councillor Strike Ralegoma, a member of the Mayoral Committee, have been denying that the billing system is in chaos.

At the same time, Co-operative Governance Minister Secelo Shiceka (who himself had been a victim of incorrect billing when living in Johannesburg) has expressed his concern about the matter, which is quite comical.

If there is no problem, why is the Minister calling a summit of all the Mayors in the province to deal with the mess? It is about time the ANC government in the City of Johannesburg lift their heads out of the sand and see the facts for what they are. The billing fiasco is a not a problem it is a crisis.

In the City of Cape Town the DA is in control of the billing process and we appoint competent people who are able to do the job. Should the need arise we appoint contractors or consultants on merit and in terms of prudent tender processes. I say to the Mayor you are failing the citizens of Johannesburg, and I say to the citizens of Johannesburg: you get the government you vote for.

John C Moodey MPL, is Leader of the Democratic Alliance in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature

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