GAUTENG PREMIER'S HOUSE MUST BE SOLD

Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokontane's official residence in Bryanston should be sold as it is costing an exorbitant amount in repairs and refurbishment

It is outrageous that R7.5 million is budgeted over the next three years to maintain this house.

This is on top of the R13.5 million spent on it since it was bought in March 2004 for R11.5 million.

Why has it cost more to repair than it was bought for?

I am deeply suspicious that we have grossly overpaid for work on this house. Last year I referred this matter to the Public Protector for investigation (see correspondence below).

Gauteng Infrastructure Development MEC Qedani Mahlangu, in an official reply to my questions in the Gauteng Legislature, has refused to give me the names of the companies that have refurbished the house.

She has also refused to give details of how they were chosen for this work.

I will submit an application under the Promotion of Access to Information Act to get further information.

The DA believes that there is no need to have an official residence as we managed to do without one for ten years, from 1994 to 2004.

It should be sold off as soon as possible, with the proceeds used to benefit the people of Gauteng.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom MPL, DA Gauteng Caucus Leader, March 7 2013

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