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The DA Caucus in Johannesburg notes with concern the disaster management response from the City Manager in the visible absence of Executive Mayor and his MMC’s.

We especially note with concern the City Manager’s situational analysis and the comments that City engineers and specialists from different City entities have made.

Bearing yesterday’s WhatsApp procurement message, that promised a contract with the city in one hour in mind, we will be launching an enquiry into the procurement processes used to appoint companies for the repair of the JHB CBD explosion. The City has an Emergency procurement panel, and we have already implored them to make use of vetted companies that form part of the panel. This crisis cannot be an excuse for rampant corruption.

The City Manager’s comments that the buildings alongside the area of the explosion have been checked and no structural defects were found and that the air quality was of a safe nature also come came alarmingly fast. The DA Councillors in the City are requesting Structural Engineer reports and Environmental Health Practitioners reports with regards to the above statements – no stone can be left unturned in keeping the people of Johannesburg safe.

Whilst we welcome the swift action of by the City Manager. We implore him to take special notice of the following:
- Joburg Water Tanker Deployment – A Detailed deployment plan is needed to avoid a stampede for water and an exact mobile ablution facilities plan is also required.
- Similarly, a detailed Road Closure Plan is required so that residents who use the CBD as a transit point can effectively plan around closures and diversions.

The DA City of Johannesburg Shadow Cabinet have been on the ground and will continue to monitor and provide oversight to ensure that all residents get the services and help so desperately needed.

Issued by Cllr Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku - Caucus Leader