The DA in Johannesburg has laid criminal charges of culpable homicide against Helen Botes, the CEO of Johannesburg Property Company (JPC).
This comes after a tragic fire incident at the Usindiso Building at 80 Albert Street in the city centre on August 31, 2023, which resulted in 77 fatalities.
Nicole Rahn, the DA’s Johannesburg caucus chief whip, said the charges are based on serious negligence and failure to act, which allegedly led to the deaths in the city-owned building.
“This was not an unforeseeable disaster. The building was illegally occupied and structurally unsafe for years. Despite repeated warnings, no action was taken, and 77 lives were lost as a result,” said Rahn.
She said the Khampepe Commission, which investigated the incident, confirmed that the City of Johannesburg and the JPC did not meet their constitutional responsibilities to protect lives, dignity, and safety.
The report points to a lack of leadership and failure to maintain city-owned buildings, which had become dangerous.
The commission, she said, also recommended disciplinary action against officials in the city, JPC, and other bodies.
Commission’s recommendations ignored
However, Rahn believes that the City of Johannesburg has not acted on these recommendations.
“Ms Botes, as the accounting officer of JPC, had the authority and responsibility to act, and [she] didn’t. She sat on this information for four years.
“That level of negligence cannot be brushed aside. It must be tested in a court of law. Accountability cannot continue to be optional in South Africa,” said Rahn.
She also raised concerns about the R27-million allegedly spent on emergency housing for the survivors of the blaze.
Rahn claims that the quality of the accommodation does not match the money spent and called on the police to investigate thoroughly.
She also called for the case to be handed over to the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority.
“The DA will not rest until justice is served for the 77 lives lost, their families, and the integrity of our city.
“We believe in a government that is transparent, accountable, and compassionate. We cannot allow this tragedy to be swept under the rug.”
