Marking 100 days before South Africans head to the polls, the Democratic Alliance supporters had the opportunity to interact with the party’s mayoral candidate, Herman Mashaba.
On 25 April, some members of the DA gathered at Rosebank Primary School to hear what Mashaba will change in Johannesburg should his party win the Metro on 3 August.
Kicking off proceedings, DA Member of Parliament, Ian Ollis, who was also the emcee for the day, showed before and after pictures of flats that were revamped in the inner CBD of Johannesburg. He pointed out that property developers can turn Joburg around if the City of Joburg assisted, but highlighted that some of the billing problems hampered developers.
Taking the stand, Mashaba promised that if he takes office in the City of Johannesburg, he will bring a lot of changes that will move the city forward. He said he is ready to lead a government that listens to the concerns of the people. He added that he doesn’t want to be mayor for the sake of holding office but because he wants to serve Joburg and turn it into the great city it should be.
“Laws that hinder business and create red tape will be reviewed in the first 100 days of our administration,” he promised.
Showing a firm stand against corruption, Mashaba mentioned that he will make corruption his biggest enemy. Mashaba said taxpayers’ money should not be seen as the government’s because that’s what will make it disappear. He said this money must be seen as the people’s money. “It will be protected from thieves who want to spend the money on themselves,” said Mashaba.
He added that they will also curb corruption within the Johannesburg Metro Police Department by establishing an integrity unit which will be accountable to the mayor and council.
Public transport also got a mention. The mayor-hopeful said he will ensure that an integrated ticketing system is put in place and residents will be able to use one ticket across all modes of public transport.
Youth employment is also on Mashaba’s agenda. He said the unemployment rate among young people was too high. “Jobs are not created at the needed speed. One in three young people are unemployed,” shared Mashaba.
Some of those who attended the meeting left hopeful. Ntombu Msiza said she was glad to hear that Mashaba will address housing issues in Johannesburg.
Allan Thompson said he had faith in Mashaba and believes that he will move the city forward. “With all the plans that Mashaba has, Joburg will definitely be the best city to live in.”
Mashaba urged those in attendance to vote wisely on 3 August and make sure that the DA rules and takes over the City of Johannesburg.
