Johannesburg City funds should go to services, NOT councillor's VIP security – DA

Africa Melane speaks with Councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA Johannesburg caucus leader.

Listen to the interview in the audio below.

The City of Johannesburg (COJ) has introduced a policy which will grant sophisticated security to all councillors, similar to that of the mayor, says the caucus leader.

However, the DA in Johannesburg is concerned about the costs associated with providing VIP security to all municipal councillors.

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Kayser-Echeozonjoku argues these funds should go towards service delivery, instead of spending more on public officials.

“Money should be spent on services and not on individuals serving the residents.”

- Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA Johannesburg caucus leader

“There are about 270 councillors in the City of Johannesburg council. The cost implications would be huge.”

 - Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA Johannesburg caucus leader

She suggests the new policy could spark protests and riots, which would pose a threat to councillors.

If service delivery were to be improved, residents wouldn't be so frustrated and prompted to lash out, she adds.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.