‘We’ve been neglected’: Katlehong hostel residents fed up with govt’s empty promises
Residents have said they have yet to benefit from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s stated plans to improve hostels.
FILE: Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi speaking at the launch of the Mayibuye Primary School in Tembisa on 7 February 2024. Picture: X/EducationGP1
JOHANNESBURG - Residents at a hostel in Katlehong, on the East Rand, said they were tired of empty government promises.
There is no water and electricity in the area, and crime is rampant.
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Improving hostels has been one of Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s goals since he started the job two years ago, but residents in the Mazibuko, Kwesine, and NPC hostels said they’re yet to benefit from his plans.
During his maiden State of the Province Address (SOPA), Lesufi said that being someone who grew up in a hostel, he understood the needs of hostel residents.
But the collapsing ceilings, broken doors, and poor service delivery at the NPC hostel in Katlehong has left residents wondering whether rehabilitating their homes was among the government’s priorities.
"We are going to vote because it’s a democratic practice, not because we believe our lives will be improved - that’s probably not going to happen," said one resident.
"We have been neglected. I don’t know why we’re left to suffer like this," lamented another.
They said gunshots and violence became a regular occurrence at the NPC hostel.