Usindiso building inquiry suggests structure be demolished
The commission released the first part of its report on Sunday, following its work into the blaze that killed 77 people last year.
Emergency workers at the scene of the deadly Joburg CBD fire that claimed over 70 lives on 31 August 2023. Picture: GCIS
JOHANNESBURG - The commission of inquiry looking into the deadly Usindiso building fire has recommended the structure in Marshalltown be demolished by the City of Johannesburg.
The commission released the first part of its report on Sunday, following its work into the blaze that killed 77 people last year.
It found that the city and the Johannesburg Property Company should be held partially liable for the tragedy.
It says the building was never built for residential purposes and should have been demolished years ago.
The commission of inquiry into the Usindiso building fire says the property should be demolished as soon as possible to prevent its further occupation
It has placed part of the blame on the City of Johannesburg and some of its entities, for failing to provide basic services in the area.
The commission's Sisi Khampepe says an independent process needs to be undertaken to identify individuals in the city to hold personally accountable.
Meanwhile, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has accepted the recommendations and will engage with the metro's executives.
"And I think they would need time to study the report and on the basis of that we'll establish a joint implementation committee."
Lesufi says he's proud of the work done by the commission so far and looks forward to the final report at the end of August.