Joburg MMC's tough stance on foreigner settlements

"Statement is not about politicising service delivery but about accountability

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

MLUNGISI Mabaso, the Johannesburg MMC for Human Settlements from the IFP, recently announced that his department will not use South African taxpayers' money to service informal settlements primarily occupied by foreign nationals.

This decision has been characterised by a political analyst as a “vote of no confidence” in the government.

Mabaso stated in a viral video that his department will not use taxpayer money to service informal settlements with over 10 000 foreign nationals, adding that services might be provided only after he leaves office.

“If it's more than 10000 foreign nationals, we take the money of South African taxpayers and go to service foreign nationals in informal settlements - I said that is not going to happen.

“That will happen while there’s another MMC, because I will also not stay in these positions forever. I will be removed one day, and that’s when they will get the services - but not while I am still the MMC”

Political analyst Kenneth Mokgatlhe described Mabaso’s remarks as a clear “vote of no confidence” in the government, highlighting its failure to manage rising levels of illegal immigration in South Africa. He noted that the increasing number of undocumented foreigners not only presents a security concern but also places additional strain on services intended for citizens.

“The growing number of illegal or undocumented foreigners not only poses a security threat, but it also overburdens the service delivery meant for citizens,” he said.