MINISTER of Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala has appointed a Commission of Enquiry to investigate the affairs of the Hlatikulu Town Board, including the illegal occupation of government land located in the town.
The four-member commission, chaired by Deputy Attorney General Zandile Dhlamini, has been given a month to conclude its investigation.
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Maphalala said several issues had emerged from the town, some raised by the public, residents, and the local authority.
He said this was why the ministry decided to establish the commission so as to thoroughly investigate the many concerns.
He highlighted three key issues to be addressed by the commission; the illegal occupation of government land, financial management and the general governance of the town.
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“The town still has a significant amount of land owned by government, yet some people are allegedly occupying it without following proper procedures,” the minister said. He added that the ministry was also concerned about development control and compliance, which are essential to maintaining order in urban areas.
“The commission will investigate these and other issues, and we expect them to report back within a month,” he said.
Maphalala stated that the ministry would be strict about the commission’s deliverables, expecting a report detailing its findings, the investigation process, and recommendations for government action going forward.
“We have a parental responsibility to develop every local authority. While we do not tolerate negligence, we remain committed to our duty of developing local authorities. This commission will help us identify areas that need fixing so the town can reach its full potential and contribute to the economy,” he said.
He encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist the commission.
“The commission has both a chairperson and a secretary, which makes it easy for the public to approach them. Some individuals will also be called to provide information,” he said.
The minister explained that commissions of enquiry carry legal weight similar to that of the courts. He said he hoped the public would engage with the process to help restore proper governance in the town. “The commission will announce how people can submit information. Those who wish to be part of the investigation will need to register to ensure order and coordination. The commission already has clues and leads that will form the basis of the enquiry,” he said.
Members of the Commission:
1. Zandile Dhlamini – Chairperson, Deputy Attorney General
2. Fikile Dlamini – Former legal advisor at the ministry
3. Gideon Mhlongo
4. Buhle Makhubu – Secretary, independent consultant.
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