Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has taken his words back after receiving criticism following his comments that they would prioritise fixing roads for G20.
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has made a u-turn on statements committing to prioritise patching potholes and fixing malfunctioning traffic lights ahead of the G20, saying it was "wrong choice of language."
Speaking at the Clement Manyathela Show on Tuesday, Morero corrected his statement and said their Lekgotla gave them a mandate on what programmes they should focus on.
"In the Lekgotla, we have said we are focusing on the inner city rejuvenation, by-law enforcement and service delivery," he said.
According to Morero, the service delivery included road, water, and electricity infrastructures across the city.
Addressing the local government leg of G20, Morero said they have set aside plans to directly deal with the dire state of Johannesburg.
"We have prioritised certain routes within Johannesburg which are G20 routes to ensure that at least we can make them to be at the standard they should be... No potholes, no traffic signals that are not working, so we are focusing on that.
"But we are generally focusing on the infrastructure issue," he said.
Morero has faced criticism for his recent comments, with many residents expressing concerns about his administration's approach to service delivery.
Community members have voiced frustration regarding the perceived inequities in policies during his leadership. Similar issues with service delivery have been noted during significant events in Gauteng, as evidenced by the recent G20 foreign ministers meeting in Johannesburg.
The City of Tshwane, led by Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya, alongside the City of Johannesburg, is set to co-host an upcoming summit for mayors from G20 cities.
The event will focus on formulating policy recommendations aimed at tackling critical global challenges, including climate resilience, economic recovery, and social equity.
The summit promises to be a significant platform for advocating tangible actions and fostering collaboration on these urgent issues.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
IOL Politics
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