The Democratic Alliance (DA) has vowed to report what it describes as a “potentially corrupt” R24 million toilet construction project in Emfuleni to law enforcement agencies following an oversight inspection conducted on the controversial structures.
According to DA Emfuleni Mayoral Candidate and Gauteng MPL, Kingsol Chabalala, the oversight visit revealed severe deterioration and poor conditions at the 30 toilet structures built by the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements together with the Emfuleni Local Municipality in 2024.
Speaking after the inspection, Chabalala said the project raises serious concerns about financial mismanagement and the possible misuse of public funds.
R815 000 Per Toilet
The DA claims each toilet structure cost approximately R815 000, bringing the total project expenditure to more than R24 million.
However, despite the massive investment, many of the toilets are reportedly already in a state of disrepair, prompting questions about the quality of workmanship and how taxpayer money was spent.
“The money meant for toilets may have been misappropriated,” Chabalala said.
He further accused the ANC-led municipality of prioritising corruption and looting over service delivery while residents continue to struggle with failing infrastructure and poor living conditions.
Service Delivery Crisis in Emfuleni
Residents across Emfuleni have long complained about ongoing service delivery failures, including water shortages, sewage spills, poor road conditions, and deteriorating municipal infrastructure.
The DA argues that the toilet project reflects deeper governance problems within the municipality.
“Even in the midst of serious service delivery challenges, the government has chosen to potentially steal R24 million under the misleading pretext of bringing services to residents,” Chabalala said.
He added that the situation demonstrates a “blatant lack of care” for the people of Emfuleni.
DA Plans Legal Action
The party says it will formally report the matter to relevant law enforcement agencies in an effort to hold those responsible accountable.
The DA also reaffirmed its commitment to fighting for improved and sustainable service delivery for residents in Emfuleni.
“We will continue fighting for residents to ensure service delivery that is sustainable, sufficient, and in the best interests of the community,” Chabalala concluded.
