Bloemfontein:The Ministry of Human Settlements has firmly rejected reports claiming that housing units constructed by the Free State Provincial Department of Human Settlements cost as much as R3.6 million each.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Ministry described these claims as baseless and factually incorrect, affirming that no individual housing unit in the projects under scrutiny cost R3.6 million. The reports originated from a Parliamentary inquiry directed at Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane concerning blocked housing projects in the Free State, including sites in Bloemfontein and Welkom.
The Ministry highlighted the absence of verified facts or evidence to support claims of housing units costing over R3 million. It acknowledged challenges in housing delivery due to stalled projects that have deprived beneficiaries of their constitutional right to adequate housing. The delays have also led to cost escalations, increasing financial strain on public resources.
The Ministry confirmed that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, is investigating the projects for any potential irregularities. Allegations of irregular expenditure and mismanagement of public funds are taken very seriously, and the Ministry urged the public and media to rely on verified information.
The Ministry remains committed to accelerating housing delivery and ensuring accountability for the delays and cost escalations. It pledged to hold accountable any individuals found responsible for these challenges and to protect public resources while ensuring beneficiaries receive their homes.