The City of Johannesburg’s public spaces exist for the benefit of residents, not criminal networks, unlawful occupation or the collapse of governance.
Following a joint oversight inspection at Golden Harvest Park in Ward 101, we are deeply concerned by what we found. Instead of a safe recreational space for families, residents are confronting increasing criminality, unlawful occupation of public land, illegal utility connections and the apparent growth of informal structures with little or no visible enforcement.
Residents who engaged with us spoke openly about frequent muggings, robberies and intimidation inside the park. Many told us they no longer feel safe using a facility that should be one of Johannesburg’s premier public open spaces.
Equally disturbing were allegations that some occupied properties are being rented out for approximately R1,500 per month by individuals who have no lawful authority to do so. These allegations, together with information gathered during the oversight visit, warrant a thorough investigation by the relevant law enforcement agencies. Any person found to be profiting from the unlawful occupation of public land must face the full consequences of the law.
We also observed what appears to be widespread illegal electricity and water connections. These practices deprive the City of much-needed revenue, place additional pressure on already strained infrastructure and create serious safety risks.
One of the most alarming developments is the apparent emergence of an alternative authority structure within parts of the park. During our visit, we were informed that access to certain areas required permission from an individual described as the local “Induna”. No public park should operate under parallel systems of authority.
While legitimate business activity has an important place in our city, questions must also be answered about commercial operations within the park. Residents deserve transparency regarding the approvals under which these businesses operate and why lawful businesses appear able to function while illegal occupation, criminality and by-law violations continue unchecked around them.
The concerns raised by residents also point to a broader failure of local governance. Communities have repeatedly raised these issues, yet little appears to have changed.
We will formally request:
- A coordinated operation involving JMPD, SAPS, Home Affairs, City Power, Johannesburg Water and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo.
- A comprehensive report from the Johannesburg Property Company.
- An investigation into allegations of unlawful rental income.
- The removal of illegal electricity and water connections.
- An audit of unlawful structures and enforcement of by-laws.
- Increased law enforcement visibility.
- An investigation into governance failures that have allowed these conditions to persist.
Johannesburg’s parks belong to its residents. They should be safe, accessible and governed by the rule of law. We will continue to exercise oversight and insist on decisive action.
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