Locals comment on court ruling for VIP Protection Policy for CoJ officials
Residents shared their views on whether enhanced VIP protection for officials was justified or an unnecessary use of public funds.
After the high court ruled the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) VIP Risk Management Policy unconstitutional and unlawful, Soweto Urban hit the streets to gather opinions from locals.
The court’s decision, coupled with Mayor Dada Morero’s spokesperson Chris Vondo confirming the city will not appeal in the interest of transparency, has sparked diverse reactions.
Residents shared their views on whether enhanced VIP protection for officials was justified or an unnecessary use of public funds.
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Given Madia
“I oppose increased protection for the CoJ officials; it is unnecessary and unfair to cash-strapped taxpayers.
“I suggest redirecting funds towards critical issues like youth unemployment, infrastructure development, education, and addressing the living conditions in informal settlements.
“I question the justification for heightened security; it is a potential misuse of public funds and highlights the city’s struggles with corruption and neglect of its responsibilities, such as ensuring safety and cleanliness in the Johannesburg CBD.”
Asemahle Cwayela
“We cannot allow good governance to go out the window and watch millions being spent on VIP protection while there is barely enough money for service delivery like water, electricity infrastructure protection, and roads maintenance.”
Sibusiso Ndaba
“With the high crime rate in a country like ours, politicians deserve extra protection.
“This will enable them to execute their roles without fear. However, the budget and expenditure should be disclosed to the public if such protection is provided.”
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Karabo Willie Paneng
“I strongly believe the people who need protection the most are Johannesburg residents still battling access to basic needs such as water and uninterrupted electricity.
“The city should consider using the money allocated for this policy to restore the dignity of its residents so that they can live stress-free lives because, at the moment, we live in stressful conditions.”
