Residents of the “Dark City” settlement, formerly a hostel for labourers in Bloemfontein, are truly in the dark about “missing millions” in the wake of the Free State Department of Human Settlements (FSDHS) reportedly paying companies R255 million for the removal of asbestos roofs to improve residents’ lives.
The “asbestos roof missing millions” is a topic many ordinary occupants avoid talking about at all costs.
This was evident during Express’ engagement with residents to get their views on Thursday (27/07).
While some in Dark City do whisper about this, others express fear of intimidation.
The only consolation residents have is that various individuals are facing criminal charges and are due to stand trial regarding the R255 million. Thus far, one of 16 accused of playing a part in the fraudulent asbestos tender scheme involving the FSDHS has been convicted.
The Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court sentenced Abel Khotso Manyike (41) and his company, ORI Group (Pty) Ltd, on 18 July. The company was found guilty on eight counts of tax evasion and sentenced to a fine of R30 000, which is wholly suspended for a period of five years.
Manyike, as director of the illegal company, was found guilty on four counts of tax evasion. He was sentenced to a fine of R15 000 or two years’ imprisonment, which is wholly suspended for a period of five years.
During Express’ visit to Dark City, Thiwe Ntlabathi (57) said she did not have much hope of seeing asbestos roofs replaced.
“Removing an asbestos roof is just talk by the so-called collective. What is certain is that we, the occupants, continue to live our lives in houses with asbestos roofs and in deteriorating conditions. I have lost some family members who were diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB),” said Ntlabathi.
She has lived in the same residence since the 1980s, and inherited the property from her late parents, Maria and James Ntlabathi. She said her father had been a labourer. She now stays with her grandchild.
Another occupant, Tsholofelo Sam (40), said she had no hope of seeing a new roof over her head anytime soon.
“This is just talk, not a real promise,” said Sam.
“Come election time, part of the campaigns we will hear will have the removal of asbestos roofs thrown in the mix. After elections there is deafening silence.”
Also unemployed, Sam said she had survived TB.
“In 2017 I experienced health problems and doctors discovered I had symptoms of spinal TB.
“I then underwent surgery, and following that I could not work anymore. Medical practitioners informed me that asbestos was the cause of my health problem.”
