THABONG – An immediate independent investigation into the management of public housing funds by the Free State Department of Human Settlements must be prioritised.

Following an onsite visit by the department of Human Settlements in Welkom, the DA has called for an investigation citing concerns over escalating project costs, delays, and incomplete infrastructure.

Several housing developments across the province have experienced significant cost increases while communities continue to wait for homes.

Among the projects highlighted is the G-Hostel development in Thabong, Welkom. Vista has over the years, on many ocassions, reported on this develpment that has cost more than R608 million – almost three times its original budget. Despite the expenditure, the project is reportedly only 67% complete.

According to the DA, hundreds of completed units remain unoccupied because essential sewerage and electricity infrastructure has not been provided. A further R401 million has reportedly been requested to complete the outstanding work. The DA said the priority should be ensuring that public housing funds result in completed, habitable homes for communities.

“Public housing must build homes, not enrich the politically connected,” the party said.

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