Ramaphosa: State of Joburg is appalling, vows rejuvenation ahead of G20

By Simon Nare

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described Johannesburg as a city that has been neglected for far too long and is now crying out for rejuvenation.

Speaking at a meeting between the national executive and Johannesburg’s executive council, Ramaphosa said that the city, once a beacon of prosperity, could no longer be left to deteriorate.

He called for immediate action to restore Johannesburg to its former glory.

“This city is crying out and crying out for rejuvenation. It is a painful sight to go through the center of the city and to see what it has deteriorated into. It is possible. It is doable,” he said.

“Johannesburg must be renovated and its glory restored. Turnaround time has now come.”

Ramaphosa pointed out hijacked buildings which he said were not paying rates and taxes.

He said those buildings should be taken back and if necessary, the new Expropriation Act could