77 Dead, No Accountability: DA Lays Charges in Joburg Fire Tragedy

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has taken a bold legal step in response to the 2023 Usindiso Building fire that killed 77 people in Johannesburg. The party has filed criminal charges of culpable homicide against Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) CEO Helen Botes, accusing her of gross negligence that allegedly led to the tragedy.

DA Johannesburg Chief Whip Nicole Rahn said the party believes Botes failed in her duty as the accounting officer of JPC, allowing the city-owned building at 80 Albert Street to fall into dangerous disrepair despite repeated warnings.

The DA wants the South African Police Service to investigate the matter thoroughly and has asked that it be escalated to the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority.

“This was not an unforeseeable disaster,” Rahn said. “The building was illegally occupied and structurally unsafe for years. Despite repeated warnings, no action was taken – 77 lives were lost as a result.”

Negligence and Inaction

Rahn referred to the findings of the Khampepe Commission, released in March, which concluded that both the City of Johannesburg and the JPC failed to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities to protect life and dignity.

The report found a breakdown in enforcement and oversight, stating, “Enforcement was neglected, leadership was absent.” It described how multiple city-owned buildings had deteriorated into dangerous and deadly conditions.

Although the report recommended disciplinary measures for responsible officials in the City and the JPC, Rahn said no action had been taken to date. She emphasised that Botes held the power and responsibility to act—and chose not to.

“She sat on this information for four years,” Rahn added. “That level of negligence cannot be brushed aside. It must be tested in a court of law. Accountability cannot continue to be optional in South Africa.”

Emergency Funds and Poor Conditions

Rahn also raised concerns over the R27 million spent on emergency accommodation for fire survivors, suggesting the quality of housing provided was substandard and unfit for purpose.

“We believe in a government that is transparent, accountable, and compassionate,” she said. “We cannot allow this tragedy to be swept under the rug.”

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Sourced:Polity

Picture: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images