Gauteng Mec Dismisses Claims That The Province Is Bankrupt

Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile has dismissed reports suggesting that the province is nearing bankruptcy.

Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Maile acknowledges the financial strain caused by the e-toll debt but assures that the province's finances and service delivery remain stable.

In September 2024, Gauteng made its first payment of R3.2 billion towards the R20.1 billion e-toll debt. This follows an agreement where the provincial government will cover 30 of the debt, while the national government will handle the remaining 70.

"As the GPG, we have a full appreciation of the implications that repaying the e-toll debt will have on our financial position. The debt of R20.1 billion, inclusive of interest, is a substantial bite into our already stretched and limited resources. To meet our obligations to repay this debt, we have had to make very difficult decisions and re-orientate our budget priorities, which, necessarily, will have an impact on the fiscus," explains Maile.

Despite the financial pressure, Maile emphasises that the province remains committed to fulfilling its financial obligations without compromising essential services.