DPWI/PMTE on the status of Telkom Towers and Parliamentary Villages Board; with Deputy Minister

Video The Committee was briefed by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) on the status of the long-standing Telkom Towers issue, and expressed frustration at the continued failure by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to occupy the complex. Members questioned the prolonged delays and highlighted the wasteful expenditure of public funds on a building that remained unused. The Department confirmed that the SAPS had still not taken up occupation, and that the Police Ministry had indicated a possible intention to relinquish the site. The matter remained under ministerial consideration. Members raised concerns about the R1 billion already spent on the project, with no return. The SAPS had disclosed that it holds 22 leases in Pretoria costing R444 million annually. Members called for urgent accountability and a dedicated project manager to ensure progress. The DPWI also highlighted the challenge of client departments refusing to occupy allocated properties. The Committee also received a briefing on the Parliamentary Villages Management Board. Challenges included the lack of a full-time administrator, outdated rules, quorum issues, unauthorised occupants, and unaudited financials. Members called for a legislative review, regular resident engagement, and improved oversight. The Committee called for decisive action, updated governance frameworks and time-bound implementation, to resolve both the Telkom Towers and Parliamentary Villages issues.