By More Matshediso
Johannesburg - A panel set up by Gauteng Premier David Makhura to review the implementation of e-tolls in Gauteng is set to begin its work next week, the Premier said on Thursday.
The 10-member panel, which will be assisted by a technical team, will make its recommendation to the provincial government on 30 November, Premier Makhura told reporters at a briefing.
He announced the Review Panel during his State of the Province Address last month. It will investigate the “economic impact of e-tolls on Gauteng motorists”.
Premier Makhura emphasised that government will not pre-empt the outcomes of the panel, but will await its five-month consultation process to be completed.
He said relevant stakeholders, including the national government and the South African Local Government Association in the province, were consulted on the matter.
“Our decision to establish this panel is based on our conviction that the people’s voice must be heard on matters that affect our province,” Premier Makhura said.
He added that the outcomes of the assessment will be based on the “actual impact and experience, not theory”.
“We want an evidence based report,” he said.
The panel is chaired by Professor Muxe Nkondo, with Dr Patricia Hanekom as his Secretary.
Panellists include Advocate John Ngcebetsha, Dr Vuyo Mahlathi, Dr Luci Abrahams, Professor Fiona Tregenna, Dr Anna Mokgokong, Dr Johnson Sampson, Ms Lauretta Teffo and Professor Chris Malikane.
Premier Makhura said five other members of the panel will be announced once he has concluded consultations with them.
Terms of reference for the panel
- To undertake a comprehensive assessment of the socio-economic impact of the introduction of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project in general and e-tolls in particular on the economy and the people of Gauteng;
- To invite proposals and submissions from the people of Gauteng and stakeholders on the socio-economic impact and proposed solutions thereof, and
- To submit findings and recommendations to the Gauteng Provincial Government.
Premier Makhura said his office will provide administrative support, while Gauteng City Region Observatory will provide technical support to the panel.
The panel will sit in its first meeting on 17 July.
Meanwhile, Premier Makhura urged motorists in Gauteng to continue to pay for their e-tolls. – SAnews.gov.za
