Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government
The Premier welcomes Judge J Goldstein's judgement in the case involving 10 Sandton businesses and the Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Council.
The judgement confirms the duty of Government at all levels to accelerate development of all communities and to ensure that the city's resources are equitably distributed.
By confirming the Council's actions in the imposition of a uniform rate, Judge Goldstein acknowledges the constitutional provision that Citizens should be treated equally.
We believe that this will go a long way in reinforcing the credibility of Local Government especially as it relates to its right to foster integrated development within the context of ONE CITY, ONE TAX BASE.
Whilst the verdict is positive, it is nevertheless incumbent on both Council and the Sandton Business Community to now focus their energies on the rejuvenation of Johannesburg in the spirit of Masakhane for the benefit of all.
The GJMTC must now focus its energies on development for the benefit of all sectors of the community. By being able to redistribute resources to under-developed areas through a levy, the Metros are sure to complement provincial initiatives aimed at redressing the imbalances of the past.
Issued by: Sefako Nyaka Communications and Public Relations Directorate Office of the Premier 30 Simmonds Street Johannesburg 2000 Tel: 355-6034/6026
14 April 1997