DA Claims Departure of Joburg Property Company CEO Helen Botes Is ‘Expected’
Johannesburg – The Democratic Alliance (DA) has remarked that the resignation of former Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) CEO, Helen Botes, from the City was “not unexpected.”
The City of Johannesburg has confirmed that Botes is no longer associated with the JPC.
Councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, the DA Johannesburg Caucus Leader, stated on Thursday, 21 August 2025, that her party has been “sounding the alarm over corruption, maladministration, and mismanagement at the JPC during Botes’ tenure for years.”
Moreover, Councillor Kayser-Echeozonjoku highlighted: “We have consistently pointed out her role in the neglect of City properties, failures in building management, and issues that led to tragedies such as the Usindiso Building fire, which claimed the lives of 76 innocent individuals.”
She disclosed that the DA has lodged criminal cases against Botes and senior JPC officials for violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act, in light of serious findings from the Special Investigations Unit.
“Additionally, a culpable homicide charge has been filed against Botes for the preventable fatalities caused by the Usindiso fire,” said Councillor Kayser-Echeozonjoku.
“We have formally urged the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), National Treasury, and the Presidency to take decisive action, enforce accountability, and ensure repercussions for all of her alleged misconducts.”
The DA caucus leader asserted that these efforts are starting to bear fruit.
“With the matter now escalated to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and civil society organizations like OUTA initiating action in the Johannesburg High Court to have Botes declared a delinquent director, the DA’s long-standing warnings have been validated; she should never have been allowed to remain in her position for such an extended period,” Councillor Kayser-Echeozonjoku remarked.
“However, we have received reports suggesting that she continues to serve as an advisor in the Executive Mayor’s office, and we are currently investigating whether the City has sought to hide this information from the public.”
She stressed that the DA will continue its efforts.
“Botes’ exit from the City does not free her from accountability, nor should it protect her from criminal or civil consequences,” affirmed Councillor Kayser-Echeozonjoku.
“The residents of Johannesburg deserve justice, and we will persist in advocating for it in Council, in the courts, and through every available avenue.”
“This situation highlights a truth that the DA has consistently asserted: political interference, cadre deployment, and protecting compromised officials have led to the downfall of Joburg’s entities.”