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TimesLiveTimesLive05/09/2025
NEGATIVE

Lesufi claims 97% of Gauteng potholes fixed before G20, but residents sceptical

Lesufi claims 97% of Gauteng potholes fixed before G20, but residents sceptical

Executive Summary

The Gauteng government announced it has repaired 97% of potholes on key roads in Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni ahead of the G20 leaders' summit on November 22-23 at Nasrec, marking South Africa's first time hosting as the rotating president. Premier Panyaza Lesufi highlighted extensive infrastructure upgrades following a R700 million estimate for Johannesburg repairs, alongside efforts to address service delivery issues like water, electricity, and vandalism. Residents and opposition figures criticized the prioritization of G20 routes over everyday roads, sharing photos of unrepaired potholes and questioning the lack of routine maintenance. These efforts underscore tensions between event-driven improvements and sustainable infrastructure for locals.