He doesn’t live there‚ but Gauteng Premier David Makhura has “utilised the property for official business engagements with national and international guests”. That’s the justification given for the R4.2-million been spent doing up the official residence of priovince’s political leader since May last year.According to a reply obtained by the Democratic Alliance’s Jack Bloom‚ refurbishments to the value of R2.47-million on the Bryanston house included “converting a mini-golf course into parking‚ fixing the leaking roof‚ replacing all external door locks‚ and repairs to the electrical system‚ plumbing‚ paintwork and furniture”.The remainder of the amount was spent on plumbing‚ gardening‚ cleaning‚ electrical work‚ the refurbishment of the pool‚ water and lights‚ and on rates and taxes.Bloom said the house was bought in “March 2004 for R11.5 million for the use of then-Premier Mbhazima Shilowa”.“Since then‚ more than R20-million has been spent on its upkeep‚ including many refurbishments and repairs‚” he said.R8.4-million was handed out while Shilowa was premier‚ R1745000 “during Paul Mashatile’s short premiership supposedly to repair structural damage”‚ and “when Premier Nomvula Mokonyane lived there‚ a total of R2704500 was spent on refurbishment of the main bedroom and en-suite bath room‚ as well as the kitchen‚ laundry‚ dressing room closet‚ curtains and bedding‚ and furniture”‚ Bloom said.“This house is a white elephant that should be sold as soon as possible. I suspect it is being retained because connected people are making money out of its running costs and never-ending repairs and maintenance.”..