ActionSA Demands Clarity on Alleged EPWP Political Interference in Dr JS Moroka
Joseph Mampuru
ActionSA Mpumalanga Disabilities Forum Chairperson
ActionSA is calling for urgent clarity from the Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality following allegations that EPWP workers in Ward 25 were prevented from renewing their contracts amid confusion over competing beneficiary lists.
According to information received by ActionSA, workers were called to complete forms in anticipation of renewing their EPWP contracts. However, it is alleged that their contracts were subsequently not approved because they were not participating in door-to-door activities for the incoming ANC councillor candidate.
It is further alleged that the existing councillor and incoming councillor candidate are working from different lists of EPWP beneficiaries, leaving affected workers uncertain about who is responsible for determining their employment opportunities.
Workers reportedly arrived for duty but were unable to perform their work, while those affected are now seeking clarity on whether their contracts remain valid, who authorised the changes and what criteria were used to determine who would be retained.
EPWP opportunities are public employment opportunities and must not be used as political rewards or as a tool to compel residents to participate in political activities.
ActionSA calls on the municipality to provide a clear explanation of what has happened, identify who authorised the alleged changes and ensure that EPWP appointments and renewals are based on transparent, lawful and non-political criteria.
Residents should never have to choose between access to an employment opportunity and participation in political campaigning.
ActionSA Demands Clarity on Alleged EPWP Political Interference in Dr JS Moroka
ActionSA is calling for urgent clarity from the Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality following allegations that EPWP workers in Ward 25 were prevented from renewing their contracts amid confusion over competing beneficiary lists.
According to information received by ActionSA, workers were called to complete forms in anticipation of renewing their EPWP contracts. However, it is alleged that their contracts were subsequently not approved because they were not participating in door-to-door activities for the incoming ANC councillor candidate.
It is further alleged that the existing councillor and incoming councillor candidate are working from different lists of EPWP beneficiaries, leaving affected workers uncertain about who is responsible for determining their employment opportunities.
Workers reportedly arrived for duty but were unable to perform their work, while those affected are now seeking clarity on whether their contracts remain valid, who authorised the changes and what criteria were used to determine who would be retained.
EPWP opportunities are public employment opportunities and must not be used as political rewards or as a tool to compel residents to participate in political activities.
ActionSA calls on the municipality to provide a clear explanation of what has happened, identify who authorised the alleged changes and ensure that EPWP appointments and renewals are based on transparent, lawful and non-political criteria.
Residents should never have to choose between access to an employment opportunity and participation in political campaigning.