The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has instructed his department to immediately halt all Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) transfers for the Matjhabeng Local Municipality as allegations of the abuse of payroll by politically connected individuals has surfaced.
In a statement on Sunday, the Minister has expressed deep concern over the allegations published in a City Press investigation that reported that the Matjhabeng Local Municipality’s EPWP payroll continues to fund inflated salaries for former councillors and sitting political office bearers.
These individuals reportedly earn over R31 000 per month - more than ten times the average EPWP stipend - thereby undermining the very principles of the programme.
The Minister explained that the EPWP was established to provide short-term, skills-based work opportunities to unemployed South Africans, not as a vehicle for political patronage.
He has since instructed the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to suspend any EPWP transfers to the municipality, pending a full investigation.
“The EPWP is an essential lifeline for many in communities across the country, including in Matjhabeng, and it would therefore be wholly unacceptable if any politician or official is found to have used the programme for personal benefit.
“We simply cannot turn a blind eye when serious allegations of abuse are raised, which is why I have instructed the department to suspend EPWP fund transfers until a formal investigation can be completed,” Macpherson said.
The Minister added that the allegations further reinforce his view that the EPWP must be reformed to eliminate any possibility of abuse and ensure that intended beneficiaries fully benefit from the programme, free from political interference.
“Through the EPWP Listening Tour conducted nationwide, we have heard several serious allegations of abuse — such as those in Matjhabeng — and it is therefore critical that the programme be strengthened to eliminate any possibility of corruption and political patronage.
“After 20 years, we are committed to reforming the EPWP to ensure it remains a viable platform for empowerment well into the future, as we work to build a better South Africa,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
