The EFF in the Free State has once more taken a bold stance after it decided to boycott the 2024 State of the Province Address (SOPA).

An event typically marked by political pomp and circumstances, where Premier Mxolisi Dukwana is expected to outline the provincial government's achievements and plans for the year ahead. However, the EFF's decision to boycott this year's SOPA speaks volumes about the deep-rooted frustrations and disillusionment many South Africans feel towards their leaders.

‘Has failed to fulfill its oversight role’

Eff Provincial Chairperson, Mapheule Liphoko says this decision is premised on how the government of the day disregards and undermines the dignity and livelihoods of our people. He claims the Provincial Legislature has failed to fulfill its oversight role over the executive and has been used to rubberstamp the ANC-led government's incompetence and deliberate failures.  He referred to this year's SOPA as a money-siphoning event.

Police parade to welcome Free State Premier, Mxolosi Dukwana. Photo: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

"SOPA has been used as a platform to mislead the public with blatant lies and false promises by Dukwana and his predecessors. The state of municipalities has worsened under the rule of the ANC and Dukwana. Municipalities are not financially solvent and liquid, there is no service delivery happening. 

Municipalities like Mangaung and Matjhabeng have ongoing sewage spillages in people’s houses; Ngwathe, Kopanong, and Maluti-A-Phofung are constantly without clean running water and electricity. The Auditor-General has nothing positive to say about all Free State Municipalities as they are collapsing," said Liphoko.

The SOPA 2024 is underway at the Phuthaditjhaba Centre in Qwaqwa. Photo:  Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Liphoko also slammed Free State Legislature speaker, Ntombizanele Sifuba, citing that she has failed to conduct proper oversight over the executive. He said voices of opposition parties have been silenced in legislature debates.

OFM News/ Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg