The province has witnessed a series of dismissals affecting health workers and other government employees since the May elections. More than 150 long-term workers in the premier’s office are among those who’ve lost their jobs.

Free State Premier MaQueen Letshoha Mathae, who succeeded Mxolisi Dukwana seven months ago, has faced backlash over the terminations. Some view it as a contradiction to the ANC’s promise of job creation.

When ANC members marched in Bloemfontein against the war in the Middle East on Thursday (31/10), they were met by the health contract workers who gathered outside the OR Tambo Building, protesting their dismissals and expressing frustration over the province’s handling of their employment.

Addressing the demonstrators, SACP Provincial Secretary-General Bhekumuzi Stofile condemned the ANC’s approach, accusing the party of neglecting workers despite campaign promises of job creation. 

He referred to similar job cuts in Sasolburg in 2017 and warned of the economic and social impact.

“The ANC cannot ask people to vote with promises of employment only to terminate existing jobs. The SACP stands firmly with these workers, and we demand that the ANC leadership take a stand against job losses.”

Stofile called for an urgent alliance meeting with the ANC, stressing the need for a coordinated response to the ongoing dismissals across departments. “We cannot stay silent while workers face such difficulties,” he added.

ANC Free State Secretary-General Polediso Motsoeneng acknowledged the issue and pledged to engage with affected workers, while emphasising the need to adhere to legal and financial guidelines.

“The ANC’s manifesto commits to creating job opportunities, and we need to honour that. Our focus will be on ensuring the provincial government addresses any financial inefficiencies impacting employment, so we can intervene and save jobs,” said Motsoeneng.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg