Central SA
Free State department rethinks dismissed health workers─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 12:07 Fri, 13 Dec 2024
The Free State Health Department has reversed a decision not to renew the contracts of more than 1,300 health workers whose employment was terminated in October due to budget constraints.
The original decision was met with significant public backlash, including protests from the affected workers and criticism from political parties.
After being told their contracts won’t be renewed, health workers protested outside the OR Tambo Building in Bloemfontein, expressing frustration over abrupt terminations and the province’s handling of their contracts.
The Free State ANC in faced criticism for its perceived failure to protect jobs. Provincial Secretary-General Polediso Motsoeneng acknowledged the situation and pledged to address the workers’ grievances while stressing the importance of compliance with financial and legal frameworks.
Meanwhile, the EFF joined the protests, marching to the Premier’s Office and calling for premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae’s resignation.
Tikoe Chalale, a former healthcare worker at Pelonomi Hospital, voiced her frustration: “We are now jobless, depressed, and anxious. The department’s actions have left us in the lurch, and we fear for the future of healthcare in this province.”
The department, supported by the executive council, confirmed it would reinstate the affected workers. Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi directed the Human Resources Department to expedite the rehiring process.
“Starting from 11:00 on Friday (13/12), these contract workers are advised to submit their relevant documentation to the nearest health facility where they were previously employed.
“This process will facilitate the necessary HR procedures to ensure their seamless reintegration into the workforce in January 2025,” said spokesperson Mondli Mvambi.
He clarified this reinstatement is not an expansion of employment but a continuation of existing contractual relationships.
Mahlatsi welcomed the reinstatement and said the province’s healthcare system has faced significant challenges in the absence of these workers. The workers are expected to resume their duties in January.
