Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has suspended the transfer of EPWP (Expanded Public Works Programme) funds to the Matjhabeng Local Municipality due to concerns regarding misuse of the funds. Reports have emerged suggesting that politically connected individuals within the municipality have been receiving inflated salaries through the programme.
Macpherson’s decision to halt all EPWP fund transfers to Matjhabeng comes while a full investigation is conducted into these allegations of abuse. The minister emphasized that the claims highlight the urgent need to reform the EPWP to eliminate opportunities for corruption and political patronage.
According to a report by City Press, it revealed that the EPWP payroll at Matjhabeng includes inflated salaries for former councillors and current political office bearers, some of whom reportedly earn salaries exceeding R31000 per month—more than ten times the average stipend provided by the EPWP.
The minister reiterated that the EPWP was designed to provide short-term skills-based work opportunities for unemployed South Africans, not as a means for political gain.
“The EPWP is an essential lifeline for many communities across the country, including Matjhabeng. It should be unacceptable for any politician or official to exploit the programme for personal benefit,” stressed Minister Dean Macpherson.
#BeTheFirstToKnow
TO SUPPORT FREE STATE WORLD NEWSPAPER AND THE WORK WE DO, DONATE TO US ON OUR ACCOUNT NO HERE:
Grace T GROUP
Capitec Bank Account (CAPITEC BUSINESS)
Account number: 1051608058
Account Type: Current Account
