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Minister Macpherson’s Intervention in Corrupt EPWP Welcomed

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Dear Editor

The DA in the Eastern Cape welcomes the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson’s initiative to reimagine the failed and corrupt Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

The Minister’s decision to launch a nationwide Listening Tour to gather input from citizens about their experiences with the EPWP in the Northern Areas of Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) is both timely and appropriate.

Originally designed to benefit poor and vulnerable citizens – in NMB the EPWP has instead become a vehicle for political point-scoring and a cash cow for well-connected individuals in the Metro.

The ANC/EFF/NA/PA coalition government has reportedly been using the EPWP to create jobs for pals, while DA ward councillors have consistently highlighted how the programme’s policies are being flouted.

The misuse of EPWP funding has created an untenable situation where money intended to provide work and stipends to the poorest families in the Metro is being misappropriated to enrich connected individuals.

Earlier this year, the extent of this corruption was revealed when the DA learned of individuals earning salaries ranging from R10,000 to R30,000 funded by the EPWP. These individuals are purported to be political appointees of the current coalition government, which undermines the programme’s intended purpose.

This year the DA in NMB announced a policy to optimise EPWP operations in the Metro.

Our policy aims to:

  • Ensure that EPWP opportunities are distributed widely among those who truly need them.
  • Protect the EPWP from political interference.
  • Develop straightforward and practical operating standards.
  • Equip participants with skills for additional work opportunities through their EPWP experience.
  • Allow for regular oversight of the EPWP unit’s operations.

We are confident that Minister Macpherson will listen to our people’s voices, and those in need will soon experience a transparent and fair EPWP.

The DA is committed to ensuring that the EPWP serves its intended purpose. We will continue to fight for accountability and transparency to prevent the misuse of funds and ensure that opportunities are accessible to those who need them most.

Regards

Yusuf Cassim MPL
DA EC Provincial Chairperson

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