"We, the people of South Africa, Recognise the injustices of our past; Honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land; Respect those who have worked to build and develop our country; and Believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.” Preamble to the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.

Wednesday 31 July 2013

Beware of dodgey ANC vote cons

It would appear the 2014 election machinery has already been set in motion. The Saturday Dispatch reported on allegations that a government funded programme was being used as a campaign tool by an ANC councillor.

Workers, who form part of the extended public works programme (EPWP) in Ngqamakhwe, were allegedly told at a meeting to get ANC membership cards. The meeting had been called to discuss work schedules. It was further alleged that workers were told not to assume the jobs were theirs since there were ANC members without work.

The implicated ANC councillor admitted asking workers to join the ANC!

These are early days for electioneering and such claims are bound to emerge as political campaigns intensify. However, allegiance to a specific party should never be a prerequisite for any job – irrespective of how low level the job might be.
In a country where 4.6 million people are unemployed and 2.3 million are discouraged job seekers, people are desperate to put food on the table. However, there will also be those preying on the desperate for their own selfish gain.

In Buffalo City Metro, another ‘jobs disgrace’ has befallen another ANC councillor. The circumstances, however, are different, with the councillor and two others accused of selling council jobs such as those as grass cutters and cleaners. To secure one of these jobs, job seekers are allegedly asked to pay between R500 and R1 500. A case of theft under false pretences has since been opened against the ANC councillor and the couple.

Political leaders should be cautioned against using deception to grow their party’s voter base, and communities need to stand up against these dishonest politicians and see that they are adequately dealt with.

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