This is according to Arts, Culture and Recreation MEC Limakatso Mahasa. She says her office is in contact with Minister Nathi Mthethwa to address challenges raised by the artists - as the facility falls under national government. The disgruntled artists at Pacofs are, however, resolute they will continue staging the sit-in at Pacofs until Mthethwa addresses their issues. This, despite health challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Following their picket outside Premier Sisi Ntombela's house over the weekend, the group told OFM News they are expecting Ntombela to keep to her promises of alleviating their concerns to Mthethwa and ensuring that he decends to Bloemfontein to come and address them.

The provincial coordinator of the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA), Mbuyiselo Nqodi, said the plight faced by artists in the province has for years been ignored and are now resolute that Mthethwa must come and address them.

Nqodi said they want the current artistic director and acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Meshack Xaba, to vacate his office.

Xaba is accused of maladministration, favouritism, and turning a blind eye on the needs of artists.

OFM News previously reported that Xaba was appointed in his position in late 2020 following the suspension of the former Pacofs CEO, Peter Pedlar, pending an investigation into his conduct.

Meanwhile, Mahasa, addressing Members of the Provincial Legislature and Koppies community on Tuesday, said they are working on the matter and will like to urge those gathered at Pacofs to take heed of Covid-19 regulations.

OFM News