As the investigation unfolds over the next two weeks, the department aims to establish a strong foundation for good governance and fairness across all its provincial structures. The Petrusburg labour centre was closed due to safety concerns for both clients and employees, following community unrest sparked by allegations of nepotism.

As a precautionary measure, the department decided to suspend operations at the centre from Monday, 6 October, until further notice.

In September, angry residents closed the centre following allegations of nepotism and unfair hiring practices. The community insisted the offices will remain closed until senior officials address them directly.

“The department has moved swiftly to institute a formal investigation into serious allegations of nepotism surrounding a recent appointment in the Free State province,” said employment and labour spokesperson Teboho Thejane.

“These allegations have sparked community protests and threats to shut down the labour centre, which the department describes as deeply concerning and in need of urgent attention. 

In response, the acting director-general has revoked all human resources delegations from the Free State province with immediate effect, pending the finalisation of internal processes. The ability of provincial officials to make HR-related decisions was thereby put on hold.

“The department has made it unequivocally clear that flouting HR processes and procedures will not be tolerated. Any employee found to have contravened established HR protocols will be held fully accountable and face the full consequences of their actions.”

Last month, community members alleged the director of unemployment insurance in the Free State appointed relatives and associates to all advertised vacant client service officer posts.

Frustration among residents grew after attempts to address the matter through official channels were met with delays, prompting them to close the centre.

“This incident serves as a strong warning to all employees that diligence, fairness, and transparency in all HR and administrative processes are non-negotiable,” said Thejane. “Any deviation from these principles undermines the credibility of the department and the services it provides.

“The department has called on community members and stakeholders to allow the investigation to proceed without disruption and to work collaboratively in ensuring that the labour sector remains a safe and productive space for service provision.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame cvs