The feeble attempts by the Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, and the MEC for Social Development, Mbali Hlope, to do crisis management and placate the welfare organisations that have not yet received their service agreements serves as a shining example of their inability to govern Gauteng and this critical Department.
Lesufi and the MEC had an entire year to do effective planning and ensure that non-governmental organisations are thoroughly aware of the rules and regulations that come into effect in the 2024/25 financial year.
Instead, they initially reduced the budget and then increased it again from R1,8 billion to R2,4 billion on Tuesday.
He has been promising to conclude service contracts since the beginning of the year, but welfare organisations are still struggling just to make ends meet. Many has already had to close their doors or lay off personnel.
Lesufi’s introduction of the new 70/30 clause has elicited confusion and opposition as organisations are required to use 70% of their funds for financing training programmes and 30% of the money for administrative costs and salaries.
The Premier and MEC clearly do not understand how institutions in this field function. For example, frail care divisions usually require more personnel to look after patients. Babies and toddlers also require intensive care.
The FF Plus notes his promise to scrap the clause and will keep him to his word.
The Department of Social Development frequently changing its measures because its systems are impractical should not be tolerated. A transparent selection process should be followed and directed by individuals who are familiar with the field.
The FF Plus has already sent an official letter to the Premier requesting him not to perpetuate the current problems and to consult with experts to compile a well-drafted document which is accessible to welfare organisations.
The ANC government has, however, proven time and again that it is not to be trusted to care for the most vulnerable in society.
Voters should get rid of the ANC in Gauteng on 29 May and replace it with a coalition government of which the FF Plus is part and which will act in the best interests of the most vulnerable in the province.
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