Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae
By Thabo Mosia
Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae has allegedly terminated the contracts of over 1,300 healthcare workers, including nursing assistants and COVID-19 response staff. This workforce, reportedly employed under auto-renewable contracts with the Free State Department of Health since July 2020, claims the termination is abrupt and unjust, particularly after over four years of continuous service. Many workers believe they have been dismissed unfairly, citing political bias and claiming past premiers treated them more fairly.
COVID-19 Workers Demand Answers
The dismissed health workers say they were essential to the province’s pandemic response, performing critical roles across hospitals and clinics. They express frustration over their treatment and accuse the premier of disregarding their contributions. One worker, speaking to Central News, voiced their disappointment, saying, “After four years with the department, we’re told it’s over. The government owes us answers. Where did the funds allocated for COVID-19 workers go?”
Their pleas come amidst claims that Premier Letsoha-Mathae has not only ignored their concerns but allegedly threatened to terminate those who did not meet her demands. The workers also question the administration’s dismissal of their requests for contract renewals or permanent employment. Many compare her administration to previous leadership under Premiers Sisi Ntombela and Dukwana, who they say displayed greater empathy towards employees.
Accusations of Unfair Treatment and Neglect
Videos circulating online allegedly show the premier visiting hospitals and clinics, issuing warnings to healthcare workers about potential dismissals. The workers, however, deny neglecting their duties, insisting they work diligently despite challenging conditions. They further claim that the premier’s approach has been aggressive, stating that she “talks like a streetmate” instead of adopting a respectful tone.
One healthcare worker recounted, “Our dedication is being questioned unfairly. We’ve been here through it all, serving our communities. We’re now abandoned by the same government we worked to support.”
EFF Joins Health Workers in Protest
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have taken up the cause, denouncing Premier Letsoha-Mathae’s actions. EFF Free State Provincial Chairperson, Commissar Liphoko Coach, has called on residents to join the party’s protest on Friday, 25 October, in support of the healthcare workers. In his statement, he invited the people of Mangaung to leave their homes and join the picket line, urging, “Don’t watch us from your screens. Stop tweeting from your beds. Come join us in the picket lines and tweet from there.”
The EFF Provincial Secretary Bosanku stated, “These workers risked their lives at a time when it wasn’t fashionable to serve. Today, they’re dismissed as if their sacrifices meant nothing.” The EFF has positioned itself as an advocate for the workers, asserting that as the ruling ANC loses influence, the EFF stands ready to fill the gap and address public grievances.
Workers Plan Vigil for Premier’s Response
The dismissed workers have planned a night vigil on Tuesday, hoping to prompt a response from Premier Letsoha-Mathae. They say this decision comes from months of being ignored, leaving them feeling marginalized. They plan to stay outside government offices until their voices are heard, citing the premier’s alleged neglect as their motivation.
In a statement, one worker said, “We have tried to engage peacefully, but our voices go unheard. This vigil is a last resort to show that we cannot be ignored.” Many are calling for either an extension of their contracts or permanent employment.
Alleged Mismanagement of Public Service Contracts
Earlier this month, the Free State premier’s office faced similar criticism when it was revealed that the contracts of at least 150 staff members would not be renewed. Some of these employees have worked for the state for over 16 years, including former MEC of Sports, Arts, and Culture Dan Kgothule. This new wave of terminations reflects growing discontent with the current administration’s treatment of long-serving employees.
One dismissed government official expressed frustration, saying, “I’ve been with the premier’s office since 2009. This administration doesn’t care about the rising unemployment in the Free State. Our dismissals are influenced by political differences within the ANC, and they treat us as enemies simply because of past affiliations with Ace Magashule and Mme Mantombela.”
Lack of Response from Premier’s Office and Department of Health
Central News reached out to the Free State Premier’s Office and the Department of Health for comments on Wednesday at 11am, but the response has been limited. Director of Media Strategy Thabang Mokoka confirmed receipt of the media inquiry, stating that the matter would be addressed soon by Department of Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi. However, Mvambi did not respond by the deadline on Thursday at 5pm.
A follow-up attempt by Central News on Thursday at 5:30 pm was met with arrogance in his approach.
Public Reaction and Potential Political Fallout
Public sentiment towards the mass dismissals has been overwhelmingly critical, with many accusing the current administration of disrespecting healthcare personnel who sacrificed their well-being during the COVID-19 crisis. Critics suggest that political divisions within the ANC may be fueling these terminations, with allegations that employees linked to former premiers are being targeted.
This issue has the potential to impact the ANC’s political standing in the Free State as it heads into the 2026 local government elections. Some political analysts believe that this situation may alienate a portion of the party’s support base, particularly among those affected by the terminations and their families. As one political commentator observed, “The ANC could face repercussions if it continues to alienate its workers.”
Videos by workers:
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