North West Department of Social Development lift suspensions of five (5) employees with immediate effect and confirms the dismissal of the Acting Chief Director.

Mahikeng - Following the intervention aimed at stabilising the Department of Social Development announced by the Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape on 30 May 2023 the Intervention Team, convened by the Acting Head of Department, Mr Obakeng Mongale, hereby confirms:

The lifting of the suspensions on the five (5) employees of the department and also, the termination from service of, the Acting Chief Director Corporate Services, Ms Lorato Gasealahwe.

This decision is a culmination of intense engagements between the Intervention Team, legal and labour experts who studied the background, as well as processing all the details that emanate from disciplinary proceedings and records pertaining to Ms. Gasealahwe and the five employees.

With regard to the five employees, the immediate lifting of their suspensions will allow the Intervention Team space for a proper review process to start off their alleged transgressions. The Intervention Team will determine whether correct procedures were followed as prescribed by the law.

The affected employees have been informed of the decision to lift their suspensions effective from June 19, 2023.

With regards to Ms. Gasealahwe, the merits of the decision to terminate her, will be further ventilated at the Public Health and Social Development Sectoral Bargaining Council for Conciliation following her previous referral of the matter to the same Council.

Source: Government of South Africa