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"One of the most troubling aspects of this scheme is the evidence that thousands of qualified individuals had their CVs discarded, while certain applicants were barred from even applying. This raises serious doubts about the fairness and transparency of the selection process."

It is becoming very clear that Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's Nasi iSpani job initiative is nothing more than a cadre deployment scheme. What was touted as a solution to unemployment is quickly becoming a scandal, revealing Lesufi's exploitation of the issue of unemplolyement for political gain.

One of the most troubling aspects of this scheme is the evidence that thousands of qualified individuals had their CVs discarded, while certain applicants were barred from even applying. This raises serious doubts about the fairness and transparency of the selection process. It is clear that these jobs were reserved for ANC cadres, as Lesufi's scheme favored party members. In fact, the recent advertisement of the campaign on an ANC leaflet serves as undeniable proof that this initiative is merely a front for ANC cadre deployment.

The DA firmly condemns this blatant favoritism and has decided to take action. We will establish a dedicated portal where applicants who have not received any confirmation of their applications can lodge complaints. This will allow us to gather more evidence and hold Lesufi and his cadre deployment committee accountable.

To shed light on these allegations, we will also submit a Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) application to the ANC's Gauteng provincial cadre deployment committee. We demand full disclosure of the pre-selected candidates for these jobs, further exposing the unfairness and partisan bias at play.

The DA firmly believes in merit-based appointments and rejects any form of political manipulation and abuse. We call for an independent body to oversee the recruitment and appointment processes, ensuring that job opportunities are granted based on merit, not political affiliation. The people of Gauteng deserve equal and fair employment prospects, free from the taint of political interference.

We urge the Gauteng provincial government to acknowledge and address these concerns. Rectifying the flaws in the Nasi iSpani job initiative is essential to restoring trust in the government's commitment to transparency and fairness. The DA will continue to hold the government accountable and fight against corruption, advocating for a job creation strategy that benefits all residents of Gauteng, regardless of their political affiliations.

Issued by Solly Msimanga MPL - Official Leader of the Opposition in Gauteng