DA calls for full provincial EPWP investigation as abuse runs deep in North West

Issued by Freddy Sonakile – DA Caucus Leader in the North West Provincial Legislature
05 Nov 2025 in Press Statements

Note to Broadcasters: Please find the attached soundbite in English by Freddy Sonakile.     

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the North West welcomes Minister Dean Macpherson’s decision to investigate allegations that EPWP workers in Bojanala District were forced to perform domestic chores for a mayoral committee member and coerced into paying political party membership fees.

However, this probe must not stop there. The DA is calling for the investigation to be expanded to cover the entire province, given that the abuse of EPWP workers is widespread and systemic.

Among the alarming cases documented by the DA are:

  • Tswaing Local Municipality: EPWP workers were allegedly forced to campaign for councillors under threat of losing their positions. The DA has video evidence supporting these claims.
  • Mahikeng Local Municipality: Workers report being robbed of stipends and receiving lower payments than contracted.
  • Kagisano-Molopo (Piet Plessis area): Allegations that recruitment is based on personal favouritism rather than merit.
  • Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality: Claims of irregular use of EPWP funds and lack of proper accountability.
  • Maquassi Hills Local Municipality: The programme is alleged to have become a jobs-for-pals scheme.

The DA further urges Minister Macpherson to fast-track his EPWP Listening Tour and include the North West province as a key stop. Communities here have repeatedly raised concerns about political interference, delayed payments, and unfair recruitment, yet these complaints have largely gone unaddressed. Direct engagement with affected participants will provide us with valuable information about the scale of abuse and help guide meaningful reforms. See the letter attached here.

The EPWP must be restored to its intended purpose: creating dignified work, building skills, and empowering communities, not serving political or personal interests. The DA will continue to monitor the investigation closely and support efforts to ensure that all officials and politicians implicated face accountability.