Poisoned chalice: HoD Jobs advertised

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – Hardly a month after Mxolisi Dukwana, Free State Province Premier was quoted in a statement issued by his office that he is applying his mind over the vacant HoD position at Sport, Arts, Culture And Recreation, the position has been advertised, together with two others.

The over R2m per annum job on a five year contract is a sought after job with benefits and influence, it also brings lot of responsibility and likely to attract an axe from all law enforcement agencies.

Job For Comrades

In August last year, Dukwana’s predecessor, Sefora Ntombela made three appointments at Human Settlement, COGTA, and Treasury while appointments at Police, Roads, and Transport, Social Development and Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation were not filled in after the interviews.

Ntombela’s office at the time said the appointments were “currently being finalized” after also going through the necessary Human Resources (HR) and government processes”.

This view was shared by Dukwana concerning the appointment of HoD at SACR and he said he was applying his mind.

The positions have been advertised and the question is what happened to the Premier applying his mind & this process finalized?

We asked the Premier if in law he has room to apply his mind in a process that has recommendations and what did the panel recommend but he did not respond.

It will be interesting if those who went through the interviews will challenge this move especially those who DID NOT get regret letters.

The relationship between MECs and HoDs got a mention last week during the EXCO according to sources with Premier alleged to have told everyone they need to work together.

Dr Masiteng, the HoD for Agriculture and Rural Development is another head who is allegedly facing his toughest time as he is being sidelined according to sources at Glen based department.

In September three HoDs will be hoping they are confirmed permanently when their probations end while three others will have their contracts end.

So their positions will only be advertised when they have left office?

What was the purpose of the stocktaking meeting of the positions coming to an end in September are not advertised.

Stocktaking as Dukwana looks to fill vacant jobs in government and municipalities

In other news, the expelled ANC councillors will today address the media about their plans.

Only in Free State.