By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha Mathae addressed an audience of approximately 600 people, including government and municipal officials, traditional leaders, media representatives, and other dignitaries, where she outlined plans for the 7th administration.
During her speech, she highlighted government plans such as fostering an inclusive economy through industrial development, addressing the high cost of living, prioritising citizens’ needs, ensuring effective local governance, and enhancing service delivery and accountability.
Letsoha-Mathae was elected as the 8th Premier of the province in June, following the general elections in May.
“Given our experience, we now know what works better, what does not work, and what needs to be done. Valuable lessons have been learned. We will address unemployment, reignite economic growth, eradicate poverty and reduce inequality.”
“These goals go beyond mere intentions; they reflect our unwavering commitment to create a better life for all. We dare not fail, for we have come too far.Looking back at the past thirty years, we have made strides and changed our society for the better,” she added.
The Premier has also cautioned against the alarming rise of gender-based violence incidents in the province.
She said more resources will be directed to shelters and safe houses, among others.
Letsoha-Mathae also read the riot act to corrupt government officials adding that they will be dealt with and efforts will be made to recover money that was unduly paid to service providers.
“[I note] with concern the practice of facilitating payments to service providers, without work being done. We will embark on a process to recover all monies which were unduly paid to service providers. We are outraged by elements who have resorted to destruction, intimidation and extortion to get a share of contractors’ projects without doing any work.”
“These are criminals with no respect for law and order. To tackle these challenges, we will work with law enforcement agencies,” added Letsoha-Mathae.
EFF Provincial Chairperson and MPL Liphoko Mapheule was critical of the premier’s address. Mapheule said that the speech was merely a reiteration of previously made promises and did not present any new solutions.
“The premier comes here and says everything over and over again. Housing issues, for instance, have been a constant topic with no tangible results. We are continually reporting on these issues, and nothing has changed,” Mapheule said.
The EFF leader specifically pointed out the lack of progress on key projects such as the smelter initiative and special economic zones. He accused the provincial government of incompetence and mismanagement, stating, “The provincial government has reached a standstill and doesn’t know what they are doing. They are offering nothing.”
Mapheule reflected on the EFF’s absence from the previous official Opening of the Free State Legislature, which was led by former Premier Mxolisi Dukwana. At that time, the EFF chose not to attend, citing the government’s disregard for the dignity and well-being of the people.
“The fact that we did not attend does not mean we are not informed. We are always aware of what happens, regardless of when or where it occurs. We will continue to highlight and expose the same issues, whether they are addressed by Dukwana or Mathae,” he added.