QWAQWA – Free State MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism Ketso Makume has slammed the brakes on the Free State Development Corporation’s (FDC) planned shutdown of factories in QwaQwa – a move that threatened over 4 000 jobs.
The FDC was set to close and evict factories operating illegally in FDC buildings around QwaQwa – factories accused of occupying premises without proper lease documents and failing to pay municipal services.
Makume says government was aware of the planned action, but he intervened immediately to prevent an economic bloodbath.
“I have called for an immediate halt of the action. It has the potential to cause loss of jobs, closures and evictions, which may cause disruption of industrial activity,” Makume said.
“We have agreed with FDC to put the process on hold until I as the MEC and affected people, including the FDC itself, come up with a way forward to solve all the hiccups and avoid people working at those factories losing employment.”
Makume revealed that some business owners admitted to occupying factories without permission after lengthy, frustrated attempts to get legal authorization from the FDC.
But he issued a stern warning: Once a new deal is struck, there will be no mercy for defiance.
“Whoever goes against the agreements that will be reached, the FDC will have all rights to close non-complying factories and shut their businesses,” he warned.
“Every job supports a family, and every productive factory contributes to the local economy. We must work together to find practical and sustainable solutions that protect livelihoods and strengthen both Phuthaditjhaba and Botshabelo industrial bases.”
Makume stressed that the provincial government will not allow job losses, especially as the economy continues to deteriorate and the festive season approaches.
“We are determined to ensure that no one loses employment. It is unfortunate that this comes at the time of festive season,” he said.
