Nepotism row hits Census

RESIDENTS of GaDikgale in Limpopo outside Polokwane have accused Statistics South Africa of nepotism and political polarisation in the appointment of Census officials.

This follows allegations that relatives of ANC officials were appointed Census coordinators.

Among others, those appointed were Nakedi Mailula (son to ANC ward councillor Moora Mailula); Granny Mashangoane (daughter to ANC PR councillor Puleng Mashangoane); and Ally Molope (who is a son to an ANC ward committee member Masoko Molope).

The Democratic Alliance councillor in the Capricorn district municipality, Sepuki Monyetshwale, said yesterday that the three were appointed Census coordinators ahead of other deserving applicants who had worked at the Stats SA

"This proves that one can never get a job as long he or she does not have any political connection," he said yesterday.

But Mailula has poured cold water on the allegations, saying there had been no political involvement in the appointment of their children.

"My son applied for the job like anyone else and he was fortunate that he got the job," Mailula said.

"If anyone has proof that my son got the job because of his parents' connection, let him prove it."

Provincial executive manager for Statistics South Africa in Limpopo Nthambeleni Mukwevho said Stats SA was operating independently and that it was not linked to any political organisation.

"We have recently received the similar complains from the very residents but our investigations revealed that those appointed to work as Census officials got the jobs on merit and not because of their political affiliations," Mukwevho said.

"Our officials, especially those in the selection panel, were made to sign declaration of interests before they were given jobs in an effort to avoid such kind of allegations."