By: Zilungile Mkhize
The South African National Christian Forum (SANCF) has strongly criticised the ANC-led government, accusing it of failing the poor while protecting the interests of the wealthy elite.
The Forum has condemned the ruling party’s reported plans to blacklist students with historical debt, saying such actions block educational and economic opportunities for the underprivileged. The blacklisting proposal is linked to efforts by higher education institutions to recover billions in unpaid student fees.
In a statement, the Forum also took aim at Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, saying his recent comments about removing illegal settlements amount to hate speech directed at impoverished communities and foreign nationals. Lesufi has faced criticism from civil society groups for remarks perceived as xenophobic and insensitive to the housing crisis.
SANCF president Marothi Mashashane said corruption, poor governance, and the neglect of basic services like water, electricity, and sanitation have worsened poverty and widened the gap between rich and poor.
“The government has abandoned its moral duty to protect the vulnerable,” Mashashane said.
