In a damning revelation, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) has uncovered a distressing scene at the South African Post Office (SAPO) in Butterworth, Eastern Cape, where thousands of parcels and letters are left abandoned, gathering dust in crates and bags. The UDM, led by President Bantu Holomisa, has obtained images that vividly illustrate the extent of the negligence at the heart of this crucial national institution.
President Holomisa expressed deep concern over what he described as a “next-level dereliction of duty” at the SAPO. While acknowledging the longstanding challenges faced by the postal service, Holomisa raised crucial questions about the reasons behind the Post Office’s decline, particularly in contrast to the flourishing courier industries in South Africa.
“Is the inefficiency and poor service of the Post Office the real reason why it is being made redundant by customers?” Holomisa queried, drawing attention to the thriving courier sector and the rapid advancements in communication technologies that have replaced traditional mail services.
The UDM President pointed out the broader trend of mismanagement within state entities inherited from the Apartheid government, citing the deteriorating infrastructure of the Post Office and many others. He highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive revitalization rather than mere financial injections, as recently announced by the government’s R3.8 billion business rescue bailout intended to restructure and modernize the SAPO.
Holomisa emphasized that the SAPO must become responsive to its primary client base in rural areas. He urged the Post Office to conduct market research to understand the specific requirements of these communities, proposing diversification of financial services, such as offering insurance, to meet their needs.
However, he stressed that, above all, the core responsibility of the Post Office is to fulfill its basic function—delivering mail and packages promptly and efficiently.
“That is their core business, and that is where their focus should be,” Holomisa emphasized.
The UDM calls for urgent intervention and thorough investigations into the state of affairs at the SAPO, demanding accountability and immediate action to address the neglect that threatens the essential services provided by the national postal system. As concerns grow over the future of the Post Office, the UDM remains steadfast in its commitment to advocate for effective governance and service delivery for the benefit of all South Africans.
