The Democratic Alliance (DA) will submit formal follow-up questions to the MEC for Sports Arts and Culture, Jerry Maseko and the MEC for Education, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, demanding confirmation on the completion of the investigation into the Bloemfontein athletics disaster. They must provide reasons for the delayed release of the report, disciplinary actions taken and a clear deadline for its public release
This follows the failure of the Limpopo Provincial Government to release the promised investigation report into the shocking withdrawal of Team Limpopo from the SA Schools Athletics Championship in Bloemfontein from 2 to 6 April 2025.
On 11 April 2025, Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba publicly apologised and committed to a full investigation, with a report to be concluded within one month. That deadline has now passed, and no report has been made public.
During the Portfolio Committee meeting held on 6 May 2025, I personally reminded MEC Jerry Maseko of this commitment and requested clarity on the status of the investigation. Despite this, no feedback has been forthcoming and the report remains concealed.
This silence is unacceptable. The investigation relates to the inhumane treatment of Limpopo learners — including sleeping on buses, lack of food, and failed accommodation — due to shocking administrative negligence.
The Premier’s own words acknowledged that this was not an isolated incident, but a pattern of negligence. If government is serious about accountability, it must act — and be seen to act — without delay.
The DA demands that the full investigation report be released immediately. Learners, parents, educators, and the people of Limpopo deserve the truth, justice, and meaningful reform — not bureaucratic silence.