Statistics South Africa (Statssa) has moved swiftly to suspended eight census field workers over alleged nepotism.

The suspensions came after communities of Phalawubeni and Mathura had accused a Statssa coordinator, Nkhesani Ngoveni, of hiring his relatives. Subsequently, the communities boycotted the census.

Lizah Ngovena and Tebogo Ngovena are both said to be Ngoveni’s sisters, while Olga Mbombi, Loyd Mavulwani and Lonah Mavulwani are allegedly his cousins. It is alleged that Tumelo Selepe and Percy Mabunda are also related to him.

The provincial executive manager for Statssa, Thabelani Mokwevho, confirmed the suspensions. “We have ensured that the counting will resume without any hiccups to cover the lost time,” said Mokhevho

The Civic spokesperson, Mr Peter Mathebula, said the two communities were now relieved after the suspension of the eight. “As communities, we are giving South Africa a message to fight hard against nepotism and corruption within our society,” said Mathebula