Forum threatens legal action against minister

THE recent deaths of two young girls and the hospitalisation of an eight-year-old boy over suspected food poisoning from spaza shops have reignited fierce discussions about compliance and regulatory measures in the food retail sector.

- ANITA NKONKI [e-mail]

These concerns were brought to the forefront following an incident in which two girls lost their lives, reportedly after consuming contaminated snacks from a tuck shop in Ramosadi village, Mahikeng. In another case, an eight-year-old boy identified as Omphile from Mapetla, Soweto, is recovering in Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital due to suspected food poisoning from snacks procured at a local shop.

In response to this, the Forum for South Africa (FSA) has revealed its intention to take legal action against the Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Velenkosini Hlabisa over the inaction regarding the non-compliance of spaza shops.

FSA leader, Tebogo Mashilompane, stated their intention to consult with lawyers to discuss possible litigation if the minister does not respond satisfactorily to a series of critical questions.

Speaking to the Saturday Star, Mashilompane explained that they have consulted legal advisers regarding the disregard for compliance, leading to plans to formally engage with Hlabisa.