The Pienaar community in Mpumalanga has been plagued by a crippling lack of social services, including vital support such as social grants, counselling, and pauper burials. The crisis began several months ago when the Department of Social Development's (DSD) offices were abruptly closed. The community and the department are now embroiled in a bitter dispute, with each side trading accusations. The community alleges that the department flouted hiring guidelines, appointing friends and associates to key management positions, while the department claims the community locked its gates without justification. To shed more light on this contentious issue, Elvis Presslin spoke to Pienaar Community Spokesperson, Sthembiso Sithole