The shocking conditions found at the Bagodile Old Age Home in Jericho, North West, have sparked calls by the IFP for its closure. Not only do the residents live in a filthy environment, some of them are forced to sleep on the floor due to lack of beds.

IFP Spokesperson on Social Development, Ms Helen Makhuba MP, said, "This is a blatant example of people abusing the elderly. The management of the home takes money from the residents' pensions and yet treats them like animals.

They should either be moved to an alternative old age home or a temporary one while the Department of Social Development builds them a new one. Those who run Bagodile should be investigated and have charges brought against them"

The IFP urges The Department of Social Development to find out what happened to the beds and blankets donated to the Home by the department.

"Those workers who took the donated material should be investigated and arrested for theft and punished to the full extent of the law," said Makhuba.