By OBAKENG MAJE

The African National Congress in the North West has called for thorough investigations after the house of the North West MEC for Cooperative, Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Lenah Miga was gutted by fire at Makhubung village near Mahikeng on Wednesday night.

According to the Mahikeng Fire Station station commander, Michael Matlawe, people who were in the house at the time allegedly said the fire started in the part of the house where their bedrooms are situated.

“The family noticed a huge flame while they were watching television in the lounge, but they were fortunate enough to exit the house in time without suffering any injuries. The Mahikeng Fire Services was alerted by the incident at around 8:18pm.

“They immediately dispatched to the scene with their fire engine and managed to contain the fire. However, some parts of the house were completely destroyed, while the main structure also had some fire damage,” Matlawe said.

ANC IPC spokesperson, Kenny Morolong said: “We have learnt with utter shock an incident of a fire that broke out at the private residence of Miga. The ANC wishes members of her family, who were inside the house a speedy recovery after they were treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries.

“We call on law enforcement agencies to conduct a speedy and rigorous investigation into this incident.”

North West Premier, Bushy Maape also shared the same sentiments. Maape said he is pleased that despite this unfortunate incident, no life was lost and there were no injuries sustained by any of the occupants when the house caught fire.

Meanwhile, Miga spokesperson, Tsholofelo Mathibedi said Miga has been shattered by the incident.

“You will remember that a few years ago, Miga’s car was torched and now is the house. However, even though she is devastated, she still believes that justice will prevail. She was also grateful that no one has sustained injuries and her family members evacuated the house unharmed,” said Mathibela.

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