By OBAKENG MAJE

Young people in North West said a lot still needs to be done in honour of the ‘Class of 76’ as they contributed immensely to the struggle for the liberation of South Africa. Obusitse Modisakeng (24) said it is disheartening to see young people still plagued with socio-economic challenges.

“As the youth, especially in rural areas, we are one of the most vulnerable groups in the society. We are still facing many challenges such as poverty, inadequate education, unemployment, and lack of opportunities.

“On the other side, there is a high rate of crime. We also continue to be victims of teenage pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, drug and alcohol abuse. I think is high time now to be included in decision-making processes and share our thoughts,” she said.

Another young person, Modiegi Tabane (29) shared the same sentiments. Tabane said, as young people, they should raise their voices and advocate for change.

“South Africa is the most unequal country in the world. There is a lack of transparency and honesty amongst our leaders. One might come up with an idea, but if there is no funding for it, forget. Most opportunities are reserved only for the few, who are close to decision-makers.

“So, nothing has changed since 1976, instead, the situation has worsened. There is an elephant in the room, which is corruption that eats what is left for future generations. It is so demoralizing to see many elites getting away with murder after committing malfeasances with impunity,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West University (NWU) principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, who delivered a Youth Day message said, they strive to produce graduates who are equipped to take advantage of the opportunities in the public and private sectors. Tyobeka further said, the skilled youth is such a valuable asset that guarantees the socio-economic development and growth of the country.

“We need to capitalise on their vibrancy, their verve, and their ingenuity. However, they face a litany of challenges that force them to navigate, as they try to reach their dreams and fulfill their potential.

“The youth are the custodians of our future and it is our responsibility to equip them with the tools to succeed,” he said.

The NWU chancellor, Dr Anna Mokgokong said, South Africa is a country with astounding beauty, where vast rivers flow and mountains reach the skies.

“We live in a country, where our expertise is renowned and we are one of the icons of Africa. We also live in a country, where opportunities are not equal and our youth face challenges that can seem insurmountable and it should not be.

“At the North West University, we subscribe to an ethos of care, whilst we also aim to realise the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, which were established to ensure a global society where no person is excluded from their fundamental human rights,” she said.

Mokgokong added that, as a nation, they need the youth to build the future. She said the country needs to allow the young people’s expertise to thrive.

“As the university, we are committed to doing this. The motivation of our youth, their determination, and their unrelenting pursuit of excellence are just some of the bedrocks that make institution and a country to thrive.

“By empowering our youth and giving them the freedom to express their ingenuity, we are aiding to foster responsible citizens. I am proud to be the chancellor of a university that cares, and I am privileged to be part of a community that aspires to define its own tomorrow,” said Mokgokong.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The court interpreter has been sentenced to four years imprisonment by Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court for corruption. In August 2016, Victoria Tepo (47) and her accomplice, who passed away during the course of the trial, solicited a R5000 bribe from a complainant to make the docket disappear.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said, an undercover operation was conducted by the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation. Mamothame further said, this led to the arrest of the duo soon after accepting the gratification from the complainant.

“After making a series of court appearances, the accused was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to four years imprisonment, half of which is suspended for five years. Tepo will therefore serve an effective two years direct imprisonment,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho, together with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentencing and vowed that the two entities will act with swiftness to arrest and prosecute those who are involved in corrupt activities.

Mbotho also applauded the investigation team and prosecution for the successful conviction.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A policeman (38) and other two accomplices aged 20 were arrested in Letlhabile by the Provincial Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit (ACIU), for corruption and theft from a motor vehicle on 14 June 2023. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said, the arrest came after community members allegedly spotted and apprehended two men, who were carrying an engine block in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Mokgwabone said, the suspects were ultimately handed over to the police.

“Whilst awaiting to be transported to a nearby detention facility, the pair who were handcuffed to each other, allegedly overpowered and assaulted a police officer in the Community Service Centre (CSC) before escaping.

“Subsequent to mobilisation of resources, the suspects were re-arrested a few hours later in Letlhabile. The other suspect aged 37, was arrested for aiding the escapees after it was discovered that, he allegedly removed the duo’s handcuffs during their escape. A charge of malicious damage to property is also under investigation,” he said.

Mokgwabone said further investigations into the matter led to the arrest of the policeman. He added that the policeman allegedly conspired with the duo in the theft of the engine block from the exhibit store.

“The duo was charged with possession of the suspected stolen property, escape from lawful custody, assault common (attack on a police officer), malicious damage to property, and theft from the motor vehicle, while the police officer was charged for theft from motor vehicle and corruption.

“All suspects are expected to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 19 June 2023,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the community members and all police units for their diligence and quick reaction that led to the arrest of the suspects. Kwena said corrupt employees, who fail to ‘toe the line’ will not be tolerated within the ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

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Picture: The winner of the Comrades Marathon, Tete Dijana

By OBAKENG MAJE

The winner of the 2023 Comrades Marathon, Tete Dijana said he will not quit his job as a security guard. Dijana, who received a heroic welcome at his hometown, Signal Hill in Mahikeng yesterday, works as a security guard at the North West University (Mafikeng campus).

He further encouraged the youth to be tenacious in what they do. Dijana won the Comrades Marathon for the second consecutive year and set a 5:13:58 record.

“I am so grateful that I managed to win the title for the second consecutive year. There was a lot counting against me including injuries prior to the race. But, I managed to defend my title and what is much sweeter is to set a new record.

“So, my message to young people is, it is never too late to chase your dreams. They should not be discouraged, but through discipline, dedication, and determination, they will succeed. I did not win the competition on my first attempt and I also took part in other competitions and still did not win,” he added.

Dijana’s uncle, Seabelo Taole applauded Dijana for his achievements. Taole said Dijana is a hard worker, who believes in his dreams.

“I am grateful to see that Tete did not give up on chasing his dreams. He had put us as his family and the country at large on the map. We have dignitaries in our yard today, all because of him. I also want to thank his colleagues and all other stakeholders that supported him in his journey,” he said.

The Potchefstroom-based athlete, Adele Broodryk, who finished as a runner-up in the women’s category said: “I am happy to come out as a runner-up in this year’s edition. This was my second attempt and I have learned a lot from my previous participation. I had to adapt to my new training method and come up with a different approach in preparation for this year’s edition.

“What makes me happier is that, I managed to finish the race under the six hours mark. I have run and recorded the third fastest time ever, so I really think that is a big accomplishment for me,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Kenetswe Mosenogi said: “It is amazing to welcome winners in our province. As the department, we will continue to support these athletes and nurture their crafts. As the department, we have club development programs including the school sports programs, where on an annual basis, we have autumn and winter games.

“This is where most of our learners participate. Those who are identified by the federations are supported throughout the academic system by our provincial academy in Potchefstroom. So, in appreciating and recognising these athletes’ sterling performances together with the soccer teams, the department contributed an amount of R2.1 million.”

Mosenogi said Dijana was rewarded with a R500 000 for winning the race back-to-back and setting a new record. She said the former winner, Edward Mothibi, who came in position 3, received R250 000.

“Gordon Lesetedi, who came fourth received R100 000, Johannes Makgetla, who occupied position six, received R50 000, Gift Kelehe who came ninth was awarded R40 000, Joseph who occupied position 10 received R30 000.

“Dijana and Mothibi’s coach, Dave Adams received R150 000, while Broodwyk received R400 000. Dan Matshailwe, who finished second in this year’s Two Ocean Marathon walked away with R150 000,” said Mosenogi.

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Picture: North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Facebook  

By OBAKENG MAJE

North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi is under scrutiny again. This comes after her department allegedly appointed the former Deputy Director-General (DDG) from the Office of the Premier, Buti Chuma to a non-existing portfolio.  

Chuma, who was transferred from the Office of the Premier is appointed as DDG for the Early Childhood Development portfolio, which is ‘non-existence’ at the department. A highly-ranked source within the department said, Chuma was actually demoted to a Director position, even though he still earned a salary of a DDG.

“We know that Chuma was purged and demoted because he was a staunch supporter of the former North West Premier, Supra Mahumapelo. The new ANC leadership continues to purge individuals, who are believed to be in a different faction, now, Chuma has to bear the brunt.  

“He is actually a Director, even though he still earns a salary of a DDG. So, in a nutshell, he is a DDG without a portfolio. They are doing this to keep him quiet and neutralise him. We have a DDG for Institution, DDG for Curriculum and DDG for Cooperative Services. So, DDG for Early Childhood Development is non-existence,” our source said.

However, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said: “Chuma was transferred from the Office of the Premier. The then Premier and the then MEC agreed on the transfer of Chuma. The Premier relied on Section 14(1) of the Public Service Act. So, Chuma is not an Assistant Director as you suggested, but a Deputy Director General (DDG).”

Meanwhile, a week ago, Motsumi was also accused of appointing her ‘crony’, Advocate Tumisang Moremane as the Director of Legal Services without following due process.

The source, who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said: “I am of a view that the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) is bound to collapse. The North West Department of Education has just appointed a lawyer from UNISA to act as Director for Legal Services.

“Moremane is not even an employee in the public service and holds no position. He comes from the University of South Africa (UNISA), where the chairperson of the ANC Provincial Disciplinary Committee (PDC) is working. It is surprising how he is able to act as the Director without being employed,” he said.

He further said this is exactly what the North West Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) is doing by allegedly hand-picking political office appointees to preside over municipalities. The source added that there is another department that is on the verge of doing the same.

“What went wrong? It’s worse because the doers are most senior party leaders. We shall not give up, anyway, this man does not even have a letter to allow him to act, but he is already signing papers and suspending officials. We are being taken for granted,” he said.

The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Elias Malindi and Motsumi spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane failed to respond to the media inquiry, despite being sent to them three weeks ago.

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