Picture: The Speaker of North West Provincial Legislature, Sussana Rebecca Dantjie
By OBAKENG MAJE
The North West Extended ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) held a meeting today, where they allegedly nominated the Speaker of North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Sussana Rebecca Dantjie, North West MEC for Social Development, Lazarus Mokgosi who is also ANC provincial Deputy Chairperson and ANC PEC member, Lizzy Mokua as candidates for the North West Premiership position.
According to a highly-placed source, six individuals, Sussana Dantjie, Lazarus Mokgosi, Lizzy Mokua, Keneetswe Mosenogi (North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation), Motlalepula Rosho (North West MEC for Finance) and Desbo Mohono (North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development), were nominated.
However, Dantjie topped the list with 44 votes, Mokgosi received 43, Mokua 33, Mosenogi 22, Mohono 17, while Rosho received only 1 vote. Now, top 3 nominees are expected to undergo interviews at ANC Headquarters in Luthuli House, Johannesburg, this week before any appointment to the North West Premiership position can take place.
Final Results
Dantjie 44 F Mokgosi 43 M Mokua 33 F Mosenogi 22 F Mohono 17 F Rosho 1 F
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Picture: North West MEC for Social Development, Lazarus Mokgosi
Picture: The former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A murder and attempted murder case against the former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), is set to be transferred to the Taung Regional Court. Mangwegape, who is out on a R5000 bail, briefly appeared at Taung Magistrate’s Court today.
Mangwegape is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33). On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the establishment that was full to capacity.
It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede. Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them.
Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds. Mangwegape’s case was postponed to 8 July 2024, for the regional court date.
The state also highlighted that it is still waiting for the ballistic test results.
Meanwhile, the ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brothers. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.
“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant.
“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.
Picture: The police engaging with learners in Kimberly/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
The Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit and the Douglas SAPS Social Crime Prevention visited Bongani and Bucklands Primary schools on 30 May 2024, as part of Child Protection Month.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said the campaign formed part of the police recognizing Child Protection Month under the theme: “Protecting South African Children, 30 years on”.
“The team addressed more than 250 learners regarding general bullying, cyber bullying, sexual offences, teenage pregnancy, dangerous weapons, substance abuse, and school discipline.
“The scholars were reminded of their right to be protected, treated with dignity, not to be human-trafficked, to be able to go to school, to be cared for, and not to be treated cruelly,” he said.
Kock further said the children were told to protect and respect their bodies and that of others and also reminded that, if you see something, say something. He added that if they want to report a crime, they can call 08600 10111.
“You can also call the Child line for help on 0800 0555 55. Caring communities protect children,” said Kock.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu said in celebrating the country’s 30 years of freedom and democracy, they had launched the Child Protection Week campaign at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, in Kimberly on 19 May 2024.
Zulu said the National Child Protection Week is commemorated in the country annually to raise awareness of the rights of children as articulated in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and Children’s Act (Act No. 38 of 2005).
“The campaign is led by the Department of Social Development in partnership with key government departments and civil society organisations, rendering child protection services.
“The government calls on all South Africans to support Child Protection Week by ensuring that the most vulnerable in our society do not suffer abuse. It is in our hands to stop the cycle of neglect, abuse, violence and exploitation of children,” she said.
Zulu said children in South Africa live in a society with a constitution that has the highest regard for their rights and for the equality and dignity of everyone. She said protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is not only a basic value but also an obligation clearly set out in Article 28 of the South African Constitution.
“The department has a pilot 24-hour call centre dedicated to provide support and counselling to victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The toll-free number to call is 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV) to speak to a social worker for assistance and counselling.
“Callers can also request a social worker from the Command Centre to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone. You can also get help at Childline South Africa on 116 or Child Welfare South Africa on 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 / e-mail: info@childwelfaresa.org.za,” said Zulu.
Picture: Ikhutseng Primary School in Vaaltyn village in deplorable condition
By OBAKENG MAJE
The residents of Vaaltyn village, near Taung said, they welcome the North West Department of Education’s plans to construct a new state-of-art school in their area. A week ago, the residents embarked on a poor service delivery protest amongst others, demanding the new school.
One of the residents, Edwin Motshidi, alleged that the Ikhutseng Primary School is in deplorable condition and it might be hazardous to the learners. Motshidi said, however, they are grateful that the department addresses their educational and social needs at last.
“Schools play a crucial role in meeting the unique needs of the local community, especially in far-flung areas like Vaaltyn. They are more than just centres for learning because they are important for promoting social cohesion and preserving community identity.
“Since the department promised to build the school many years ago. It was disheartening to be told about rationalization due to the low number of learners after so many years of waiting,” he said.
Another resident, Keboneilwe Mampe (63) shared the same sentiments. Mampe said the Ikhutseng Primary School was built by a community using mud bricks. Mampe further said they have waited for a proper school for many years.
“We are finally happy that at least the department will build a new school. We continued to be ignored by the government, simply because we are in deep rural areas. Honestly, our government was supposed to put more focus in rural areas due to unique challenges experienced here.
“We often have overcrowding with limited resources. Also, geographical isolation can make it challenging to provide quality educational opportunities as many qualified educators do not want to come and teach here. So, the government must know that schools in rural areas are vital in nurturing education and fostering community.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said: “The department has made a commitment to build a new school in Vaaltyn. The school building is planned for the 2024/25 financial year. We can also highlight that budget allocation is not yet known as plans are unfolding.
“What we can confirm is that the school will comprise 12 classrooms, admin, NSNP kitchen and grade R classrooms. The department is aware of the state of the buildings, hence it planned to build a new school.”
Molokwane said the department intended to build a new school as renovations to Ikhutseng Primary School will not be a solution. He said they are waiting for the budget adjustment at the end of September 2024.
Monna wa dingwaga di le 28, o solofetswe go tlhagelela ka borepana kwa kgotlhatshekelo ya Taung fa Seetebosigo a tlhola matsatsi a le 27, mono ngwaga. Seno se tla morago ga ma gatwe a gore, Keorapetse John Teele, a itatlhele kwa seteisheneg sa go vouta kwa sekolong se se golwane sa St Paul’s ka Laboraro a sa memiwa.
Go begwa fa Teele a ne dirisa dikgoka go kopana le mokapelo wa gagwe (36), morago ga gore ba nne le thefosano ya mafoko mo mosong wa letsatsi leo. Go begwa fa mokapelo wa ga Teele, ene ele motsamaise mogolo wa Independent Electoral Commission (IEC presiding officer) ka motlha wa tiragalo e.
Go ya ka bo marata-helele, go begwa fa Teele yo o fitlhetseng fa gone go balwa divouto, a ne a tshwerwe sebetsa sengwe, mme maikaelelo a gagwe ene ele go ntsha mokapelo wa gagwe dikgobalo.
Fela, sepodisi se ile sa tsereganya ka nako, mme sa laela Teele gore a ba tswele ka dikgoro, gonne go sa letlelelwa batho ba eseng badiri ba IEC, kgotsa baemedi ba makoko a sepolotiki (party agents).
Kgabagare, sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Warrant Officer, Tryphosa van Rooyen are: “Ke nnete sepodisi se butse kgetsi kgatlhanong le Teele, mme o tla tlhagelela kwa kgotlhatshekelo ka 27 Seetebosigo 2024.”
The residents of Vaaltyn village in Taung have applauded the North West Department of Health for coming up with innovative models in addressing their healthcare needs. This comes after the department brought a mobile healthcare clinic to the area on a weekly basis.
A week ago, the irked residents embarked on a poor service delivery protest, amongst others, demanding a mobile clinic.
One of the community leaders, Keabetswe Modisaotsile said it has been a while since the mobile clinic visited their area. Modisaotsile further said a mobile clinic plays a pivotal role and reduces health disparities, especially among disenfranchised community members.
“We are now happy that vulnerable individuals in our area, including our elders with chronic illness, will have easy access to health facilities. For some people, mobile health clinics are the only means to lifesaving medical treatment.
“For many years, we had access to the mobile clinic only on a monthly basis. This has affected many livelihoods because most residents seeking medical attention have to either go to Reivilo or Mokgareng village,” she said.
Modisaotsile added that affordable healthcare may not be possible without mobile clinic services in their area. She said it is worrisome to see vulnerable people with low-income, continue to face disproportionately negative health outcomes.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Health’s District Director in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Abednego Mvula said: “We have learned with shock that the mobile point at Vaaltyn village is not rendering services to the community. The opening and closing of health facilities is strictly the authority of the North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha and not officials.
“The district has immediately reinstated the services at Vaaltyn. These services will be rendered on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The district has launched an investigation to determine the remedial course of action to be taken against any official for wrongdoing.”
Mvula said the community is further advised to always report inadequacies in service delivery to the district for immediate intervention. He said the department profusely apologise for the lack of services in the area and will uphold a high quality service delivery at this mobile point.
“Regular monitoring and evaluation will be done to establish whether a fixed clinic is required to be prioritised for the Vaaltyn community,” said Mvula.
Picture: The former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A murder and attempted murder case against the former Meat Brothers Pub owner, Tshwaro Mangwegape (41), is expected to resume today at Taung Magistrate’s Court. Mangwegape, who is out on R5000 bail, is accused of shooting and killing the NWU Soccer Institute player, Undivile “Vilo” Mdi (28) and injuring his friend, Aobakwe Ernest Kokwe (33).
On 17 December 2023, Mdi and Kokwe were amongst patrons who visited the establishment that was full to capacity. It is alleged that the security guards refused entry to patrons who did not have Identification Documents (IDs) and that led to a stampede.
Mdi and Kokowe allegedly tried to gain entry forcefully, but Mangwegape allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at them. Mdi was fatally shot, while his friend was rushed to the hospital with terrible gunshot wounds.
Mangwegape’s case was postponed, while the state is still waiting for ballistic test results.
Meanwhile, the ANCYL spokesperson in North West, Molebang Mohlomi said in a statement that, they condemn violence meted against patrons at the Meat Brothers. Mohlomi said it is alleged that security guards and bouncers unleashed live ammunition towards unarmed civilians, who were trying to gain access to the establishment.
“This barbaric behaviour bothers public safety. This shows how business owners lack respect for their clients. A clinical approach to review licences of public places must be applied to ensure those who are bestowed with the responsibility to protect patrons are PSIRA compliant.
“We have sent our heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones. Equally so, we call upon law enforcement agencies to speedily resolve this brutish crime,” he said.
Picture: Prince Motaung has earned national colours in dance
By PHENYO MOKGOTHU
The North West University (NWU) alumnus and coach of the dance team at Mahikeng Campus, Prince Motaung, recently earned national Protea colours. Motaung will also manage and coach the dance team, Omphile Makhobosi and Palesa Mphela, who will represent South Africa at the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF) World Championship’s Under-21 Latin competition on 16 November 2024 in Salaspils, Latvia.
A former dancer himself, Prince boasts an impressive collection of over 200 trophies, more than 150 medals, and various certificates from his six-year dancing career. His notable achievements include winning second place in his section at the 2019 University Sports South Africa (USSA) Annual Dance Tournament, securing first position in the overall opening act out of 22 universities, and achieving third place in the overall tournament, which included both formation and team match categories.
Reflecting on his recent accolade, Prince says receiving national colours is one of the most significant moments in his dancing career.
“Not only does this validate how good we are in the sport, but it also acknowledges our hard work. It has not been easy being one of the youngest coaches in ballroom and Latin dance, however, this milestone has opened so many doors for my and my team’s dancing career,” he said.
Motaung’s achievements highlight his dedication and talent in the dance sport arena, serving as an inspiration for both current and future dancers.
Picture: A house allegedly used as haven by criminals/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Northern Cape said it has recently launched a progressive arm that aims to bring the organisation closer to communities through engagements outside the parameters of the courts.
The Prosecution Manager in the Northern Cape Division, Advocate Mpho Tau said the Community Prosecution(CP) initiative’s objective is to collaborate with various stakeholders to resolve and prevent crime at grassroots levels.
Tau said through the CP programmes, the NPA has been able to host dialogues, outreach events, activations, radio talk shows, television shows and other face-to-face programs with different sectors of the communities.
“During one of these community outreaches in Galeshewe Township, in Kimberley, the community informed us that, there was an abandoned house notoriously known as the Colour Block, which was in a dilapidated state on Hulana Street, Galeshewe, near the City of Kimberley.
“The information received was that many of the wanted criminals would evade arrest and hide at the Colour Block, while continuing to terrorise the community. As part of remedying the situation, we engaged with the owners of the house on how to best assist them with this structure that had become a dangerous haven for criminals,” he said.
He further said the family taking into consideration the safety of their community agreed to have the dilapidated structure demolished, not taking away any right they have to the ERF. Tau added that the NPA through the CP further engaged with the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in Kimberley regarding the use of the demolishing machinery.
“On 30 May 2024, the house was demolished. NPA continues to serve the communities by ensuring justice for the victims of crime by prosecuting without fear, favour, and prejudice,” he said.
A man (38) who posted on his social media page alleging that some people were planning to assassinate the president of Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa during his visit to De Aar on Human Rights Day celebrations, was sentenced to five years imprisonment. Elrico Kaizer Kasper was sentenced by the De Aar Regional Court for cyber fraud.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said: “A disruptive operation consisting of the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team and Crime Intelligence, was operationalised and the team located the said accused.
“Kasper was then taken in for questioning and he admitted to having posted such, citing the frustration of unemployment. He made numerous court appearances until his sentencing.”
Senokoatsane said the NPA welcomed the sentencing of the accused and hoped this sentence will work as a deterrent to other perpetrators of cybercrimes. He said it is important that people should be aware that the dissemination of false information through social media platforms will lead to people being prosecuted.
Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General Steven Mabuela, congratulated the team including the prosecution team for the sterling work done.