16 September 2024- The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on 13 September 2024, postponed the tax and fraud case involving Maphoko Hudson Kgomoeswana to 24 February 2025, for trial. Kgomoeswana is facing charges of fraud and tax evasion valued at approximately R18 million.
These charges relate to his personal and business tax involving his company, Babinatlou Business Services CC between the period 2016 – 2018. The offences were discovered during the investigations into the alleged corruption at the Kusile Power Station.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA’s) Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Kgomoeswana allegedly failed to submit personal tax returns and Babinatlou’s income tax returns and with such an omission, he caused the employees of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to believe and accept that the company was not earning an income that would compel him as the sole member to submit its income tax returns.
“He is out on a warning, and the court warned him to avail himself when trial commences,” he said.
16 September 2024- On Wednesday last week, the leaders of the parties that form the Government of National Unity (GNU), met to reflect on how the GNU is working. Three months have passed since 10 parties represented in Parliament signed a Statement of Intent committing themselves to work together in government and parliament to advance the country’s interests.
The parties agreed to certain fundamental principles, including to respect the constitution and the rule of law and to promote accountability, transparency, integrity and good governance. The parties also agreed on a common minimum programme that would form the basis of the work of the GNU.
At its first Cabinet Lekgotla in mid-July, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, drawn from the GNU partners, together with Directors-General and other officials, developed priority actions to give effect to the minimum programme. Since these priority actions were outlined in the Opening of Parliament Address on 18 July 2024, Ministers and Deputy Ministers have been hard at work to implement the tasks assigned to them.
For a few Ministers and Deputy Ministers, being in the executive is a new experience and for some it has been quite an adjustment. But with the support of their departments, they have all hit the ground running.
Across all parties, Ministers and Deputy Ministers are making headway in confronting the challenges the country faces. What is significant – and most welcome – is that the members of the executive have undertaken their work as part of a cabinet collective.
Although they are drawn from different parties, they have pursued the common GNU programme. They have worked in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration as Cabinet colleagues to serve the interests of the South African people.
They have each understood their role in advancing the three strategic priorities of the 7th democratic administration. The priorities are clear – a commitment to drive inclusive growth and job creation.
A clear focus to reduce poverty and to tackle the high cost of living. A resolve to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. Ministers and deputy ministers have been focused not on the interests of their respective parties, but on the common mandate they have received to build and develop the country.
There was general agreement among the party leaders last week that the GNU has made a good start. They believe that the GNU is working well and that everyone is playing a constructive role.
As party leaders, we nevertheless recognise that the parties in the GNU represent a range of political and ideological perspectives. There are issues on which we disagree and there will be times when differences between the parties will become more apparent.
A case in point has been the debate around the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, which I signed into law last week. Even as the leaders were meeting last week, some parties in the GNU were publicly urging me not to sign the Bill, while others were saying that I should sign the Bill.
The constitution is quite clear on the responsibilities of the President with respect to signing legislation. Once a Bill has been passed by parliament, the president must either assent to the Bill or, if they have reservations about its constitutionality, refer it back to parliament.
Since, after considering all the various submissions, I had no such reservations about the BELA Bill, the Constitution obliged me to assent to it.
However, even as I signed the Bill, I noted that some of the parties in the GNU said they wanted to engage each other on parts of the bill dealing with issues of school admissions and language. To give the parties time to discuss these issues, I said we would delay implementation of the Act in order for parties to engage and come up with proposals, if any, on the relevant clauses.
In taking this approach, we are seeking to establish a culture of openness and dialogue among the GNU parties. We are also drawing on a long history in South Africa of engagement among parties on matters on which they seem far apart.
As times, agreement can be reached when matters come to a head at the last minute enabling all parties to focus on finding solutions and discovering that there is more that unites them than what separates them. We cannot guarantee that the parties that have requested timeout to engage will reach agreement on every difficult issue.
But we need to make every effort to find common ground. Following the meeting of party leaders last week, I am even more convinced that the GNU is essential for the growth and development of the country.
I am convinced that the GNU will not only survive, but that it will thrive. South Africans expect the GNU to succeed, and we will not let them down.
16 Lwetse 2024- Monna wa kwa motseng wa Mokgareng, gaufi le Taung, Thatayone Monnahela, yo o ileng a tshwarwa mabapi le kgetsi ya bogodu jwa leruo, o solofetswe go tlhagelela kwa kgotlha-tshekelo ya Taung mo letsatsing la gompieno.
Monnahela, one a ntshediwa lekwalo-tshwaro morago ga gore a bidiwe kwa kgotlha-tshekelo, mme a seo. Fela, lekwalo-tshwaro leo le ile la shutlhiwa morago ga gore a fitlhe thari. Go begwa fa Monnahela ga mmogo le molatofadiwa nae o a sentseng a tsene ka lenga la seloko, ba ile ba utswa leruo. Fela sepodisi se ile sa kgona go tshwara Monnahela, mme se sentse se le mo motlhaleng wa mmelaelwa o mongwe.
12 September 2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy said they have met with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) to discuss the rationale behind the approved electricity tariff increases for the 2024/25 financial year.
During the presentation, NERSA outlined the Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD) methodology, emphasising its role in ensuring Eskom’s sustainability while balancing the economic realities facing consumers.
The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy, Nonkosi Mvano said the regulator explained that the decision was based on a thorough assessment of Eskom’s operational costs, revenue requirements, and the need for cost-reflective tariffs to maintain a reliable electricity supply.
“Committee members raised several pressing questions about the tariff increases. One member inquired about the criteria used by NERSA to determine the allowable revenue for Eskom.
“In response, NERSA explained that the evaluation process includes a comprehensive review of Eskom’s financial statements, operational efficiency and the impact of external factors such as inflation and economic growth,” she said.
Mvano further said concerns about the affordability of electricity for low-income households were also voiced, with members questioning how the increases would affect those already struggling with energy poverty. She added that NERSA acknowledged these concerns and highlighted ongoing government initiatives aimed at providing relief, including the Free Basic Electricity policy and targeted subsidies for vulnerable consumers.
“However, members expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of these initiatives, citing reports of inadequate implementation and outreach to eligible households. “Some committee members also had questions about the integration of renewable energy sources and how this transition could influence future tariff structures,” said Mvano.
She said members of the committee expressed interest in understanding how NERSA plans to support the growth of renewable energy, while managing the tariff increases. Mvano said NERSA outlined its commitment to facilitating the transition to a more sustainable energy mix, acknowledging that while renewable energy can contribute to long-term cost savings, the initial investments and the current reliance on traditional energy sources must be carefully managed to avoid an undue burden on consumers. “Committee members also had concerns about the transparency of NERSA’s decision-making process and the perceived disconnect between the regulator’s assessments and the lived experiences of consumers. “The committee questioned the adequacy of stakeholder engagements and queried whether NERSA adequately considered the public’s input in its final decisions,” she said.
Mvano said NERSA affirmed its commitment to public engagement, noting that it regularly conducts public hearings and invites stakeholder input before finalising tariff adjustments. She said, however, members called for more robust mechanisms to ensure that consumer voices are genuinely reflected in regulatory decisions.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientso Ramokgopa, emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring energy security while considering all the socio-economic challenges South Africans endure.
Ramokgopa said it is imperative to engage with stakeholders to develop sustainable energy solutions and expressed the hope that the discussions would lead to more effective strategies for addressing energy poverty.
“The committee noted with concern the long-term implications of continuous tariff increases, particularly their impact on small businesses and economic growth.
“Committee members highlighted the risk that rising electricity costs could stifle entrepreneurship and deter foreign investment, ultimately hindering job creation,” he said.
12 September 2024 – Thalente Mbatha scored another dramatic late strike for Bafana Bafana as the South Africans beat South Sudan 3-2 in added time to win this away 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier at the Juba National Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The hosts thought they had forced a 2-2 draw until Mbatha struck in the 93rd minute from outside the box to win the game in dramatic fashion, coming just days after he scored a similar goal against Uganda in added time that ensured a share of the spoils in an AFCON qualifier played at Orlando Stadium on Friday night.
The hosts were the first to find the back of the net after Tito Odong Okello converted from the penalty spot in the 15th minute. But Bafana Bafana responded almost immediately when Oswin Appollis equalised two minutes later. Appollis increased the lead to 2-1 when he scored just before the halftime break.
But the home side levelled matters when Yuel Kuach equalised in the 58th minute. Then, second half substitute Mbatha entered the fray when he scored the crucial winner during added time.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos was happy after winning the three points in such dramatic fashion but added that he was not satisfied with the performance. He felt that his team could have wrapped up the game in the first half.
“I thank the good Lord upstairs, He was with us in this game, and also against Uganda (in the 2-2 draw last Friday). But we played better against Uganda, today we didn’t really play our best game. We should have done better. If we had done better, I think the score should not be 3-2, but maybe 5-2 or something for South Africa,” he said.
South Sudan coach Nicolas Dupuis: “I can say I am very proud of my players because it was against South Africa. They are very good players. It is a very, very good team, one of the best in Africa actually. So, I am very proud of the players.”
Bafana Bafana will now begin the journey back home on Wednesday, 11 September 2025 via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Picture: Former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Radikashu Isaac Tsie (44), was arrested by the Hawks for alleged fraud/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
Former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Radikashu Isaac Tsie (44), was arrested by the Hawks for alleged fraud amounting to R460 000. Tsie briefly appeared in the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court on 11 September 2024.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in the North West, Sivenathi Gunya said Tsie was arrested on Wednesday morning by the members of the Mahikeng-based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation in Lichtenburg. Gunya said his arrest follows an investigation into allegations of fraud relating to the procurement of legal practitioner’s services for the embattled municipality.
“The investigation revealed that in May 2021, Tsie and his co-accused, Thouret Mampe Thabe Tiro, the Director of Tiro Attorneys (PTY) LTD and the former acting Director of Corporate Services at the Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Tsietsi Isaac Shema, allegedly connived to defraud the municipality of over R460 000 for services, which were never rendered.
“Tiro and Shema were arrested last week. It was uncovered during the investigation that Tiro Attorneys submitted invoices to the municipality for legal services he claimed to have rendered. Tsie and Shema reportedly approved payment for services that were never rendered. The trio is facing four (4) counts of fraud and an alternative theft charge,” he said.
Gunya further said Tsie made a brief court appearance and was released on R5000 bail. He added Tsie will join his co-accused when they re-appear in court on 4 October 2024.
“Tiro and Shema are out on R8000 bail each,” said Gunya.
Meanwhile, the North West Hawks Head, Major General Patrick Mbotho and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, have welcomed the latest arrest. They have commended the collaborative work between the investigation and prosecution in ensuring that the accused are brought to justice.
Picture:Some of delegates during capacity-building sessions/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
12 September 2024- The SAPS Division for Visible Policing and Policing is currently conducting a capacity building at SAPS Gymnasium in Kimberley. A two-day session focusing on vulnerable groups and victim empowerment environments at the Kimberley SAPS Gymnasium.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the workshop will also focus on mental health care, sexual related matters, the prevention and combating of trafficking in persons. Kock further said the work session is scheduled for 11-12 September 2024, and is attended by Northern Cape Provincial SAPS officials, SAPS officials of all five Districts, District Social Crime Co-ordinators and Human Resource Development, Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, the Family Violence, Child Protection, Sexual offences unit members and Station members.
“The day commenced with a devotion and a welcoming address by the Provincial Head for Proactive Policing, Brigadier Irene Kopeledi. The Provincial Commander for Crime Prevention, Colonel Maggie Ndzutha, introduced the panel and workshop attendees.
“Lieutenant Col Johanna Molefi from SAPS Division: Visible Policing and Operations focused on Child Offenders and Children at risk. She also outlined the purpose of the day and Implementation of the Child Justice Act 75 of 2008 and Children’s Act 38 of 2005,” he said.
Kock added that Colonel Tsholo Selepe of SAPS Division: Visible Policing and Operations, dealt with sexual offenders and the trafficking in persons and the importance of daily operations of having a Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Desk at police stations. He said Selepe touched on capacity-building envisaging to enhance knowledge on the SAPS National Instruction and Standing Operational Procedures and regulative prescripts aligned to GBVF.
“Colonel Samuel Lekganyane, who is responsible for Victim Empowerment and persons with special needs relayed information bordering on protection of vulnerable groups such as victim witnesses, older persons, disabled, LGBTIQ+ and the programs relating to these groups.
“He also enlightened the attendees of the implementation of the victim friendly services and centres. The session will officially conclude on 12 September 2024,” said Kock.
12 September 2024- A man (56) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Kimberley High Court for murder. This comes after the accused, Derrick Fyvers killed a man (29) in Verwoerd Park in Kimberley on 8 September 2016.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said Fyvers and his accomplice, approached a well-known guesthouse in Green Street in Verwoerd Park, Kimberley under false pretence. Sam said they pretended to be guests, who were looking for accommodation, but their intent was to rob the guesthouse at gunpoint.
“The deceased who was awoken by a commotion and the screaming of the receptionist, was fatally shot when he went to investigate. Fyvers, who is a repeat offender, was arrested and found guilty.
“He was sentenced to 5 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, life imprisonment for murder, 10 years imprisonment for possession of an illegal firearm and additional 10 years imprisonment for possession of ammunition,” he said.
Sam further said Fyvers’ accomplice, Marlon Koopman (40), was sentenced to 5 years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances He added that both accused were declared unfit to possess firearms.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola said she is delighted and welcomed the life imprisonment sentence handed down to the accused. Otola praised the Serious and Violent Crimes Investigating Officers, Detective Lt Colonel Basil Buys and Detective Warrant Officer Patrick Dibebe, for their thorough and meticulous investigation of the case ensuring the lifelong incarceration of Fyvers.
“The police remain focused in ensuring that justice is served for victims of violent crimes by strengthening the investigative capacity of the police. The police are encouraging the public to rate the police efforts in fighting crime by participating in the “RATE OUR SERVICE” online survey to assist the police in improving services” she said.
Picture: Dr Nicholas Keetile, who is an Oncology Pharmacist at Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
12 September 2024- According to Mayo Clinic, which is a private American Academic Medical Centre in Rochester, Minnesota, U.S. said, chemo brain is a common term used by cancer survivors to describe thinking and memory problems that can occur during and after cancer treatment. The clinic said chemo brain can also be called chemo fog, cancer-related cognitive impairment or cognitive dysfunction.
“Though chemo brain is a widely used term, the causes of concentration and memory problems aren’t well-understood. It’s likely that there are multiple causes. No matter the cause, chemo brain can be a frustrating and debilitating side effect of cancer and its treatment.” the website said.
It said researchers are working to understand the memory changes that people with cancer experience. However, chemo brain remains a relatively understudied area in oncology and as such, Dr Nicholas Keetile, who is an Oncology Pharmacist at Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg, has a distinguished career dedicated to advancing our understanding of this complex issue.
Keetile said he is dedicated to advancing the understanding of chemo brain.
“Chemo brain is a term used to describe cognitive impairment caused by chemotherapy, a phenomenon that affects many cancer patients. This condition can manifest as memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and problems with multitasking.
“Thirteen years ago, I started my pharmaceutical career at Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital as an intern. My motivation to specialize in cancer pharmacy was sparked by my awareness of the widespread shortage of licensed cancer pharmacists during this time,” he said.
Keetile further said he learnt about the toxicity of cancer medications, while perusing the specialised position, which is where he saw a need for competent individuals in this field. He added that he decided to train to be a pharmaceutical mixer by studying chemo brain.
“I am the only person in the country studying the phenomenon of brain chemotherapy. I look to find niches that are despaired in pharmacy and extend myself in that regard.
“I have published some highly informative articles on chemo brain in reputable peer-review journals and also actively engaged in research to innovatively discover effective treatments for this debilitation,” said Keetile.
Meanwhile, the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital, Dr Johann Fourie, indicated that there is a cohort of patients managed for chemo brain. Fourie said this is a rare skill of managing cancer patients exhibiting chemo brain symptoms, which benefits patients in Dr Ruth Segomotso Mompati District.
“The benefits entails improvement of cognitive domains and ultimately the overall quality of life. This domain includes memory attention, concentration and executive function. The patients in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, are the only cohorts in South Africa who are receiving specialised care and the feedback from them has been positive,” he said.
Picture: Some of the weapons seized by the police/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
11 September 2024- North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said as part of the roadshow aimed at ensuring school readiness and safety, they have conducted an unannounced visit to Meriti Secondary School in Meriting village, near Rustenburg, on 11 September 2024.
Motsumi said during the visit, the South African Police Service (SAPS) carried out a search and seizure operation as part of their collaboration with the Department of Education through the Adopt-a-Cop flagship program.
“The search uncovered knives, space muffins, marijuana, cigarettes, and an old police belt, raising serious concerns about the presence of illicit items on school grounds.
“Meriti Secondary School has recently experienced a rise in violent incidents, with two learners being stabbed by former students, resulting in their admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU),” she said.
Motsumi further said these incidents have highlighted the urgent need for continued efforts to combat crime and gang-related activity within schools. She added that the search and seizure initiative is part of ongoing efforts to curb crime and prevent gang-related activities from infiltrating school grounds.
“Grades 10 to 12 have been identified as areas of concern and in response, the department has provided psycho-social support and motivational talks to assist the learners.
“The importance of parental involvement in safeguarding learners and ensuring a conducive learning environment. It is crucial for parents to play an active role in their children’s education and well-being,” said Motsumi.
She said they also need to acknowledge the deep impact that psycho-social support has on their learners’ success, especially as they prepare for their final exams. Motsumi said together with the community, they can address the root causes of gang-related issues, which in some cases, may be fuelled by underlying tribal tensions.
“Our visit also aimed to assess the school’s readiness for the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with Meriti Secondary School having an enrolment of 1,730 learners, including 280 Grade 12 learners who will sit for the 2024 final exams,” she said.
The Guardian 