Daily Archives: November 5, 2024

Portfolio Committee resumes public hearings on Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bil

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Picture: The cigarettes 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 November 2024 – The Portfolio Committee on Health will resume public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2022 in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) from 8 until 10 November 2024. The KZN public hearings are the last provincial public hearings on the Bill, following the recently concluded public hearing in the Northern Cape.

The Portfolio Committee on Health of the 6th Parliament, conducted public hearings in seven provinces, and this committee is concluding the public participation process. 

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo said on 25 October 2024, the committee resolved to continue its public participation process following legal advice from Parliamentary Legal Services on concerns about the NEDLAC consultation process. Dhlomo said the legal opinion stated that while the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) has its own internal protocol for considering matters, the NEDLAC Act does not prescribe a specific process that must be followed.

“It also noted that NEDLAC is empowered to continue engaging on the Bill even after it has been introduced in Parliament. It is on this basis that the committee decided to continue with its public participation process.

“The public hearings form part of Parliament’s constitutionally mandated public participation process to consult citizens in law-making. The committee reiterates its commitment to create a conducive platform for constructive inputs on the Bill, irrespective of the views held,” he said.

Dhlomo further said the Bill seeks to strengthen public health protection measures, align South African tobacco control law with the World Health Organization Framework Convention, and repeal the Tobacco Control Act of 1993. He added that the proposed legislative and policy changes seek to introduce indoor public places and certain outdoor areas will be designated 100% smoke-free.

“This includes a ban on the sale of cigarettes through vending machines, plain packaging with graphic health warnings and pictorials, a ban on display at point of sale, and the regulation and control of electronic nicotine delivery systems and non-nicotine delivery systems.

“In Northern Cape, the committee received varying inputs from members of the public and organisations, with some welcoming the Bill because it is a necessary intervention in the context of increasing consumption of tobacco and electronic delivery systems products,” said Dhlomo.

He said those supporting the Bill argued that public healthcare should supersede selfish profit-making by the tobacco industry. Dhlomo said also, supporters of the Bill argued that there was a need to curb access to tobacco products for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the youth, which the Bill provides.

“Those against the Bill cautioned that the Bill would be detrimental to job prospects provided by the industry and would open the market for illicit cigarette trade, which would not benefit the country’s tax revenue base.

“Also, dissenters argued that the intention to introduce plain packaging has the potential to infringe on trademark laws of registered producers of tobacco products, which, according to them, was undesirable. Representatives of the electronic delivery systems industry also called for differentiation between vapes and tobacco products, which they argued was being conflated by the Bill,” he said.

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Former CFO at Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality, Mokgopane Hendrick Thokoane granted R10 000 bail

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Picture: Former CFO at Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality, Hendrick Mokgopane Thokoane arrested by the Hawks/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 November 2024- Former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Lekwa-Teemane Local Municipality, Mokgopane Hendrick Thokoane (45), briefly appeared at Christiana Magistrate’s Court today. Thokoane, who was granted a R10 000 bail, was arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS) yesterday on three counts of fraud and for contravening Section 173(3) of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said during the proceedings, it was revealed that Thokoane, in his capacity as the CFO and Senior Manager of the Lekwa Teemane Local Municipality, was responsible for assisting the Accounting Officer in managing the municipality’s bank account and implementing its budget.

“The investigations found that between April and May 2022, the accused procured services from Thabethe and Co to lease a vehicle for the mayor of the municipality, Sebang Motlhabi, without submitting the necessary documentation to the Office of the Municipal Manager.

“Notably, Thabethe and Co, leased the vehicle to the municipality without receiving a proper request for quotation or submitting any quotation to the Supply Chain Management office,” he said.

Gunya further said Thokoane allegedly misrepresented the circumstances surrounding the lease, falsely asserting that it had the Municipal Manager’s approval. He added that as a result of these misrepresentations, the municipality reportedly incurred a financial loss of approximately R167,600.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed Thokoane’s arrest and commended both the prosecutor and the investigating officer for their efforts in ensuring that the accused appeared in court. Makhari reiterated the NPA’s unwavering commitment to combating commercial crimes and emphasised the importance of upholding justice and integrity within public service.

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A man accused of killing his stepson remanded in custody

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By REGINALD KANYANE

5 November 2024- A man who was arrested in connection with the death of his stepson, Charvandre Kieran Everson (3), will remain in custody. This comes after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed the bail application of Jeremy Bosman (29) in the De Aar District Court.

The NPA regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said Bosman faces serious charges of murder in connection with the tragic death of Everson, along with charges of assault with the intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) against the child’s mother, Charmelle Thys (29).Senokoatsane said the state’s case stems from an alarming incident that occurred on 19 October 2024.

“It is alleged that after Charvandre wet the bed, Bosman reacted violently, repeatedly striking the child on the head with his hands and using a broom to assault him. Reports indicate that he also slammed the child’s head against a wall, leading to severe injuries.

“Witness testimonies and preliminary investigations suggest that these actions rendered the toddler unable to eat or open his mouth. Following a second incident, where Everson again wet the bed, Bosman allegedly assaulted him once more, resulting in visible blood in the child’s mouth and loss of control over his bodily functions,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said the child was left weak and unable to move his legs. He added that realizing the gravity of his actions, Bosman reportedly instructed Thys not to disclose the incidents before taking the injured child to the De Aar New Hospital.

“Unfortunately, upon arrival, medical personnel confirmed that Everson had already succumbed to his injuries. During the examination, staff noted multiple bruises on the child’s body, particularly on his back, prompting them to notify law enforcement due to suspicions of foul play.

“Following a thorough investigation, police charged Bosman with murder and assault with GBH. Bosman appeared in court on 1 November to officially apply for bail. The prosecution opposed bail under Schedule 6, citing the severe nature of the charges and the risk posed by the accused to vulnerable individuals, particularly children,” said Senokoatsane.

He said Bosman was remanded in custody until 5 December 2024. Senokoatsane said NPA is committed to ensuring that justice is served in this tragic case involving domestic violence and child abuse.

“The NPA emphasises the importance of protecting the welfare of children and will continue to work diligently in prosecuting cases that threaten their safety.

“Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the NPA calls on anyone with information to assist the authorities in bringing any additional perpetrators to justice,” he said.

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Six classrooms destroyed by fire at Rauwane

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Picture: The Rauwane Sepeng Secondary School destroyed by fire/Supplied 

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 November 2024- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said they express a deep concern over the recent fire that severely damaged a block of Grade 12 classrooms consisting of six classes at Rauwane Secondary School in Tlhabane, near Rustenburg on Monday. Motsumi said firefighters responded swiftly to the blaze ensuring that all learners and staff were evacuated safely.

“No injuries have been reported as all learners and staff were able to evacuate the premises safely. This tragic event, which has destroyed a vital section of our school infrastructure, is a significant setback.

“This unfortunate event destroying a block of classrooms, is incredibly distressing and represents a significant setback, particularly as Grade 12 candidates are currently undertaking their final exams,” she said.

Motsumi further said this will undoubtedly affect the school’s operations and efforts. She added that they also facing a significant backlog in school construction and maintenance projects, which will be addressed in the 2024–2025 financial year.

“We must prioritise the rebuilding of a safe and functional educational environment. The cause of the fire is still under investigation,” said Motsumi.

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AFU granted confiscation order against Sigamoney

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 November 2024- The Pretoria North Regional Court granted the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) a confiscation order against Sarathamoney Devi Sigamoney (67), after she was convicted on charges of perjury, fraud and theft. Sigamoney defrauded the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) pension pay-outs, while being the sole director of a company that was awarded tenders worth approximately R88 million from the South African Police Service (SAPS), to supply office furniture between 2017 and 2022.

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said the order stipulates that an amount of R138 593.00, together with interest at a prescribed rate of 11.25% per annum, calculated from the date of this order to the date of payment, be paid back to SASSA. Mamothame said the accused was also ordered to provide proof of payment to the state.

“This is the NPA’s strategy to use the forfeiture powers of the AFU to take away the proceeds of crime back to the state, to ensure that crime does not pay. Following her conviction on the matter, sentencing is set for 14 January 2025,” he said.

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Ten visually impaired residents receive pairs of spectacles

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Picture: Some of residents who are virtually impaired receive spectacles/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

5 November 2024- Ten visually impaired residents from Dithakwaneng village, near Vryburg, received pairs of spectacles. The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said this will assure them to improve their vision.

Lehari further this was part of the Thuntsha Lerole Reloaded Accelerated Service Delivery Programme campaign. He added that the spectacles were manufactured at the Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital Eye Care Clinic, which offers same day provision of prescribed spectacles from an in-house Optical Laboratory.

“The centre further performs optical surgical procedures to improve and restore eye complications. It is important for government to provide assistive devices to people with varying impairments and disabilities to improve their quality of life.

“In the past, people were forced to accept the in inevitable and adapt to their circumstances. However, all that has changed as we have introduced intervention mechanisms intending to assist them navigate their health challenges,” said Lehari.

Lehari said his department is determined to reach out to more people and provide restorative devices to enhance their vision. He said they are in the fortunate position to provide excellent eye health care to local people through public health facilities like Joe Morolong and Job Shimankana Tabane

Hospitals, which house on-site ophthalmology services to ensure people are able to have improved vision, which translates to an improved quality of life.

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A trial on a murder case against rapist and co-accused postponed

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Picture: Three of accused in a murder case

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 November 2024- A trial on a murder case against a rapist and alleged murderer, Bakang Katong (32) and his co-accused, Thabang Lenyai (23) and Katlego Mosimege (31), and Phenyo Katong (34), was postponed to Thursday by the Taung Regional Court. This comes after court recording machine malfunctioned.

The accused persons were arrested two years ago for allegedly killing Thabiso Mothibedi (35), in cold blood.

This comes after they accused Mothibedi of stealing R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house in Manthe village, near Taung.

The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said the preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Longaneng village in Taung, when the accused fetched and ferried him back to Manthe village.

“Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted. After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to a local clinic by the accused, however, he was declared dead upon arrival.

“The accused were arrested and charged with murder,” he said.

On 1 May 2022, the community members were up in arms and torched three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family.

The trial will commence on 4-5 November 2024.

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A policeman allegedly kills his girlfriend, a man and injured another before turning the gun on self

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Picture: Policeman, Lesego Eugene Phefo/Facebook

By REGINALD KANYANE

5 November 2024- A policeman (28) allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend, Tlhalefo Setlhare (38), a man and injured another person before turning the gun on himself. It is alleged that, friends were having a house party in Zone 2 in Itsoseng Township, near Lichtenburg on 2 November 2024, when Constable Lesego Eugene Phefo took out a firearm and started shooting.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said Setlhare and a man (name and age to be confirmed), were shot multiple times and died on the scene. Myburgh said Phefo was also found dead at the scene with a gunshot wound to his head and a firearm close to his body.

“The police in Itsoseng are investigating a double murder, attempted murder and inquest cases. The South African Police Service (SAPS) management in the province, mourns the death of Phefo.The fourth person, who was seriously injured was ferried to hopscotch for medical attention.

“The Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) declared the trio dead on the scene,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. Kwena reminded and urged all SAPS employees to use the services of Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) in case of any challenges.

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A murder, attempted murder, kidnapping and arson case to resume in court

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Picture: The torched house of a traditional healer

By OBAKENG MAJE

5 November 2024- The bail application in a murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, malicious damage to property and arson case against nine accused, who were arrested in Modutung village, near Taung, will resume today. This comes after a court recording device malfunctioned yesterday and the magistrate decided to postpone the matter.

Letlhogolo Mothobi (38) and Itumeleng Boikanyo (45), are facing charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and malicious damage to property. Othusitse Oshubile (31), Paul Kwati (43) and Ogopoleng Semau (33), were charged with attempted murder, murder and arson.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Thomas Morakanele (29), Tshepo Sekgetho (31) and Lesego Mongale (34), appeared on a charge of arson. Mokgwabone said the police also arrested the 9th suspect, Lebogang Morakabe (44).

“Morakabe is facing charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and malicious damage to property together with Mothobi and Boikanyo. A multi-disciplinary team assembled to investigate criminal activities that engulfed Modutung village in Taung on 20 October 2024.

“The accused persons were arrested for allegedly committing the crimes after a missing girl, Rethabile Molapo’s burnt body was found and retrieved from an unused pit latrine. Following the discovery and the funeral of Molapo, some community members took the law into their own hands,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said among others, they allegedly kidnapped and severely assaulted the traditional healer’ son, Kopano Legodu, set alight the traditional healer, Omphile Mothusiemang-Legodu’s house and ultimately killed her after she managed to get out of the house. He added that goods were looted from a tavern and a tuckshop, which were then set ablaze.

“The investigations into the matter are underway and the possibility of more arrests cannot be ruled out,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the success and commended the police involved in the investigation, tracing and subsequent arrests of the suspects.

Kwena urged community members to remain calm and work with the police to ensure that all those who perpetrated acts of mob justice and the killing of a young girl are brought to book to face the full might of the law.   

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R51m set aside to compensate nurses and doctors who went beyond duty call 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

5 November 2024- North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari said he is elated to announce that all outstanding 30% exceeding overtime payments, will be paid fully to all employees including nurses and doctors. Lehari and his management have been engaging both labour unions and all healthcare professionals to ensure negotiations are conducted peacefully.

He further said the announcement to unions comes after prolonged discussions for approval of payments with the Office of the Minister of Public Service and Administration (PSA), Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, Provincial Treasury and Office of the Premier. Lehari added that they have convened an urgent meeting with leaders of labour unions to announce this pleasant news.

“This is one of the first issues I found on my desk upon arrival in this department. I am glad that it has now been resolved. We are all aware that government processes take time and we also know that consultation is very crucial when dealing with public funds.

“It may have seemed as if we were moving at a snail pace, but we were not. I want to thank all of you here, that even under extreme pressure to go on strike, you remained very disciplined, understanding the oath you took, to save lives at all material times” he said.

Lehari then announced that a Monitoring Task Team composed of senior departmental managers, representation from all six unions and other stakeholders, should be established to assess and verify employees’ claims and oversee all payments to ensure the process is transparent, fair and hoist an element of accountability. He said his department has budgeted over R51 million to compensate workers, who have rendered their services beyond the 30% overtime payment requirements.

“I need to stress out that as unions, you are now part of the team that will ensure that the process is fast tracked, while eliminating all financial risks. We are working on ensuring that we inject more nurses into the system so that you are not required to be overstretched and work so many hours without immediate compensation,” said Lehari.

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