Daily Archives: May 6, 2025

DA: “Power struggles in Mahikeng Local Municipality disrupt governance and fail communities”

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 May 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it strongly condemns the ANC factional battles in Mahikeng Local Municipality (MLM), which continue to sow confusion, disrupt governance, and betray the residents of Mahikeng. The DA said yesterday, the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB), convened a public participation meeting at the Mmabatho Civic Centre to deliberate on proposed ward delimitations.

The DA Mahikeng Caucus Chief Whip, Neo Mabote said, however, in a clear act of defiance, the Speaker of Council, Gagoangwe Mathe, issued a conflicting notice and convened a parallel meeting at the Lonely Park Multipurpose Centre, despite formal authorisation designating the Civic Centre as the sole venue. Mabote said this resulted in two competing gatherings.

“While the executive mayor, Tshepiso Mphehlo, the Single Whip of Council, Monametsi Moeti and the Municipal Manager, Dineo Mongwaketse, honoured the MDB meeting at the Civic Centre, the Speaker refused to cancel the Lonely Park gathering, even after being instructed to do so.

“As a result, community members were left stranded, confused and disenfranchised. This is yet another instance where ANC infighting is undermining the work of the municipality and even affecting external stakeholders, following similar incidents involving the Public Protector and the Auditor-General,” he said.

Mabote further said these power struggles have paralysed service delivery and collapsed governance in Mahikeng. He added that the DA will submit formal requests for detailed information on all expenditure incurred for both conflicting events, with the intention of identifying any instances of fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

“Should such expenditure be uncovered, we will call for full accountability and consequence management in line with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), including disciplinary action against officials and political office-bearers responsible for authorising unnecessary spending.

“The DA reiterates that the only solution to end this dysfunction is for residents to vote out the failing ANC government and elect a DA-led administration that prioritises accountability, service delivery, and good governance,” said Mabote.

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919 suspects arrested during Operation Shanela

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Picture: The police seized firearms during raids

By REGINALD KANYANE

6 May 2025- The weekly Joint Law Enforcement operations conducted under Operation Shanela, have resulted in the arrest of suspects and the seizure of illegal contrabands, including three illegal firearms, a variety of drugs, liquor and dangerous weapons.

In the space of a week from 28 April to 4 May 2025, a total of 919 suspects were arrested for a variety of crimes. The suspects, include 18 for murder, four for robberies, eight for attempted murders, 19 for burglaries, 103 for assaults, three for illegal dealing of drugs, 90 for possession of drugs, 17 for selling of liquor without license, 46 for driving under the influence of liquor, 33 for malicious damage to property and seven for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said during these operations, 43 illegal migrants were apprehended for contravention of Section 49 of the Immigration Act, 2002 and are currently being processed through the courts before being deported by the department of Home Affairs back to their countries. Myburgh said 355 out of the 919 arrested suspects were circulated wanted suspects, after they were positively linked to the committed crimes through forensic DNA leads.

“In Tshidilamolomo and Atamelang, information received led the police to various addresses, where seven suspects were traced and three firearms confiscated.

“These firearms were allegedly stolen during a housebreaking and theft case reported between 12 and 20 September 2024, in Tshidilamolomo. Fredy Tsokonya (33), Donald Kamanyane (42), Hendrick Lethobeng (22), Aobakwe Mogwasi (18) and Tshepang Tsokonya (27), briefly appeared before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mmabatho on charges of housebreaking and theft,” she said.

Myburgh further said they were all remanded in custody until their second court appearance on 9 May 2025. She added that Lawrence Rambo Gabonewe (35), who was found in possession of a firearm in Atamelang, appeared before the same court on 2 May 2025.

“He was granted R2000 bail and his next court appearance will be on 9 May 2025. The last suspect, Cacious Patrick Kamanyane (38), was also found in possession of two firearms in Tshidilamolomo and appeared before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court on a charge of possession of unlicensed firearms on 2 May 2025.  

“He was granted R1000 bail and his next court appearance will be on 30 June 2025. The public is advised to report crime at your nearest police station or anonymously through the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the MySAPS application,” said Myburgh.

She said extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion hotline on 080 091 1011.

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Police urge public to be cautious when using ATMs

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By OBAKENG MAJE  

6 May 2025- The police in the Northern Cape said it is increasingly concerned about ATM-related scams reported. The police said the members of the public are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant when using ATMs.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Molefi Shemane said safety tips are recommended. Shemane said the public should be alert and aware of their surroundings before and after using an ATM.

“Never disclose your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone under any circumstances. Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it in close proximity to your card. Only insert your card when prompted by the ATM screen.

“Avoid using ATMs with blank screens or those located in poorly lit or secluded areas. Shield the keypad with your hand and body while entering your PIN. Keep a close eye on the card slot to prevent skimming or card swapping,” he said.

Shemane further said people should not accept assistance from strangers at ATMs. He added that they should be cautious of individuals attempting to distract them—criminals often operate in groups.

“Should your card be retained by the ATM, contact your bank’s toll-free stop-card line immediately. Do not allow others to call the bank on your behalf—they may be attempting to deceive you.

“Security personnel stationed at ATMs are there to deter criminal activity and are not authorised to assist with transactions. If assistance is required, consult with a bank official directly,” said Shemane.

He said they should consider setting a daily ATM withdrawal limit at their bank branch for added security. Shemane said the police encourage the public to report any suspicious activity or criminal incidents by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.

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Committee won’t call podcaster, Macgyver “MacG” Mukwevho to account over his utterances against media personality, Minnie Dlamini for now

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Picture: Podcaster, Mcgyver “MacG” Mukhwevho

By BAKANG MOKOTO

6 May 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities met this morning to discuss and consider, amongst other things, a request from the Deputy Minister of Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Steve Letsike. This comes after Letsike has referred comments made by podcaster, Macgyver “MacG” Mukwevho about media personality, Minnie Dlamini, to the committee for investigation.

In her opening remarks, the Chairperson of the Committee, Liezl van der Merwe, said she took a dim view of the committee being dragged into this matter on social media by commentators and members of the public, when the committee has not as yet considered the matter. Der Merwe said several erroneous reports indicated that the committee had resolved to call MacG to account to the committee, which is not factual.

“Following deliberations, the committee emphasised the committee’s mandate and in conclusion, on behalf of the committee, to add my voice to that of the Ministry in condemning the comments made by MacG and rejecting them with the contempt they deserve.

“We are recommitted to do more in the fight against Gender-Based Violence. The committee resolutions are that they will support the Deputy Minister in approaching the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa,” she said.

Van der Merwe said the committee will support the Deputy Minister in referring the matter to the Commission for Gender Equality for further investigation. She added that the committee encourages Dlamini to open a case of cyber-bullying, Gender-Based Violence or harassment with the relevant law enforcement authorities.

“The committee will keep a keen eye on developments at the PC on Communications and Digital Technology, which seeks to regulate online content. The committee will further engage on matters of GBV in its next meeting with the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities.

“The committee will also receive a legal opinion on the committee’s mandate vis-à-vis hearing complaints such as those of the Deputy Minister,” van der Merwe.

She said despite countless erroneous media reports, the committee has resolved not to call MacG to appear before the committee at this stage.

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‘The university is misleading the public’

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 May 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Tebogo Letsie said he has noted with grave concern the deliberate dissemination of false information by the University of Limpopo (UL) regarding its compliance with a parliamentary summons. Letsie said following verification through the Office of the Secretary to Parliament, it has been established that the university’s claims that it had submitted the requested information are entirely false.

He further said the Secretary to Parliament has unequivocally confirmed that no such documents were ever received. Letsie added that the University of Limpopo has deliberately misled the public by asserting that it delivered the documents to the Office of the Secretary to Parliament.

“The Secretary has categorically denied this, confirming the university’s failure to comply. This matter is not a personal dispute between me and the university. It is a question of constitutional compliance and institutional accountability.

“We will not be drawn into protracted processes of evasion. Accordingly, we will reissue the summons, specifying in detail the information required, as we had anticipated potential resistance,” he said.

Letsie said the requested documentation is crucial in strengthening oversight and ensuring that institutions of higher learning adhere to principles of good governance, transparency and accountability. He said no institution will be permitted to operate outside the law or undermine Parliament’s authority.

“The committee remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law and to enforce compliance with statutory obligations in the higher education sector,” said Letsie.

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Eight SAPS VIP Protection Unit allegedly assaulted citizens on N1 road acquitted

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Picture: The SAPS VIP Unit allegedly assaulting citizens on N1 road

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 May 2025– The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has learned with shock and dismay of the acquittal, in a South African Police Service (SAPS) internal disciplinary process, of the eight members of the SAPS VIP Protection Unit, who were charged with assaulting a civilian on the N1.

Cameron said it is of the considered view that the ruling is shameful, indefensible and immoral. He further said the acquittal of the members is not only a miscarriage of justice, but also puts the name and image of the SAPS into disrepute.

“Furthermore, this decision strengthens the public perception of SAPS officers being and acting above the law. This decision lacks legal and moral justification and should be reconsidered.

“With the worsening trust deficit between the police and communities, such decisions will further erode the low levels of trust that exist between the police and the people,” said Cameron.

He added that, the ruling entrenches the long-held committee’s view that internal disciplinary mechanisms within SAPS are inadequate and rewards rogue officers. Cameron also said, this decision will further cement the public’s perception of a complete disregard of consequence management within the SAPS.

“This case was an instance of “a thief being caught with the stolen goods”, as there was clear evidence from footage showing the perpetrators kicking a defenceless civilian while brandishing high-calibre firearms.

“The portfolio committee had previously raised concerns about the slow pace of the disciplinary process, but the decision reached today gives the impression of a badly performed tick-box exercise,” he said.

Cameron said this decision sends a wrong message to all South Africans about the lack of recourse when SAPS members abuse their authority. He said it also portrays a SAPS that lacks compassion and care for victims of abuse, one that is preoccupied with protecting each other and not the citizens.

“In addition, the role played by labour unions in stalling the case has undermined due process. This was not due process, but weaponised bureaucracy funded by taxpayers. What is even more infuriating is that the SAPS paid an amount of over R112 000 just for the Chairperson’s expense, which should be classified as fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

“As a result, I will, on behalf of the committee, write to the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner to demand an explanation from the Minister of Police for this outcome, on behalf of the nation and for the victims,” said Cameron.

He said the committee will, for its part, consider legislative reforms to end the abuse of internal processes in SAPS and to limit the obstructive role of unions in misconduct cases. Cameron said they cannot accept a SAPS that protects thugs in uniform.

“We will not sit silently, while the rule of law is trampled upon behind closed doors,” he said.

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NCOP KZN delegation calls for urgent resolution on Go

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By OBAKENG MAJE

6 May 2025 – A National Council of Provinces (NCOP) KwaZulu-Natal delegation, led by Provincial Whip, Mzamo Billy, held a constructive engagement yesterday, with the executive of the eThekwini Local Municipality, including the mayor Cyril Xaba and senior city management. The meeting was a direct follow-up to the September 2024 NCOP Provincial Week oversight programme to assess progress on key public infrastructure projects.

Billy said following in-depth deliberations, the meeting welcomed a resolution that all stakeholders involved in the go. He said the Durban project, including taxi operators, be formally invited to appear before the Select Committee on Public Infrastructure.

“The delegation will accordingly write to the Committee Chairperson, Frederik Badenhorst to consider the decision. This initiative seeks to break the current impasse over equity disputes and ensure inclusive participation in shaping the future of public transport in eThekwini.

“The delegation reaffirmed that delays in the project undermine access and mobility for thousands of commuters and urged swift, transparent resolution of the issues. The delegation also noted progress in other critical service delivery initiatives,” said Billy.

He further said the R270 million Hammarsdale Wastewater Treatment Plant has recorded R52 million in current expenditure and 35% completion, with officials committing to addressing earlier delays relating to design, procurement and funding cycles. Billy added that, at the Kennedy Road Housing Project, the NCOP delegation welcomed the report that 61 housing units have been built to date.

“In a move to strengthen public trust and fair access, the NCOP recommended the implementation of a transparent and accessible housing beneficiary list, a recommendation the City has accepted.

“To ensure continuity, the NCOP delegation has requested quarterly progress reports on both the Hammarsdale and Kennedy Road projects. This reporting will allow parliament to track expenditure, monitor challenges and push for timely delivery to the communities that need it most,” he said.  

Billy said through the effort of the NCOP, these crucial projects have seen great progress. He stressed that as the NCOP, they are resolute in our duty to ensure that public infrastructure investments deliver real, measurable benefits to the people.

“We welcome the city’s cooperation, but will continue to hold them accountable until every commitment is honoured. The NCOP will now escalate today’s resolutions to relevant parliamentary structures and monitor implementation closely in upcoming sittings and oversight visits,” said Billy.

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What is happening at embattled Ditsobotla Local Municipality reminiscent of a coup d’état

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Picture: Two security guards shooting against each other at Ditsobotla Local Municipality/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE  

6 May 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) in North West SAID IT condemns the alleged ANC factional violence that took place under the ‘cover of darkness’ at the Ditsobotla Local Municipality offices in Lichtenburg in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The DA said it is alleged that shots were fired, injuring one individual in a standoff at around 4am on Sunday morning between the legitimately appointed municipal security company, Eagle Springbok Security and the private security, Lifeways Security of the ‘illegitimate’ Municipal Manager pretender, Olaotswe Bojosinyane.

The DA North West spokesperson on Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Christiaan Jacobus Steyl alleged this is the second shoot-out following an incident in March 2025, where two individuals were shot and injured as Bojosinyane attempted to take control of the municipal building in scenes reminiscent of a coup d’état.

“In March, the DA wrote the both the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng and the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General, Patrick Asaneng, requesting the permanent employment of the public order police unit to the Ditsobotla Local Municipality to restore and maintain order.

“Regrettably, our letter went unanswered and, sadly, public order policing has not been deployed. Today, the DA has written to the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, expressing our displeasure with the unprofessional way Asaneng, has engaged with our request and that he immediately mobilise SAPS Public Order Policing Units from outside the North West province to secure the Ditsobotla municipal building,” he said.

Steyl further said the deployment of police to secure the Ditsobotla municipal offices, a critical local state asset, is now immediately necessary, since the continued standoff between the two ANC factions, to which these two security companies appear to have aligned with, is set to deteriorate into further violence that may end in the loss of life.

He added that, despite the North West High Court order rejecting the legitimacy of the ANC/EFF faction led by Molefe Morutse (ANC), Manana Bogatsu (EFF) and Olaotswe Bojosinyane and a Supreme Court of Appeal rejection to overturn the order of the High Court, it appears that these pretenders will stop at nothing to take control of the ailing municipality. Steyl said it is regrettable that private security companies have now allegedly aligned themselves with warring ANC factions in Ditsobotla, perhaps in a bid to secure and maintain long-standing and lucrative contracts.

“Much like municipal officials have aligned themselves with warring ANC factions, all while residents continue to endure life without water and electricity supply.

“Under no circumstances can Ditsobotla residents continue to live under a general state of lawlessness. Law, order and service delivery must be restored,” he said.

Steyl said the DA once again wrote to the Minister of COGTA, Velenkosini Hlabisa, bringing recent developments to his attention and urging him that Ditsobotla must be placed under Section 139(7) national government administration sooner, rather than later. He said they reiterate their call to Ditsobotla residents to sign their petition to secure the national government’s intervention so that they can rescue the municipality from complete ruin. Sign the petition here: https://petitions.da.org.za/p/put-ditsobotla-under-administration

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North West Legislature to Conduct Public Hearings on Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill (B 14B – 2023)

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

6 May 2025- On Wednesday, the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs led by Kgalalelo Makgokgowa, will hold public hearings across the province on the Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill (B 14B – 2023) at the Legislature Auditorium in Mahikeng, Ngaka Modiri Molema District, Sarafina Community Hall in Potchefstroom in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, Kismet Community Hall in Kismet, Vryburg in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District and Rustenburg Old Town Hall in Bojanala District.

Makgokgowa said all hearings will commence at 10h00.

She further said the bill aims to provide for the establishment, functions and powers of the Independent Municipal Demarcation Authority to provide for the criteria and procedures for the determination and redetermination of municipal boundaries. Makgokgowa added that it also set to provide for the delimitation of wards, to provide for the establishment of the Demarcation Appeals Authority, to provide for municipal capacity assessments and to provide for matters incidental thereto.

“The relevant stakeholders have been invited to attend the public hearing. The public hearings will be streamed live on the North West Provincial Legislature Facebook page,” she said.

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Heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in to families of minibus taxi accident victims

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Picture: Fifteen people died in a minibus taxi crash in Eastern Cape

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 May 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport, Donald Selamolela, has sent heartfelt condolences to the families of those who perished in the Eastern Cape minibus taxi crash on Sunday. Selamolela said it was with sadness that so many people perished in this manner.

He further said, according to media reports, 15 people died in a head-on collision on the R63 outside Fort Beaufort, en route to Adelaide. Selamolela added that the accident occurred after midnight on Sunday, when a minibus taxi collided with a van.

“We had begun to see results in our road safety plans this past Easter weekend and then sadly this happened. It is with great sadness that we have to bow in loss of these innocent lives who did not deserve to pass like this.

“South Africans deserve better and we will not tire in making the calls for all road users to always be vigilant and always ensure the safety of others at all times on the road,” he said.

Selamolela reiterated that road safety is everyone’s business.

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