23 Jun 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa said he has noted with a great deal of anxiety the entry by the United States of America (USA) into the Israel-Iran war. Ramaphosa said it was South Africa’s sincerest hope that US President, Donald Trump would use his influence and that of the US government to prevail on the parties to pursue a dialogue path in resolving their issues of dispute.
“South Africa calls on the United States, Israel, and Iran to give the United Nations the opportunity and space to lead on the peaceful resolution of the matters of dispute, including the inspection and verification of Iran’s status of uranium enrichment, as well as its broader nuclear capacity,” he said.
23 June 2025- The Congress of the People (COPE) has unveiled a bold plan to fix South Africa’s failing local government system. COPE’s Policy Proposal for Reforming South Africa’s Local Government System tackles governance instability, service delivery failures, corruption and modern challenges like climate change and technology.
COPE’s acting national chairperson, Pakes Dikgetsi said key reforms are stable governance that require two-thirds majority for executive removals and allow flexible coalition formation. Dikgetsi said professional administration is also key with permanent, depoliticised Municipal Managers with NQF9 qualifications.
“To deliver better services, ward-based dashboards, AI-driven maintenance and equitable infrastructure focus will be essential. We must have direct election of mayors, fewer PR councillors and stronger ward committees.
“On the financial health, sustainable revenue, anti-corruption unit and NQF7-qualified CFOs will be imperative. Modern solutions will include integrating traditional leaders, mandate climate plans and boost digital tools,” he said.
Dikgetsi further said their plan consists of comprehensive, evidence-based, and citizen-focused. He added that the practical timeline should be from 2025–2031, with clear accountability.
23 June 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Social Development said it wants to address an issue that affects nearly half of the population, the conditions imposed by National Treasury (NT) on SASSA’s 2025/26 budget. The committee said it also wants to touch on the real-world impact these measures are having on the poor, the disabled, the elderly, and the vulnerable.
The Chairperson of the Committee, Bridget Masango said the NT has attached strict new conditions to the allocation of funds to SASSA. Masango said these include quarterly reporting on suspended, cancelled or reviewed grants, income verification, including database cross-checks with South African Revenue Service (SARS), NSFAS, UIF and Home Affairs as well as biometric authentication for beneficiaries flagged as suspicious.
She further said Treasury argues these steps are essential to combat fraud and ensure value for money and failure to comply by SASSA may result in grant funding being withheld, a deeply concerning possibility for millions who rely on this support. However, Masango added that, as the committee, they are deeply concerned about these conditions, not because they oppose fraud prevention, but because the current implementation is causing delays, confusion, and deep distress among beneficiaries.
“Delays in grant payments are leaving many in limbo, unable to buy food or pay for transport. The requirement for in-person verification is disproportionately disadvantageous to rural communities and elderly caregivers who simply cannot afford to travel.
“Transport costs can reach up to R150 or more per trip, an unaffordable amount for some beneficiaries.
We are being flooded with WhatsApp messages, SMSs, calls and emails from desperate individuals and organisations that represent communities, who are unable to verify themselves. People are being excluded from the system and all of this, as far as we can see, is in the name of saving money,” she said.
Masango said SASSA has defended the verification process as necessary. She said they argue it prevents fraud and ensures accurate targeting.
“They have reminded beneficiaries of their duty to report changes in financial circumstances. That may be valid, but it cannot happen without balancing accessibility with fairness. To ensure accountability, SASSA will now submit quarterly reports directly to the committee, in addition to NT.
“This will allow Parliament to play a proactive oversight role, especially after lessons learned during the card replacement crisis that took place recently. The committee acknowledges the R1.6 billion increase in the 2025/26 grant allocation, intended to fund above-inflation increases,” said Masango.
She said they also note SASSA’s intensifying efforts to fight fraud, such as the rollout of biometric systems, a new tender to assist with identity verification and digital upgrades, including office Wi-Fi, self-service kiosks, and action against fake SASSA websites. Masango said as the committee, they are calling for accessible alternatives for rural and remote communities such as mobile units, remote verification, and community outreach must be prioritised.
Picture: EFF leadership in North West donating schools/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
23 June 2025- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in North West said it is committed to social justice. This comes after the party donated school shoes to underprivileged learners at Pelongwe Primary School in Takaneng village, near Taung recently. The EFF Deputy Secretary in North West, Justice Dabampe said about 30 learners will benefit from this initiative.
He further said the school through Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign (QLTC) gave them the list. Dabampe added that they will return to the school next week to get confirmation of the list of learners who will benefit.
“We did not take the pictures of learners as we believe that, we should not parade them more especially that this is a genuine course. We have today donated school shoes as part of ensuring that we contribute to the conducive environment of teaching and learning.
“We also did an oversight at Pelongwe Primary School and we identified some of the key challenges, which are not limited to the general collapse of infrastructure. The Grade R learners do not have furniture and a proper playground. Toilets are not working properly, some classrooms are in the verge of collapse,” he said.
Dabampe said the school is not a full service school, yet has a need to have such services. He said they will ensure that the North West Department of Education intervenes as the children cannot and will not be subjected to such fire conditions.
“Donating school shoes is crucial for enhancing children’s access to education. These will also boost their confidence, and promote a sense of dignity and belonging. The initiative addresses the practical need for proper footwear, protecting children from the elements and potential hazards while walking to school.
“Furthermore, we urge other role players to take part in these kinds of initiatives. School shoes are a vital part of the school uniform, and donating them can significantly impact a child’s self-esteem and confidence,” he said.
Meanwhile, the CEO of Adopt-a-School Foundation, Steven Lebere said: “Adopt-a-School Foundation is tackling the need of many school children for school shoes. School shoes are part of school uniform wear in South Africa.
“In partnership with local sneaker brand Bathu, Adopt-a-School is driving a school shoes donation campaign to restore dignity and ease the walk to school for learners. But Adopt-a-School isn’t taking this step alone. The organisation is calling for individual and corporate donations to make a difference.”
23 June 2025- The South African Weather Service (SAWS) said another intense cold front is expected to hit the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape from Wednesday to Friday. SAWS said an intense cold front is expected to make landfall on 25 June 2025, over the south-western parts of South Africa, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region.
The SAWS spokesperson, Oupa Segalwe said the system is expected to result in impacts such as heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday. Sgalwe said these include wet and slippery roads that may result in dangerous driving conditions.
“Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. • Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.
“Gale force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5,5 to 7,5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions,” he said.
Segalwe further said coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution. He added that as the system progresses eastwards, it will affect the Eastern Cape, a region already vulnerable to weather related impacts.
“The key concern is the strong damaging winds expected across most parts of the province on Thursday. Interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category.
“The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required,” said Segalwe.
23 June 2025- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it welcomes the imposition of a hefty fine by the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court on CJC Precast (Pty) Ltd, represented by its Director, John Christopher Conroy (60). CJC Precast faced 65 counts of contravening Section 234(d) of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 – failure to submit tax returns.
The NPA regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said between February 2019 and June 2024, the company failed to submit both Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax (CIT) returns. Gunya said this was despite multiple telephonic reminders from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on 18 May 2022 and 16 August 2024, as well as written notices.
“After several court appearances, Conroy elected to pay an admission of guilt fine totalling R32 500 for failing to fulfil his tax obligations as the company’s Director. This matter forms part of the broader Honey Badger Project, a key initiative aimed at holding individuals and companies accountable for tax non-compliance,” he said.
Meanwhile, welcoming the outcome, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Advocate Dineo Mathule for her diligence in bringing the matter to a successful conclusion. She also acknowledged the collaborative effort of all role players involved in the case. Makhari said the NPA, through its Specialised Tax Unit, remains committed to ensuring accountability and reinforcing a culture of tax compliance under the Honey Badger Project.
“Criminal prosecution remains a key instrument in addressing wilful non-compliance with tax laws,” she said.
Picture: Newly-appointed Orlando Pirates FC coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
23 June 2025- The Orlando Pirates Football Club said it is pleased to announce the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new Head Coach. Pirates said Ouaddou takes over the reins ahead of the new season, replacing Jose Riveiro at the helm following his decision to step down to join Al Ahly, after a successful three-year tenure.
“Born in Alnif, Morocco, the 46-year-old brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a tactician. A former Moroccan international, Ouaddou earned 68 caps for The Atlas Lions and enjoyed a distinguished playing career across several top European leagues.
“His deep understanding of the game, coupled with a strong leadership profile, positions him well to lead the Buccaneers into a new era. Ouaddou, who is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of the week, will be assisted by Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich and Tyron Damons,” said Pirates in a statement.
Pirates said pre-season preparations will officially kick off on June 27.
Mayfair-based club said as part of preparations for the upcoming campaign, it will embark on their third consecutive international pre-season tour to Marbella, Spain. Pirates said the training camp – set to run from July 8 to July 20, will see the team engage in high-level friendly matches against European opponents including Bolton Wanderers (England), Pafos FC (Cyprus), Las Palmas (Spain), and Granada (Spain).
Picture: The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari visiting Witrand Hospital
By OBAKENG MAJE
23 June 2025- The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari today visited Witrand Hospital following reports circulating on social media regarding the alleged death of a long-term patient at the facility. Lehari was accompanied by the Interim Superintendent-General, Mosela Mokhutshwane-Kaudi, alongside other senior officials from the department.
He further said his visit formed part of the department’s ongoing Re Bona Ka Matlho oversight programme, which aims to proactively engage health facilities and respond swiftly to emerging issues of concern. Lehari added that Witrand Psychiatric Hospital is one of the province’s leading specialized institutions, providing care for individuals with intellectual disabilities, psychiatric conditions, and patients requiring physical medicine and rehabilitation services.
“Given the hospital’s significance, the allegations shared on social media warranted immediate attention and verification. During the visit, we engaged the hospital’s management team to gather preliminary information.
“It was confirmed that the matter has already been referred to law enforcement authorities and is currently under active investigation. In addition to this, we directed the establishment of an internal investigation team composed of senior departmental officials,” he said.
Lehari said the team, consisting of the Provincial Head of Clinical Services, Legal Experts and experienced Health Service Managers, will thoroughly investigate the allegations and provide a comprehensive report within two weeks. He said as a department, they take these allegations with the utmost seriousness.
“The safety and dignity of patients in our care are non-negotiable. While we await the outcome of the police investigation, we are conducting our own internal inquiry to ensure that the facts are established and that any necessary actions are taken swiftly and responsibly.
“The department is committed to transparency, accountability, upholding the rights and dignity of all patients in its care. The department will fully cooperate with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and any other relevant authorities in order to support a complete and conclusive investigation,” said Lehari.
He said his department expresses its deepest concern over the matter and assures the public that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of both internal and external investigations.
23 June 2025- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), Madoda Sambatha said he is taking legal action against a certain individual, who allegedly hacked his phone and stole personal pictures. On 18 June 2025, pictures of Sambatha and his wife were circulated on various social media platforms.
Samabatha said these images were unlawfully accessed and distributed as a result of a hacking incident involving his personal mobile device. He said this intrusion constitutes a serious violation of privacy and is a criminal offense under the Cybercrimes Act No. 19 of 2020.
“The preliminary evidence indicates that the hacking was perpetrated by an employee within the North West Provincial Government (NWPG), using an official government email address.
“The said individual not only accessed the content without consent, but also tampered with the photos before distributing them publicly. The details of the person involved are known to me,” said Sambatha.
He further said on 19 June 2025, he formally opened a criminal case at Mmabatho Police Station. Sambatha added that, in addition to the criminal proceedings, he will be pursuing a civil case to hold the perpetrator accountable for damages caused.
“I wish to clarify and affirm that my wife has been a small-scale communal farmer since 2019, engaging in horticulture, broiler chickens and egg-laying production. I was only deployed to the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) in 2024 — five years after she began her farming journey.
“This malicious incident seeks to distort facts and invade the dignity of our family. We remain resolute in upholding the truth and pursuing all legal avenues to ensure justice is served,” he said.
Meanwhile, The Guardian Newspaper understands that, the alleged perpetrator, was working in the Office of the Premier’s private office during former North West Premier, Supra Mahumapelo’s tenure and now she has since allegedly been moved to the North West Department of Arts, Sports, Culture and Recreation.
Picture: Some of the firearms seized by the police
By REGINALD KANYANE
23 June 2025 – A man (31) is expected to appear at Orkney Magistrate’s Court for possession of unlicensed firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition, two counts of attempted murder and contravention of the Dangerous Weapons Act. The suspect, who is from Lesotho, will face an additional charge of contravention of the Immigration Act.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said the suspect’s arrest was part of efforts to eradicate illegal firearms. Manyoba said the suspect was arrested by the Kanana Detectives and Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Visible Policing members during a takedown operation early in the morning at around 2:30am on 20 June 2025, at Kanana Extension 13 near Orkney.
“The suspect was found in possession of a pistol, a revolver, a gas pistol and several different rounds of ammunition. Reports suggest that the suspect allegedly shot and critically injured two men, aged 25 and 27, following an altercation between him and the victims on Saturday evening, 14 June 2025.
“Investigations into the matter continue,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng said the South African Police Service (SAPS) is imploring the communities of Kanana, Khuma and Jouberton Townships, including the established Community Policing Forums and Community Safety Forums not to harbour illegal armed criminals who are robbing, killing and maiming them, but to notify the police immediately so that they can be arrested.
The Guardian 