Daily Archives: July 16, 2025

IEC introspection on 2024 National and Provincial elections

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

16 July 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs yesterday received the overall 2024 national and provincial elections report and appreciated the strong introspection on the part of the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), which will create a platform for self-correction and strengthened electoral processes.

The committee is confident that the areas of improvement highlighted by the IEC did not have a direct impact on the elections being free and fair.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Mosa Chabane said areas of improvement identified by the IEC, such as challenges with the IT system, faults with the voter management devices, voting station inefficiencies and the need for improved training of electoral staff assure the committee that the Commission is doing everything to improve the quality of voting experience and efficiency of a voting station.

Chabane said the committee highlighted that the report also reaffirms the IEC’s credibility as a body that delivers quality, verifiable and open elections.

“Despite this, the committee emphasised the need for a reassessment of how to address the challenge of voter apathy and declining voter turnout. The committee has emphasised that enhanced civic and democratic education strategies must be urgently implemented to ensure that the number of voters increases, thereby strengthening the country’s democracy.

“There must be a reflection, not only from the IEC’s perspective but from society in general, that voter turnout is unacceptably low and impacts on the strength of South African democracy, a hard-fought right,” he said.

Chabane further said the committee reaffirmed the IEC’s integrity and system veracity over time, and acknowledged improvement since its establishment. He added that, additionally, IEC has been recognised as a benchmark for election machinery on the continent.

“The committee reflected on the impact of Section 24 (A) provision in the Electoral Amendment Act. The committee called on the IEC to develop a report on both the positive and negative impacts of this section during the 2024 elections.

“The committee highlighted its strong view on the need to review this provision, especially in the context of the unintended consequences for voter apathy,” said Chabane.

He said the committee welcomed the assurance from the IEC that it is working on a reimagined voter experience that includes the value proposition that a voter does not spend more than 30 minutes in a voting station.

“This would require improving the quality of staff employed at voting stations, optimising processes, ironing out problems with technical tools and improving the response rate to challenges arising in voting stations,” said Chabane.

Meanwhile, he said the committee has urged the IEC to highlight any legislative gaps that the committee and Parliament can work on to ensure that elections are seamless. He said the committee welcomed the 59% increase in the number of voting districts over the past 25 years, which reduces the average spread of voters per voting station.

“The committee continued to highlight that voting stations must be as close as possible to the people to ensure ease of access. Furthermore, the committee has welcomed the processing of the legal matter relating to IEC Commissioner, Dr Nomsa Masuku in line with and within the framework of the Constitution.

“The committee welcomes the fact that the Commissioner has not participated in IEC affairs since her legal challenges. On the expiry of the term of the IEC Chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, and those of Judge Dhaya Pillay and Dr Masuku, the committee thanked them for their service and integrity in advancing the work of the IEC,” said Chabane.

He said their dedication and sleepless nights have contributed to strengthening South Africa’s democracy. Chabane said the committee has reiterated the need for continued protection of the IEC’s credibility, as it plays a crucial role in promoting democratic processes.         

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Committee recommended probing Mkhwanazi’s allegations

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Picture: KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

16 July 2025 – A joint meeting between the Portfolio Committee on Police and the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development said it has resolved to recommend to the National Assembly (NA) that an ad hoc committee is the best parliamentary process to consider allegations made by the South African Police Service KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkwanazi.

The Chairperson of Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said following consideration of a Parliamentary Legal Service legal opinion, the committees were of the view that an ad hoc committee is the best format to interrogate the allegations. Cameron said ad hoc committees are formed as per Rule 253 of the National Assembly.

“The rationale for this option is that the scope of such a committee is specific and time-bound. The committee was presented with two alternative options: a full-blown investigative inquiry and two committees exercising their conferring powers in terms of NA Rule 169.

“The majority of committee members present in the meeting were in favour of the ad hoc committee, as members felt Parliament would thereby remain involved in such a process exercising their oversight responsibility,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Xola Nqola shared the same sentiments. Nqola said the committee reiterated the urgency of the matter and the need to reach findings on the allegations to protect the integrity and standing of the entire criminal justice system.

“Also, the committee highlighted the need to avoid duplication of the work of the commission of inquiry established by the President. Lastly, the committee emphasised the need for continuous oversight over the work of the Presidential commission of inquiry and requested that the interim reports submitted to the President be made available to Parliament.

“At the next meeting, the committee is expected to discuss the terms of reference and timelines for such an ad hoc committee. The committees will on 23 July 2025, as per the directive from the Speaker, recommend to the NA that an ad hoc committee be established to consider the matter,” he said.

Nqola said furthermore, the committees’ recommendations will emphasise the need for urgency in considering the matter.

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A man sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for rape

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

16 July 2025- A man (23) was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment by the Kathu Regional Court for rape. The accused, Ikgopoleng Seane was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the incident occurred in the early hours of 8 October 2023 at approximately 3am when a victim (43), was at her residence in Lohatlha village, Siyathemba, with a colleague. Shemane said Seane entered the house, assaulted the victim’s colleague—who managed to escape—and then turned on the victim.

“He physically assaulted her, forcibly undressed her, and raped her. The victim’s screams alerted nearby residents, who responded and came to her aid. A case of rape was opened and the accused was successfully traced and arrested by the police,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, welcomed the conviction and sentence, commending Warrant Officer Boikanyo Pilane of the Kathu Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for his meticulous investigative work. Otola also acknowledged the valuable guidance provided by prosecutor Bernice Oor, which contributed to the successful prosecution and incarceration of the accused.

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Ad hoc committee on Mkhwanazi claims a vital first step toward police accountability

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Picture: KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi

By REGINALD KANYANE

16 July 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said it welcomes the decision taken by the joint sitting of the Portfolio Committees on Police and Justice & Constitutional Development to establish an ad hoc committee to urgently investigate the serious allegations raised by the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

DA Deputy Spokesperson on Police and Member of Parliament (MP), Lisa Schickerling said this is a crucial and long overdue step toward ensuring transparency, accountability and restoring public trust in South Africa’s law enforcement institutions. Schickerling said it also reflects Parliament’s constitutional duty to provide effective oversight particularly when allegations of such a serious nature emerge from within the senior ranks of SAPS.

“By establishing this committee, Parliament is signalling its commitment to swift action and meaningful accountability. We urged that clear terms of reference be finalised without delay, accompanied by a firm time-bound mandate to ensure that the truth is not buried beneath bureaucracy or derailed by political interference.

“South Africans deserve answers and transparency, and they deserve them quickly.

The DA reiterates that only a fearless and independent inquiry can begin to restore integrity within policing in South Africa. The rot within our law enforcement institutions can no longer be ignored, downplayed or swept under the rug,” she said.

Schickerling further said Parliament must now rise to the occasion and ensure that this committee delivers the accountability the country desperately needs. She added that they will monitor the progress of this ad hoc committee closely and continue to demand real action against those who have violated their oaths.

“South Africans are watching. And they deserve action not more empty promises,” said Schickerling.

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Crinums and Fireballs secure wins in tough encounters

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Picture: Fireballs vs Flames: Pictured are the Fireballs and Flames in action during the Telkom Netball League Power Week 3 played at Durban ICC on Wednesday, 16 July 2025. The Golden Fireballs beat Flames 62 – 45/Supplied

By KARABO MOKGALAGADI

16 July 2025- Day 3 of the Telkom Netball League at the Durban ICC featured an intense match where the Crinums triumphed over the Jaguars 55-44, continuing their championship defence. The Crinums secured an early lead with effective gameplay and stellar super shots, while the Jaguars faced issues with shooting consistency and accumulated 52 penalties.

Crinums coach Martha Mosoahle-Sam highlighted their strong start: “The first quarter was amazing. We built a nine-goal lead, giving us a significant advantage. Our focus is on the semi-finals, but we’ll prepare for the Baobabs next.”

Jaguars coach Rozanne Matthyse acknowledged the need for improvement: “We must deliver solid performances. We’re in the top four, but we need to reflect and improve for the semifinals.”

The Jaguars will face the Aloes, while the Crinums will take on the Baobabs in their final matches before the semi-finals next Friday. In another match that kept the masses on the edge of their seats was the match between the Golden Fireballs and North West Flame.

The Fireballs advanced to the semi-finals with a flawless run, culminating in a 62-45 win over the North West Flames. The Fireballs showcased outstanding tactical awareness and ability, with only 12 turnovers and eight interceptions.

Fireballs coach Dr Elsje Jordaan expressed her pride, saying: “I’m extremely proud of my players, the way they showed relentlessness and resilience to pull themselves back under pressure. We really needed this win, and I thought our performance was brilliant.”

In contrast, Flames coach Elsunet Du Plessis reflected on his team’s performance, stating, “We had very good first three quarters…We unfortunately had too many unforced errors and did not finish off our scoring opportunities.”

The win secures the Fireballs’ spot in the semi-finals, while the Flames will now compete in the playoffs for positions 5 and 6, looking to maintain their momentum.

Division 2 wrap

The Sunbirds dominated the Comets 45-31 in a physical, fast-paced match. Their composure and accuracy in the shooting circle proved decisive, particularly in the second half. Despite a strong second-quarter fight from the Comets, the Sunbirds’ defence and confident shooting under pressure secured the win. The Comets showed promising fight spirit, highlighting their potential despite still seeking their first win in the third and final Power Week.

In an exciting KZN Derby match, the Kingdom Stars dominated the Kingdom Queens 55-32, showcasing exceptional defence and clinical finishing. The Stars’ defensive structure was rock-solid, and their circle defence created ample scoring opportunities. The Stars’ dominance in the KZN Derby was evident, and they left the arena on a high note. The match highlighted key areas for improvement for the Queens, particularly in shooting percentages and capitalising on defensive efforts.

Meanwhile, the Tornados, who currently top the log standings in Division 2, secured a convincing 45-35 win over Tshukudu, avenging their previous loss to the same team.

According to Tornado’s coach Lucy Twani, the match was a confidence booster and an opportunity to prove their team’s strategy. “We needed to show that we can beat them,” Twani said. “By sticking to our game plan, we proved to ourselves that it works. We just need to do it repeatedly, backing each other and trusting the plan.”

The Tornados’ 10-goal difference victory showcased their dominance, solidifying their position in the semifinals. Meanwhile, it’s back to the drawing board for Coach Vivian Foko, who has one more round robin encounter against the Comets.

The Durban ICC was electric as spectators came in numbers to support their home teams, singing and cheering on their favourite players.

End –

Wednesday, 16 July 2025: Results:

07:00 – D2: Diamonds 46 – 35 Lilies

09:00 – D2: Tshukudu 35 – 45 Tornados

11:00 – D1: Fireballs 62 – 45 Flames

13:00 – D2: Kingdom Queens 32 – 55 Kingdoms Stars

15:00 – D2: Sunbirds 45 – 31 Comets

17:00 – D1: Jaguars 44 vs 55 Crinums

19:00 – D2: Lilies 34 – 61 Sonoblomo

Thursday 17 July 2025 Fixtures:

07:00 – D2: Comets vs Tshukudu

09:00 – D2: Sonoblomo vs Kingdom Queens

11:00 – D1: Crinums vs Baobabs

13:00 – D1: Stings vs Fireballs

15:00 – D1: Jaguars vs Aloes

17:00 – D2: Kingdom Stars vs Sunbirds

19:00 – D2: Diamonds vs Tornados

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PSC concerned about affordability issues at GEMS

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By OBAKENG MAJE

16 July 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration today met with the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) to discuss its affordability and governance practices, among other things. The committee has emphasised the importance of GEMS in ensuring that public servants and their dependents have access to value-for-money medical care.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Jan de Villiers said they welcome the presentation before referring to a letter from the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU), which raised several concerns about rising premiums, outsourcing and governance. De Villiers said the union, among other things, claims that GEMS’ administrative outsourcing to for-profit entities has impacted on service quality.

“The union cited an example of the 13.5% premium increase in 2024, which was reportedly substantially higher than the industry average of 10%. Concerns were also raised about the R40 million spent on 52 board meetings, in contrast to the R1.5 million spent on nine Discovery board meetings.

“Several committee members expressed concerns, particularly about affordability for low-income public servants. One member asked how cleaners earning between R3 500 and R5 000 monthly could be expected to pay R1 200 for GEMS coverage and still afford basic living expenses,” he said.

De Villiers further said another member wanted to know why GEMS reserves, amounting to billions, were not being used to reduce contributions or expand benefits. He added that members also reiterated concerns about scheme members, who exhaust funds early in the year and the lack of flexible benefit structures.

“Some members proposed that employer contributions be restructured to better support employee health and prevent performance decline due to inadequate health access.

“GEMS acknowledged the gravity of the members’ concerns and reiterated its non-profit status, commitment to ethical governance and dedication to affordability and quality care,” he said.

De Villiers said, however, the scheme disputed the need for a “turnaround plan”, as proposed by NEHAWU in the union’s letter to the committee. He said according to GEMS, its multi-administrator outsourcing model promotes cost-efficiency and transformation.

“The scheme also reiterated that its reserves are used to cushion contribution increases and explained that investment returns of R1.7 billion in 2023 helped prevent a higher premium hike.

“The committee will continue to monitor the scheme’s progress and expects a follow-up meeting after the Council for Medical Schemes concludes its review,” said de Villiers.

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Uncle sentenced to six years imprisonment for sexual assault

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

16 July 2025- A man (56) was sentenced to six years imprisonment for sexual assault. This comes after the accused, who is the uncle to the two teenage twin sisters (16) from Carnarvon, sexually assaulted them on two separate occasions during 2023.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the girls reported the incidents to their mother, who subsequently opened a case of sexual assault against the accused on 24 October 2023. Shemane said the suspect was arrested the following day and later released on bail.

“However, he failed to attend his court proceedings and was subsequently rearrested on a warrant. He remained in custody until the case was finalised. On 14 July 2025, the De Aar Regional Court found him guilty on two counts of sexual assault.

“He was sentenced to six years imprisonment, wholly suspended for a period of five years on the condition that he is not convicted of assault during the suspension period. Furthermore, his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders, and he has been declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley Ka Seme District Police Management commended Constable Leevirne Raaf of the Carnarvon Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, Court Preparation Officer, Trot Manghana, and state prosecutor, Xolisa March for their collaborative efforts in securing a conviction and ensuring justice for the victims.

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Committee concerned about the state of correctional service facilities

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

16 July 2025- The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services re-iterated its grave concern regarding the state of correctional facilities around the country because of insufficient maintenance due to budget shortfalls. The committee indicated that the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), and the National Treasury (NT), must work closely together to find solutions to the dire condition of some facilities.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said they received a briefing from the DPWI on the dispute between the DPWI and the DCS about user charges and on matters identified during oversight visits. Ramolobeng said the DPWI told the committee that the itemised billing was approved by the NT in terms of Treasury regulations.

“However, the rates approved by the NT are far below the calculated level required to achieve full cost recovery. This has led in a shortfall of R24.1 billion since the implementation of itemised billing. The DPWI, which acts as landlord, said that it received R4.7 billion from client departments at an average of R23,24 per m2, whereas it pays the private sector R110 per m2.

“Annual day-to-day maintenance amounts to R2.2 billion for 56 414 buildings occupied by government and rates amount to R1.8 billion. The committee heard that in terms of the DCS, NT only allows it to pay R14.33 m2 for building space,” she said.

Ramolobeng further said the committee was told that, for properties occupied by the DCS, the DPWI is running at a loss. She added that, the past five years, the total deficit amounts to R1.9 billion, with an annual average loss of R376 million.

“However, a task team is working on finding solutions to the challenges facing the two departments. The committee noted the work of the task team. We would like to advise the task team to identify and prioritise those matters that cannot be left to deteriorate further.

“This should include DCS’s day-to-day operations, which require regular service and maintain. “It does not help if you have a beautiful kitchen in a centre with five or six stoves but only one is working. We saw that for ourselves in KwaZulu-Natal. In some instances, we even had to recommend that the kitchen should be shut down,” said Ramolobeng.

She said once inmates are unable to eat or are given one meal a day, it becomes a serious challenge. Ramolobeng said the committee advised the DCS to continue to do maintenance and repairs and use offender labour for this.

“The filling of artisan vacancies was also highlighted, as they could assist offenders with repairing facilities. The committee also agreed on the need for a meeting of heads of department between the DCS, DPWI and NT to discuss the issue of the user charge allocation.

“During a presentation a few weeks ago, the committee heard that more than R842 million was processed and paid to the DPWI in terms of this allocation during the 2024/25 period. However, DPWI has since relinquished the majority of maintenance responsibilities to the DCS, even though payments were made,” she said.

Ramolobeng said the committee will also invite NT to brief the committee on this matter. In addition, the committee will require regular updates from the task team on progress achieved.

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RSA President, Cyril Ramaphosa to visit Northern Cape

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Picture: RSA Preisdent, Cyril Ramaphosa

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

16 July 2025- The Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul said he is pleased to announce a visit by the President of the country, Cyril Ramaphosa to the province later this month. Saul said Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Members of the National Cabinet for a meeting with the Provincial Executive Council.

He further said this visit forms part of a commitment by Ramaphosa in the 2024 Presidency Budget Vote to work closely with provincial and local governments to address service delivery challenges. Saul added that the visit aims to engage with the Premier, Members of the Executive Council, and the Executive Mayors of the five District Municipalities on programmes being implemented in the province by various government departments and municipalities.

“This aligns with Section 154 of the Constitution, which requires National and Provincial governments to support and strengthen the capacity of local government to carry out its functions. This will be a significant occasion, as the entire Cabinet will be visiting the province. We view this as a very important and historic visit.

“The Northern Cape Provincial Government would be allowed an opportunity to engage the President and Cabinet on the state of the Northern Cape and its constituent municipalities. Deliberations will focus on Inter-Governmental support and interventions where it is needed, as well as reflecting on challenges and opportunities that exist for inclusive economic growth, job creation and improving service delivery,” he said.

Saul said in addition, it is also expected that the Cabinet will engage and propose solutions to the Northern Cape Provincial Government to be jointly focused on. He said they are looking forward to the outcomes of this meeting and they are confident that those outcomes will propel the provincial administration to greater heights and set the province on a progressive developmental trajectory in advancing the vision of a modern, growing and successful province and positioning the province as South Africa’s new growth front.

“The meeting is scheduled to take place on 25 July 2025 in Kimberley,” said Saul.

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Plethora of activities lined-up for Mandela Day   

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By REGINALD KANYANE

16 July 2025- On 18 July 2025, the Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, Dr Desbo Mohono, together with Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) and Legislature staff, will commemorate International Nelson Mandela Day at various centres and schools across all four districts of the North West. Mohono said the commemoration aims to inspire citizens to take-action and help build a better world by fostering a spirit of service, responsibility, and compassion—values championed by the late global icon Nelson Mandela.

“The day is also intended to encourage communities to observe this humanitarian occasion by promoting the ethos of ‘Vukuzenzele’ (self-initiative) in honour of Madiba’s enduring legacy. Activities planned for the day include Presiding Officers, MPLs and Legislature staff will participate in various community service activities such as painting, cleaning, and plumbing at selected centres.

“Donating 50 blankets to each of the identified care centres.

Distributing grocery hampers sanitary towels, snake repellent solutions, beanies, socks, and other essentials. In some centres lunch will be hosted for the elderly and beneficiaries. Donating netball kits to vulnerable teams in the Madikwe area,” she said.

Mohono further said this includes distributing 200 school shoes per district to schools across all districts after reopening as part of the Mandela Day continuation. She added that the programme will begin at 9am.

“Accompanied by some MPLs and staff, I will lead activities at Madikwe clinic, Lesedi Day Care Centre in Madikwe and Cywerskraal in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality. The Deputy Speaker, Collen Maine, will visit the Thusong Centre in Ntswanahatshe village and Molelema Primary School in Taung.

“The Chief Whip, Motlalepula Rosho will be at Itirele Service Club and Sizanani Old Age Centre in Kgakala Township, in Maquassi. The Chairperson of Chairpersons, Tebogo Modise will lead activities at Thari Mpepe Feeding Scheme, Bua MoAfrika Centre (Sangalala), and Sebakwane Social Club in Imperial Reserve, Ext. 38, and Golf View, Mahikeng,” said Mohono.  

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