Monthly Archives: July 2025

Committee welcomes Treasury reviews

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

9 July 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration today welcomed the announcement by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, to institute three critical spending reviews aimed at improving the efficiency, integrity and developmental impact of government expenditure.

The reviews, announced during the Minister’s budget vote debate, will focus on standardising the remuneration of executives and board members of public entities, auditing and eliminating ghost workers and investigating the persistent underspending and delivery failures associated with infrastructure conditional grants at the provincial and municipal levels.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Jan de Villiers said these reviews are not only welcome but long overdue. De Villers said they echo the committee’s consistent calls for a professionalised public service, one that is results-based, provides value for public money, and adopts a zero-tolerance approach to corruption, waste and political patronage.

“We support the development of a standardised remuneration framework for public entity executives and board members. Salaries must be fair, transparent and directly linked to the entity’s mandate, complexity and performance.

“There can be no justification for exorbitant pay packages where service delivery is in crisis or entities are failing. On the issue of ghost workers, we reaffirmed the committee’s view that this is not a minor administrative flaw, but a form of organised, systemic corruption that siphons off public funds and undermines trust in the state,” he said.

De Villiers said these are not invisible names on paper – these are real funds stolen from the public. He said the committee calls for these audits to lead to consequences.

“We want to see prosecutions, dismissals and systemic reform. The committee will continue to monitor this process closely, and a joint oversight meeting with the Treasury and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) is scheduled for the third quarter of 2025.

“The committee also welcomed broader government efforts to professionalise the state, including the digitisation of human resource and payroll systems, the introduction of lifestyle audits and the rollout of skills audits within departments,” said de Villers.

He said this followed a briefing by the DPSA and the National School of Government this morning on the government’s progress in digitising the public service and aligning training and upskilling with departmental needs. De Villiers said the creation of a professional, merit-based and non-partisan public service is both constitutionally mandated and essential to improving service delivery for all South Africans.

“Skills audits are particularly critical as they allow us to assess whether departments are staffed appropriately and whether officials have the qualifications and competencies needed to fulfil their mandates.

“Responding to this morning’s briefing, the Chairperson said digitisation and upskilling will help empower officials and drive improved service delivery, particularly in under-resourced areas,” he said.

De Villiers said they must know not just who is employed in the public service, but whether they are fit for purpose. He said skills audits, alongside digital transformation and standardised pay, create an opportunity to reconfigure departments to meet the needs of the public better.

“Where upskilling is required, it must be supported. Where restructuring is needed, it must be done responsibly. The committee remains committed to actively overseeing these reviews, focusing on results rather than rhetoric.

“We are planning a joint meeting with the Department of Public Service and Administration and National Treasury in the third quarter of 2025 to obtain further updates, including a detailed progress update on the ghost worker audit, implementation of lifestyle audits and alignment between performance and pay in the public sector, as well as consequence management for those involved in fraud and maladministration,” said de Villiers.

He said they will not allow these reviews to become another policy gesture. De Villiers said they must be executed with urgency, rigour and public accountability.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

DA demands full accountability as Hawks probe culpable homicide

NEWS Leave a comment

By OBAKENG MAJE

9 July 2025- The Democratic Alliance (DA) said the handover of the Kommetjie investigation report to the Hawks is long overdue, but it is an essential first step toward justice. The DA said for months, secrecy has smothered this tragedy, fuelling suspicion and outrage.

The DA spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans and Member of Parliament (MP), Chris Hattingh said choosing to push ahead with a high-risk vertical transfer exercise, despite clear weather warnings and a blatant disregard for critical safety protocols, was more than reckless. Hattingh said it was a decision that cost lives.

He further said the evidence now confirms what many feared. Hattingh added that catastrophic failures in planning, risk management and operational oversight directly led to the deaths of Lieutenant-Commander Gillian Hector and her two colleagues.

“But, these were not isolated mistakes, they are the predictable consequence of a defence force stripped bare by years of financial neglect, collapsing capabilities, and absent leadership. This is what happens when critical skills are lost, equipment is left to rot, and operational safety becomes an afterthought.

“That the Hawks see possible grounds for culpable homicide charges underscores the gravity of the failings on that day. Justice delayed is justice denied. The families of the fallen deserve closure. South Africans deserve answers. If negligence is proven, those responsible must be held fully accountable, swiftly and without compromise,” he said.

Hattingh said the lives lost at Kommetjie must not become just another footnote in the SANDF’s growing list of avoidable tragedies. He said the DA will continue to fight for transparency and accountability in the SANDF.

“We will push relentlessly for the full truth around Kommetjie to be made public and for those responsible to face the consequences of their actions or inaction. Our armed forces must be rebuilt into a professional, well-led institution that protects both its own members and the people of South Africa. Kommetjie must mark a turning point, not another cover-up,” said Hattingh.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man nabbed for being in possession of carcasses of two cattle

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: The carcasses of two cattle/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 July 2025- A man (37) was arrested by the Upington Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit for stock-theft at Twee Rivieren. The accused, Melvin Vilander allegedly smuggled the meat of two cattle into South Africa from Botswana on 26 June 2025, near Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Omphile Masegela said the transaction took place over the borderline fence of RSA and Botswana without legal documents. Masegela said the police received a tip-off and followed it up.

“The meat of two cattle carcasses were recovered. The accused could not provide reasonable explanation for being in possession of the meat. The value of the meat recovered is R13 000.

“A case was then opened and the investigation was handed over to Detective Warrant Officer Jacques Ockhuys, who effected the arrest after thorough investigation,” she said.

Masegela said Vilander had already appeared before court and granted a R1000 bail. She said a case has been postponed for further investigation.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Mosenogi denies misleading Portfolio Committee     

NEWS Leave a comment

  

Picture: The North West MEC for Finance, Kenetswe Mosenogi

By OBAKENG MAJE

8 July 2025- The Office of the Premier in the North West came out gun blazing and defended the then acting North West Premier, Kenetswe Mosenogi, who allegedly misled the Portfolio Committee on Premier and Finance Office regarding appointments of Heads of Departments. The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said they have noted the statement and media reports regarding allegations of misconduct and perjury against then acting North West Premier, Kenetswe Mosenogi on the appointment of Heads of Departments.

Tatai said it is important to clarify the facts. He further said there was no misrepresentation to the committee.

“On 5 June 2025, the accounting officer of the Office of the Premier read a report to the Portfolio Committee on Premier and Finance, which indicated that the administration was awaiting the decision of the Premier/Acting Premier on the appointment of Heads of Departments for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, and that of Education.

“In that report, the accounting officer made it abundantly clear that the candidates recommended were unfortunately all males. There was therefore no need to hide anything from the committee. It is also important to declare that even though a decision had already been taken, it first had to go through administrative processes,” he said.

Tatai added that this being the case, Mosenogi could not pronounce on the appointments as decided then, until assurances were made that such administrative processes had been concluded. He said given a proclaimed lack of knowledge about such appointments from the side of the administration, Mosenogi could not possibly proceed to make public pronouncements about such appointments.

“Mosenogi did not make any declarations about the appointments in the committee meeting and as such, cannot be deemed to have misled the committee or perjured herself. She was, however, duty bound to allow administrative processes to be concluded before making any representations to the committee about the HODs’ appointments.

“Mosenogi has publicly acknowledged in the committee meeting the need to improve gender representation and inclusivity in the senior management echelons and that the current statistics are regrettable and must be corrected,” said Tatai.

He said the North West Provincial Government, through the Office of the Premier, has and is still making a commitment to embark on a plan of action to rectify the transformation targets as regards gender, disability and youth for the previously disadvantaged groups. Tatai said the Office of the Premier rejects the claims of misconduct and perjury as unfounded and misleading.

“We remain committed to ethical leadership which includes governance practices such as transparency, accountability as well as adherence to the rule of law,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Premier and Finance, Nathan Oliphant said: “We have requested urgent investigations by the Commission for Gender Equality and the Public Service Commission into alleged non-compliance with recruitment and selection procedures by the Office of the Premier.

“This follows the appointments of Heads of Department (HoDs) for Education and for Economic Development.

During a recent follow-up meeting with the Office of the Premier, Director-General Paul Mogotlhe acknowledged that, while advertisements for the HoD positions—along with the post for the Department of Social Development—encouraged applications from women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities, the selection panel ultimately recommended two male candidates for the vacancy in the Dept of Econ Dev, Conservation & Tourism and 2 males and 1 female for the vacancy in the Dept of Education, 2 male Heads of department have since been appointed.”

Oliphant said they have noted with concern the continuing underrepresentation of women in senior roles. He said currently, there are 324 males and only 127 females occupying positions at level 13 and above across provincial departments and entities.

“We express disappointment that the report from the provincial government showed no progress since the previous meeting.

We were misled and the provincial government indicated that no appointments were made in our sitting on 5 June 2025 and subsequent report that 2 men have been appointed for vacancies preferred for female candidates and persons with disability.

“Despite this, the appointments proceeded and did not reflect the advertised criteria. We are calling on both the Commission for Gender Equality and the Public Service Commission to investigate potential bias and discrimination against women, people with disabilities and marginalised communities,” said Oliphant.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for killing his girlfriend

NEWS Leave a comment

By REGINALD KANYANE

8 July 2025- A man (39) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Galeshewe Regional Court in Kimberley for killing his girlfriend. The accused, Theophilus Chabalala killed his girlfriend in Rhythm City, Kimberley on 25 May 2024.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said on the fateful day, the two had a domestic altercation in their shack. Sam said Chabalala grabbed a knife and fatally stabbed the victim in the presence of their two minor children.

“The accused was found guilty on a case of murder and sentenced to 12 years direct imprisonment and was declared unfit to carry a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Gabathata Makgari, commended the Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant Isaac Motladi, for the meticulous investigation of the case and for ensuring that perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) are brought to book. Makgari said the police are encouraging the public to rate the police efforts in fighting crime by participating in the RATE OUR SERVICE online survey to assist the police in improving services and to report criminal activities via the MySAPS App or 08600 10111.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Committee on Health welcomes findings of Section 59 investigation panel

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi

By AGISANANG SCUFF  

8 July 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, said he welcomes the findings of the Section 59 investigation panel, which has uncovered systemic racial discrimination in the implementation of fraud, waste and abuse systems by medical schemes and administrators. Dhlomo said the report paints a concerning picture of the disproportionate impact that medical schemes’ fraud, waste and abuse systems have had on black healthcare providers. 

He said the statistical evidence presented by the panel’s expert, clearly demonstrates that black providers were significantly more likely to be found guilty of fraud, waste and abuse compared to their non-black counterparts. Dhlomo said the panel’s analysis revealed that across the three major schemes investigated – Discovery, GEMS and Medscheme – black providers were between 1.5 to 3.5 times more likely to be identified as guilty of fraud, waste and abuse. 

“In certain disciplines, such as physiotherapy, psychology and social work, the risk ratios for black providers were even higher, reaching up to 12 times more likely to be found guilty. These findings are deeply troubling and point to systemic flaws in the design and implementation of the fraud, waste and abuse systems. 

“It is unacceptable that black healthcare providers have been subjected to such blatantly discriminatory treatment, which has undoubtedly had a devastating impact on their livelihoods and the communities they serve,” he said.

Dhlomo said the committee commends the panel for its thorough and independent investigation and welcomes the recommendations made to the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to ensure the ongoing monitoring of the fraud, waste and abuse systems to prevent further discriminatory outcomes. He stated that he is in discussions with the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi about the report. 

“The aim is to ensure that the Minister, the Department of Health, and the entities that the committee oversees and that have been implicated will be invited to provide a briefing to the committee on the findings, outcomes and recommendations presented in the report.

“We cannot allow such systemic discrimination to continue unchecked, as it undermines the transformation of the healthcare sector and the constitutional right to equality,” said Dhlomo.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

District beekeeping engagements will expand economic opportunities 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Beekeeper, Nkululeko Kula

By OBAKENG MAJE 

8 July 2025- A beekeeper from Letlhapong village, near Taung, Nkululeko Kula (34), said even though he has not found his niche in the beekeeping industry, he is glad that his business is slowly becoming a commercial venture. Kula, who has employed three people thus far on a temporary basis, said his business involves managing beehives to produce and sell bee-related products like honey, pollen and beeswax. 

He further said, he also offers cross-fertilisation services. Kula said success in beekeeping requires knowledge, dedication and careful management of the bees and their environment. Kula added that he is fortunate because he had acquired all that through his journey.  

“I have knowledge and skills to encompass my business. I am also grateful for the unwavering support that I continue to receive from local people. So far, I do not have the market to supply my product to. However, I think things will soon change for the better. 

“I was working for a beekeeping company in Kimberley and that is where I gained mentorship and hands-on practice. This is not an easy business because you need to understand bee biology, hive management, pest control, and honey harvesting techniques,” said Kula.

He said he is in need of a honey extractor, which is a mechanical device used in the extraction of honey from honeycombs. Kula said he sometimes struggles to extract honey as he does not have the right equipment. 

“A 500g bottle of honey is available at R130. Those who need to buy honey can come to our village or contact me to purchase. I am still developing a marketing strategy to sell my products using online platforms, as I am only using local markets or direct sales to customers. 

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said: “We will embark on district beekeeping engagements across the province. The engagements will expand economic opportunities through apiculture.

“The department is pleased to announce that it will embark on district beekeeping engagements during the month of July 2025. The engagements will take place across all four districts of the province to support sustainable agricultural development, while promoting and expanding economic opportunities through apiculture (beekeeping).”

Setlhako said the objectives of these engagements is to raise awareness about the economic and ecological value of beekeeping, identifying the challenges faced by local beekeepers and cooperatives and further promoting knowledge sharing, skills transfer and training opportunities. She said the engagement will also assist in introducing support programs and funding avenues available through the department and to strengthen stakeholder collaboration for the growth of the beekeeping sector.

“The department encourages all interested individuals and beekeeping stakeholders to attend the sessions in their respective districts to share insights and contribute to shaping the future of apiculture in the North West,” said Setlhako.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Two sought in carjacking incident 

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Two people of interest/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

8 July 2025- The police from Upington Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit are requesting the assistance of the public in identifying and locating the two gentlemen depicted in the pictures as persons of interest wanted for questioning. The police said this is in connection with a carjacking incident that took place in Postmasburg between 26 and 27 April 2025. 

ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said: “Anyone who knows their whereabouts can contact the Investigating Officer Sergeant John Manzana on 0760133218 or 0543373126 or anonymously on 08600 10111 and MySAPS App.” 

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Mabuza drew a line in sand against state capture

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Former Deputy President, the late David Mabuza

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

8 July 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) Caucus in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) on Tuesday joined the people of South Africa in mourning the passing of former Deputy President of the Republic and a loyal servant of the liberation movement, David Debede Mabuza.

The ANC Chief Whip in North West Provincial Legislature, Motlalepula Rosho, declared that the passing of Mabuza on 3 July 2025 marks the end of a remarkable chapter of principled leadership in the story of South Africa’s democratic transition and people-centered governance.

“DD also affectionately known as “The Cat” for his political resilience and ability to navigate complex terrains. He was a bridge-builder, a reconciler and a steady hand in turbulent times. His leadership in Mpumalanga saw significant rural development and poverty alleviation, while his national role was marked by discipline, humility, and a deep commitment to the people. 

“We salute Mabuza for his unwavering dedication to the ideals of a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous South Africa. His selfless life that was characterised by relentless activism in pursuit of Freedom and democracy was a testament to the values of the Freedom Charter and the enduring spirit of the liberation movement,” she stressed.

Rosho further said they dip their revolutionary banners and convey their deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, his children, comrades, and the people of Mpumalanga and the entire South Africa. She added that Mabuza’s proud legacy and courageous spirit continue to guide them as they carry forward the struggle for a better life for all. 

Meanwhile, SAUCIC President Cardinal Archbishop Dr Modiri Patrick Shole said: “Mabuza’s untimely death has robbed South Africa of a selfless and courageous leader who had served the country with dedication, loyalty and distinction. 

“Though his term as Deputy President of the country and the ANC was disrupted by ill-health, his commitment to serving our people was never in doubt.” 

Shole recalled how Mabuza ascended to the position of Deputy President at the ANC 54th National Congress held in NASREC, pointing out that he was a strategist, a transformation agent as well as a revolutionary cadre whose political conscientiousness never betrayed the course of unity. He said when political opportunism weighed heavily on him, demanding that he put self-interest above principle, he opted for the latter, defining himself as a principled visionary leader, a unifier as well as a true patriot. 

“He drew a line in the sand against State Capture at a crucial moment in the history of our revolutionary movement risking a backlash including the possibility of being ostracised, earning respect across the political divide, within the revolutionary alliance as well as the Mass Democratic Movement, NEDLAC, SANAC, Faith based organisations including civil society constituencies that he had worked with great wisdom and humility. 

“We convey our condolences to the Mabuza family, the African National Congress as well as all South Africans, different constituencies and communities that the former Deputy President had served including the people of Mpumalanga,” he said.

taungdailynews@gmail.com

Drugs worth over R200 000 confiscated

NEWS Leave a comment

Picture: Drugs worth over R200 000 confiscated/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

8 July 2025- The police in Paballelo Township, near Upington said they made a successful discovery following a tip-off from an informer about alleged drugs hidden in trees. The police followed up a tip-off and searched the identified area, where they discovered tik and dagga to the total estimated value of R246 450. 

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said there were no arrests made, which led to an enquiry being registered for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner,  Major General Monica Sebili, lauded the swift response by the members and the community members for alerting the police, displaying diligence and commitment to eradicate drugs from the community. 

taungdailynews@gmail.com