Monthly Archives: September 2025

Didiza calls for stronger youth participation

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Picture: The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 September 2025 – The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, today called for stronger youth participation in parliaments and global decision-making platforms. Didiza addressed the P20 Young Parliamentarians Forum held under the theme: “Young Parliamentarians as Drivers of Global Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.”

She further said the meeting is taking place ahead of the 11th Parliamentary Speakers Summit (P20) scheduled for 1 to 3 October 2025. Didiza added that young people remain a vital force for shaping inclusive, sustainable and peaceful societies.

“We need to underline the importance of harnessing the energy, innovation and perspectives of young leaders. Young people are a powerhouse in exploring solutions to the problems of the modern world. Their perspectives, energy and inventive ideas are critical in helping us find original solutions needed for today’s challenges.

“Although progress has been made, young people continue to be under-represented in many legislatures worldwide. According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), only 2.8% of the world’s parliamentarians are under the age of 30, and 73% of Upper Houses have no members under the age of 30,” she said.

Didiza informed delegates that South Africa encourages youth participation in Parliament through political party processes and youth activism, which has ensured that the voices of young people are included in both Houses. She also highlighted several pressing issues confronting young people worldwide.

“These include persistently high levels of unemployment and poverty; the effects of conflict, instability and migration, which disproportionately affect youth; the severe consequences of climate change, also burdening younger generations; and limited access to education, skills development and digital opportunities.

“We urge parliaments to use their oversight powers to advance policies that promote youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, decent work, and access to technology, while also ensuring the responsible regulation of artificial intelligence,” said Didiza.

She said as they promote societies founded on democracy and respect for human rights, they must be conscious that young people are often the most affected by the decisions they make today. Didiza said it is no longer acceptable to take decisions without their voices.

She also emphasised the need for solidarity and international cooperation to build inclusive economies and address global challenges such as inequality, climate change and geopolitical tensions. Didiza said the actions and decisions they take today must ensure that young people, particularly in the Global South, gain meaningful access to economic opportunities and play a central role in shaping a just and sustainable future.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially open the 11th Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) on 1 October 2025. The outcomes of this Summit will inform parliamentary deliberations on issues such as unemployment, education, healthcare, and sustainable development in South Africa, the African continent and the rest of the world,”she said.

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FIFA sanctions Bafana Bafana for fielding ineligible player

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Picture: Bafana Bafana player, Teboho Mokoena

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 September 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) said it acknowledges a ruling by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, which sanctioned the association for erroneously fielding midfielder Teboho Mokoena during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between South Africa and Lesotho played on 21 March 2025. SAFA said in terms of the decision, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee declared the match to have been forfeited by Bafana Bafana by the score of 3-0.

SAFA president, Danny Jordaan said the association has also further been ordered to pay a fine of CHF 10,000, while Mokoena has been issued with a warning. Jordaan said as SAFA, they are deeply disappointed with this unprecedented outcome noting that it was delivered by a single-member panel without reasons and without affording the association an opportunity to present legal arguments.

“The association confirms that we have requested written reasons for the judgment and intend to lodge a formal appeal with the FIFA Appeals Committee within the prescribed 10-day period under FIFA’s disciplinary rules.

“Despite the outcome, the association emphasises its continued commitment to supporting Bafana Bafana in their qualification campaign. The players and the technical team have worked extremely hard to reach this stage, and we remain focused on ensuring they secure maximum points in the matches ahead,” he said.

Jordaan further said they apologise to the nation for this administrative oversight and will reflect on the steps to take at the conclusion of their qualifying campaign. He added that, finally, they call on all South Africans to rally behind the team during this final and crucial stage of the qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana will next face Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on 10 October 2025, followed by a clash against Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on 14 October 2025. Both matches will kick off at 6pm.

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Pastor accused of raping a minor granted bail

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

29 September 2025- The Heidelberg Magistrate’s Court has granted a pastor (57) from Ratanda aR2000 bail, with strict conditions that he must report at Nigel police station every Sunday between 8am and 4pm, refrain from contacting the complainant and not to return to Ratanda. He is facing three counts of rape of a 17-year-old girl who is a member of his congregation.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 14 September 2025, in the afternoon, the complainant received a call from the accused requesting her to come for a cleansing ceremony at the church situated at his place of residence in Ratanda. Mahanjana said when she arrived, the accused instructed her to go to the main house and enter the bedroom.

“Thereafter, the accused followed her to the bedroom, requested her to undress, but when the complainant refused, the accused forcefully removed her clothes, pushed her onto the bed, and began to apply oil on her body. The accused then proceeded to rape the complainant by penetrating her vagina with his penis twice and inserting a vibrator inside her.

“After the accused was done, the complainant managed to escape, ran home, and informed her mother about what had happened. On the same day, a case was opened against the accused, and he was arrested at his place of residence,” she said.

Mahanjana further said, in court during bail proceedings, the accused through his legal representative, asked to be released on bail because he has no previous convictions and he has a fixed address. She added that the accused said if he is not released on bail, he will suffer financially as he is a breadwinner, and that he suffers from a chronic illness.

“However, the state prosecutor, Kutelani Nndanganeni, opposed his release on bail, arguing that the accused is charged with a serious offense and that he could evade trial, as such an offense carries a hefty sentence.

“Furthermore, he said that the accused was in a position of trust which he took advantage of, that he is well known to the complainant as they stay in the same area, and that the accused can receive medical treatment in prison,” said Mahanjana.

During bail judgement, the Magistrate, Gerhard Strydom said that the accused has no previous convictions of rape, does not seem to be a flight risk and that he suffers from a chronic illness. Strydom said that such matters take long before trial commences and therefore it is in the interest of justice to release him on bail.

Mahanjana said the NPA commends the mother’s vigilance, whose swift action led to the accused’s arrest. She said the NPA urges families and communities to remain vigilant, report suspected abuse promptly and support survivors through Thuthuzela Care Centers (TCC’s), which offer medical, psychological, and legal assistance.

“This case highlights the critical role of parents in recognising signs of abuse and acting decisively. The NPA calls on South Africans to unite against GBV, fostering safe environments where children’s constitutional rights to dignity and safety are upheld, and perpetrators face the full might of the law.

“The case was postponed to 4 November 2025, for further investigations,” she said.

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Counterfeit goods worth R260m confiscated

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Picture: The police confiscate counterfeit goods/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 September 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) together with its crime-fighting partners said, they continue to record commendable progress in dismantling the illegal trade in counterfeit and illicit goods across the country. Within a week, police seized counterfeit goods valued at more than R260 million during multiple takedown operations in North West.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said more than 100 shops in and around Coligny, Klerksdorp, Lichtenburg, Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg, Ventersdorp and Zeerust, were identified and targeted between 15 and 24 September 2025.  Van Wyk said from these operations, police confiscated over 86 000 counterfeit items that include designer branded clothing, sports apparel, footwear, bags, caps, toys, and consumables.

“The police also confiscated counterfeit medicines valued at more than R45 000, along with illicit cigarettes and liquor. The integrated operations were led by the National Counterfeit and Illicit Goods Unit, supported by Public Order Policing and Crime Prevention Units in North West as well as major role players such as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Division and brand protectors,” she said.

Van Wyk further said acting under the authority of the Counterfeit Goods Act, 1997, custom officials and brand protectors play a crucial role in identifying, verifying, and detaining counterfeit items. She added that the Act protects intellectual property rights by prohibiting and preventing the trade in and manufacturing of counterfeit goods.

“These recent operations form part of ongoing national efforts to disrupt organised criminal networks, protect legitimate businesses, and safeguard the public from potentially harmful products,” said van Wyk.

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Lesotho national sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for rape

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 September 2025 – A man (40) was sentenced to two life terms imprisonment by the Potchefstroom Regional Court for rape. The convict was sentenced for raping his girlfriend in January 2023, at Ikageng Township, near Potchefstroom.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said consequent to registration of the case that was investigated by the Potchefstroom Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit, the accused, Elias Tsetla, was arrested three days later. Mokgwabone said after failing to prove his legal status in the country, Tsetla, who is from Lesotho, was further charged with contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002.

“Evidence was led in court that the girlfriend, then aged 28, arrived home and found the boyfriend who accused her of having affairs with other men. Following the exchange regarding the accusations, the convict assaulted and twice raped her.   

“Although he pleaded not guilty, the accused, who has been in custody since his arrest, was found guilty and sentenced to two life terms imprisonment for two counts of rape, sentenced to three months imprisonment or to pay a fine of R3000 for violation of Immigration Act,” he said.

He further said the court ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe, welcomed the sentences. Molefe and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari extolled Warrant Officer Jaco Jonker, the state prosecutor, advocate Annecke Du Toit and everyone who played a critical role to ensure that the conviction is secured as part of the entities’ commitment to deal firmly with violence against women and children.

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‘Sleeping with learners is wholly inappropriate and despicable’

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Picture: A pregnant learner/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 September 2025 – The Select Committee on Education, Science and the Creative Industries has expressed alarm about allegations that educators impregnated learners and paid them for termination. The committee said it was concerning that so many alleged incidents of sexual violations of learners are being discussed in retrospect on social media platforms.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Makhi Feni, condemned these alleged incidents and called on professional bodies to follow up and act accordingly. Feni said learners who have been violated in this manner must come forward and report these incidents to the police.

“South Africa’s legislative framework criminalises this act, and so does the Code of Conduct for Educators. We are shocked by the revelations on social media, and so many women are attesting to such statements. That calls for a proper investigation and appropriate sanction, even if it is retrospective. Educators cannot feast on our children when we’ve entrusted them with custodianship.

“Allegations had surfaced pointing to what appears to be a pervasive silent culture in Eastern Cape schools. Several women came out in support and even alleged that it has become “normal practice” for educators to pay learners to terminate pregnancies,” he said.

Feni further calls on the South African Council for Educators to follow up on the alleged incidents, where schools and suspected educators had been named. He added that they call on learners and parents to come forward and report these alleged incidents, even if they were approached as relationships.

“Sleeping with learners is wholly inappropriate and despicable. We, therefore, frown upon such acts. All educators have a parental responsibility when children are in their care,” said Feni.

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SA beauty pageant, Gofaone Keretetse ready for the bigger stage  

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Picture: Model and beauty pageant, Gofaone Keretetse  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

29 September 2025- To be a successful model, one needs to have a fierce character, professional attitude and work ethics beyond glittering gowns and radiant smiles. Fortunately, a South African model and beauty pageant, Gofaone Kitso Keretetse (20), possesses all that. Keretetse, who was born and bred in Khibitswane village, near Taung, is taking the entertainment industry by storm after finding her niche. 

A model and a beauty pageant in her own right, Keretetse is the finalist of Face Of Devotion competition that will take place at Johannesburg City Hall on 13 December 2025. She is currently a student at the Central University of Technology (CUT) in the Free State, pursuing her career in Education. 

“I am a compassionate, empathetic and inspirational young woman. Dignity and respect are what I value most. I firmly believe in a core principle of Ubuntu that says, “Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho Ba Bangwe”, which is loosely translated as, a person is a person through others, as it was correctly articulated by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. 

“My modelling journey started at the age of 10 after I attended one of my sister’s pageant competitions. I later participated in other pageants like Miss St Paul’s, Miss Heritage North West, Miss Ba Ga Maidi and Face Of Devotion South Africa,” said Keretetse. 

She was also crowned as Pinagare High School’s prom queen. Keretetse is currently the Face of Devotion Free State 2025 ambassador, which geared her to the national stage to represent the Free State province. 

“Being a model is more than walking on a stage and showing your beauty. Being a model means having good leadership skills and willing to lose self in the service of others. There are no requirements needed for one to be a model. 

“All you need is your confidence, communication and leadership skills and being persistent. As a student at the CUT, I believe that education is the key to success. I believe that education opens doors to new opportunities, improves socio-economic prospects and empowers the youth to become active citizens,” she said. 

Keretetse further said education plays a significant role in shaping the world, fostering creativity and promoting personal growth. She added that she sees herself as a qualified pedagogical practitioner after five years. 

“I also see myself embarking on community related projects and grooming aspiring models and beauty pageants. I believe that, in the world that we live in, women are given enough opportunities within society. Even though women are empowered, that seems to create despondency to certain individuals.

“However, I believe that women are not celebrated enough as they are supposed to. Women are the future leaders of the world. Remember, when you empower a woman, you empower the whole community. It is disheartening to see women living in fear due to the abuse they are subjected to,” said Keretetse. 

She said despite the living conditions that women are finding themselves living in, they should stand firm and fight against injustices. Keretetse said those who would like to vote for her, there are voting packages, for R50 which is equal to 10 votes, R100 to 20 votes, R200 to 50 votes, R300 to 80 votes, R500 to 150 votes and R1000 to 400 votes. 

“They can transfer their votes to: FNB Business 

Account Number: 63164524936

Branch Code: 250655

Reference: FDSA22. 

“It is requested that you send your proof of payment to 0632186945 after voting,” she said. 

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1267 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: Some of copper cables seized by the police/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

29 September 2025- Focusing on enhanced crime prevention and combating, the weekly Joint Law Enforcement operations under Operation Shanela II, conducted between 22 and 28 September 2025, across the province led to the apprehension of 1267 suspects. Through the execution of actions such as vehicle check points (VCPs), stops and searches, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses and farms, 1777 copper cables, 82 fireworks, five explosive gels, five electric detonators, tobacco products, liquor and drugs such as dagga, cocaine, crystal meth, tik and mandrax were seized.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said moreover, the operations resulted in the apprehension of 76 illegal migrants. Mokgwabone said 456 out of the 1 267 arrests were for wanted suspects who were linked to the crimes committed through forensic DNA leads.

“The arrests, among others, included 25 suspects for rape and attempted rape, 289 for assault with the intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm and common, 26 for burglary, business and residential, 34 for murder and attempted murder, 48 for driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 29 for possession of drugs, and 31 for illegal dealing in liquor.

“In Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, four suspects aged between 31 and 51, are expected to appear in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court for possession of suspected stolen goods. The suspects were arrested in the early hours of Friday morning, 26 September 2025, by Stilfontein Visible Policing and Potchefstroom Flying Squad members on the N12 (Stilfontein/Potchefstroom) road,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said the police were on patrol when they noticed an overturned white Chana bakkie and went to investigate. He added that on arrival, they discovered copper cables hidden in the nearby bushes.

“The members also spotted a suspicious Ford Ranger vehicle in the vicinity. As they approached the vehicle, it sped off, leading to a chase. The vehicle stopped after a few kilometres due to an apparent breakdown. A search conducted led to the discovery of suspected stolen copper cables in the bakkie and all three suspects, along with the driver of the Chana bakkie, were apprehended after failing to account for the copper cables.

“The copper cables, which were identified as those of Telkom, are valued at R290 000. Still in the District, a security officer in Klerksdorp arrested a suspect on Monday, 22 September 2025, after being found in possession of a bundle of signal cables,” said Mokgwabone.

He said the suspect, who was also found in possession of an axe and a spade, was handed over to the police and is facing charges of tampering with and damage to essential infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe, welcomed the arrests, which she said will positively contribute towards the reduction of crime and ensuring general safety in the province as we approach a safer festive season.

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A prayer for fallen police officers

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Picture: Police officers in a prayer for fallen police officers/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 September 2025- On Monday at around 8am, the police in Namakwa, hosted a prayer service at the District Office in Springbok. The prayer service was led by Chaplain Marsha Baard of the Employee Health and Wellness section, who delivered a powerful message.

Baard said: “On duty with God’s strength, boots on the ground with the sound of God’s army. Special prayers were offered to a member who is currently admitted in hospital in Cape Town and in remembrance of fallen members who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country.

“The service was also graced with the attendance of Colonel Diketso Lekgwathi, Acting District Commissioner, who commended and appreciated the unity and spiritual strength shown by all members present.”

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NWU to host colloquium honouring Professor John Makhene

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Picture: Professor John Makhene

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 September 2025- The North West University (NWU) said it is proud to announce a colloquium in honour of Professor John Makhene, the founding vice-chancellor of the former University of Bophuthatswana, now the NWU. The university said the event will take place on 3 October 2025, at Mmabatho Palms Hotel, Mahikeng.

The NWU Communications Manager (Mafikeng campus), Oscar Mosiane said this prestigious colloquium will celebrate Makhene’s enduring legacy as a pioneering academic, transformative leader and fierce advocate for accessible and inclusive education during one of the most pivotal periods in South African higher education history. Mosiane said the event will be held under the theme: “Academic Leadership as a Catalyst for Transformative Change”.

“The programme will include keynote tributes from senior academics and public sector leaders, panel discussions reflecting on the academic and historical significance of Makhene’s leadership and personal reflections from colleagues, former students and family.

“This includes a multimedia exhibition and cultural performances. The colloquium will provide a platform to reflect critically on the development of higher education in South Africa, acknowledge Makhene’s foundational leadership role and explore the future of ethical, transformative academic leadership in our country and on our continent,” he said.

Mosiane further said Makhene laid the foundation for an institution that grew into one of the most respected universities in South Africa. He added that as the NWU, they continue to walk the path he helped

to forge, one rooted in equity, excellence, and access,” said Mosiane.

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