Monthly Archives: September 2026

Cabinet calls for swift arrests, prosecution of femicide perpetrators

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30 September 2026 – Cabinet has called on law enforcement agencies to expedite the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killing of women in Ekurhuleni and surrounding areas. 

Cabinet’s call comes amid the increased number of murders of women whose bodies were discovered in Ekurhuleni and surrounding areas. 

A total of 13 bodies have been recovered since July 2026, including the murder of a woman whose body was discovered at Mooifontein Cemetery in the Vusimusi section of Tembisa on Saturday, 26 September 2026, and the murder of a 23-year-old who was reportedly shot and killed during an alleged robbery in Thembisa, while on her way to work on Monday, 28 September 2020.

Briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday in Pretoria, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni warned that perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) must face the full might of the law. 

She said Cabinet supports President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive to the multidisciplinary investigation team, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), to accelerate investigations and bring those responsible for the recent murders of women to justice. 

The President is set to address the nation this evening on steps being taken by government to confront GBVF. The address will take place at 7pm. 

Ntshavheni said the investigation team is pursuing several people of interest, while four suspects remain in custody after being denied bail following their court appearances.

Cabinet expressed concern over the rising incidence of gender-based violence, particularly femicide, which refers to the intentional killing of women because of their gender, often by intimate partners or people known to them.

Ntshavheni said the deliberate killing of women by their loved ones or people close to them requires a collective response from men, families, communities and society at large. 

“The rise in incidents of gender-based violence, in particular femicide – the intentional killing of a woman by a person close to them – must galvanise a societal response to protect women by men, families, communities and society in general. The murder of women intentionally by their loved ones or people close to them cannot be tolerated by any society or community,” the Minister said. 

She stressed that law enforcement agencies must act swiftly to ensure that perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted, noting that the country’s laws have been amended to provide for harsher measures in dealing with GBV-related crimes, including provisions allowing for the denial of bail.

Ntshavheni also reiterated that the government will continue to strengthen efforts to promote the safety and well-being of women and children and ensure that communities are safe.

“Let us all – men and women – take a stand against violence against women and play our part in ending the scourge of gender-based violence.” 

The Minister also acknowledged women who have been using the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre hotline to seek assistance and intervention, emphasising the importance of reporting abuse and accessing available support services. 

Cabinet has urged anyone with information that can assist in criminal investigations to report it to the police. 

Members of the public can report information through the Crime Stop toll-free number, 08600 10111, or contact the 24-hour Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428.

The GBV Command Centre can also be reached by sending a Please Call Me to 1207867#, SMSing “HELP” to 31531, or contacting Skype: Helpme GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

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Child rapist sentenced to 15 years imprisonment

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By STAFF REPORTER

30 September 2026 – A man (54) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Mitchells Plain Regional Court for raping and sexually assaulting a girl (11). Saadiq Rajap was convicted of rape and sexual assault following incidents that occurred on 10 April 2024.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Western Cape, Eric Ntabazalila said Rajap was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for rape, with five years suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of rape or sexual assault during the suspension period. Ntabazalila said he was also sentenced to five years imprisonment for sexual assault, wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of sexual assault during that period.

“The court further ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and directed the state to inform the victim of her right to make representations should Rajap be considered for parole.

“During the trial, state prosecutor Sergio Goff led evidence from the victim and a soccer teammate to whom she first reported the incident. The court heard that the victim’s friend (13) had invited her to play pool at Rajap’s house. After obtaining permission from her grandmother, she accompanied her friend.

“Rajap later asked the friend to accompany him to Mitchells Plain Town Centre to purchase a plug. Upon arrival, he instructed the friend to enter a shop, while the victim remained in the vehicle.

The victim testified that Rajap moved to the back of the taxi and touched her breasts over her clothing,” he said.

Ntabazalila further said the pair later travelled to Khayelitsha, where Rajap allegedly sent the friend to a nearby shop to buy snacks and an energy drink. He added that during her absence, he allegedly touched the victim’s breasts and private parts and inserted his finger into her vagina.

“The victim testified that she removed his hand and that Rajap subsequently offered her money in an attempt to prevent her from reporting the incident. She later confided in a soccer teammate, and her mother subsequently discovered messages relating to the incident on a cell phone shared by the two girls.

“A criminal case was opened after the victim was taken to a police station. Rajap pleaded not guilty and disputed aspects of the victim’s account. However, the court accepted the state’s evidence and convicted him,” said Ntabazalila.

He said the authority welcomed the sentence and remained committed to holding perpetrators of sexual offences againstchildren accountable. Ntabazalila said the NPA remains committed to holding perpetrators of sexual offences against children accountable while ensuring justice for victims.

He said the NPA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences face the consequences of their actions. Ntabazalila said the NPA in Western Cape welcomed the sentence, along with additional court orders barring Rajap from working with children and declaring him unfit to possess a firearm.

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A man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his partner

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

30 September 2026 – A man (42) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Scottburgh Regional Court for the murder of his partner (34) in the Mahlongwa area of Umkomaas. The evidence presented in court revealed that Sibusiso Philani Hlongwa and the deceased were living together when he murdered her in December 2024.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said on the evening of 25 December 2024, Hlongwa arrived home and asked the deceased to speak to him in an outbuilding. Ramkisson-Kara said she agreed and followed him.

“At approximately midnight, family members heard the deceased screaming inside the room. When they went to investigate, they found her bleeding profusely. She told them that Hlongwa had stabbed her before fleeing the scene.

“Paramedics were called, but the deceased was declared dead upon their arrival. The incident was reported to the police, who arrested Hlongwa the following day. During the trial, the state prosecutor Akhile Gcume led evidence from family members who found the deceased after the attack, the investigating officer and the doctor who examined her body,” she said.

Ramkisson-Kara further said the post-mortem report also formed part of the state’s case. She added that the Victim Impact Statements compiled by two family members and facilitated by Court Preparation Officer, Nokukhanya Mkhize were presented to the court.

“The family members described how the deceased’s death had negatively affected their lives and the trauma of witnessing her final moments. Combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide remained an organisational priority.

“Together with our partners in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, we will continue working to ensure that perpetrators of these offences are held accountable,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

She said in addition to the life sentence, Hlongwa was declared unfit to possess a firearm. Ramkisson-Kara said the NPA reiterated its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide are held accountable for their actions.

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Man sentenced to life imprisonment for brutal attempted murder of former partner

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

30 September 2026 – A man (38) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Fraserburg Regional Court for the attempted murder of his former partner, whom he repeatedly stabbed, resulting in the loss of her right eye. On 23 February 2024, Hendrik Blou and his former partner (23) were drinking alcohol at his parental home when she told him that she no longer loved him and left the house.

Blou allegedly followed her as she walked along the street and attacked her from behind, stabbing her repeatedly. When the complainant turned around, she recognised Blou as her attacker.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said he continued stabbing her in the face and eye until she lost consciousness. Senokoatsane said the victim later regained consciousness at Abraham Esau Hospital in Calvinia before being transferred to Kimberley for specialist treatment.

“Due to the severity of her injuries, her right eye had to be surgically removed. A second complainant witnessed the attack. Two days later, Blou allegedly threatened to kill her if she disclosed what she had seen, prompting her to report the matter to the police.

“Blou was arrested on 27 February 2024 and remained in custody throughout the trial. During the proceedings, the state presented evidence from several witnesses, including an eyewitness and two medical practitioners who testified about the extent of the victim’s injuries,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said the court found that the state had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted Blou on all counts.

He added that the witnesses were supported and prepared for trial by Court Preparation Officer Majorie De Wee, who also assisted the victim in compiling a victim impact statement detailing the physical, emotional and psychological consequences of the attack.

“During sentencing, regional court prosecutor, Darryl Bromkamp argued that the offences were serious and demonstrated a pattern of violent behaviour. The court was informed that Blou had previous convictions for murder and two counts of rape and had committed the present offences while on parole.

“The state argued that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence,” he said.

Senokoatsane said the authority remained committed to prosecuting perpetrators of serious and violent crimes, particularly those involving gender-based violence. He said the NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting perpetrators of serious and violent crimes, particularly offences involving Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

“We will continue to support victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process and pursue justice without fear, favour, or prejudice. The court agreed with the State’s submissions and sentenced Blou to life imprisonment for attempted murder.

“He was also sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for common assault, to run concurrently with the life sentence, and declared unfit to possess a firearm. The NPA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting victims and witnesses while working to protect vulnerable members of society and strengthen public confidence in the criminal justice system,” said Senokoatsane.

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Bafana aiming to keep momentum against Eritrea

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Picture: Bafana Bafana coach, Pitso Mosimane/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2026 – Bafana Bafana will be looking to maintain momentum when the South Africans face Eritrea in an away 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Wednesday night. Kick-off is at 18h00 SA time.

The Eritreans are hosting this qualifying match at the Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, as they do not have a Confederation of African Football-accredited venue in their own country.

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane’s charges got their AFCON qualifying campaign off to a winning start after beating Guinea 2-1 at the Orlando Stadium this past weekend. While Mosimane will hope that the South African senior men’s national team maintains the progress, he also warned that they would not take Eritrea lightly.

“I am happy with the result we got (in the first qualifier against Guinea), we got the result, and even the attitude was good. We need to show the same attitude against Eritrea because you can’t give respect to Guinea and not accord the same to an Eritrea side that just claimed a point away from home in Kenya,” he said.

Eritrea snatched a point away from home after a 1-1 draw with Kenya in the other Group D match also played this past weekend at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

Bafana Bafana captain, Ronwen Williams echoed Mosimane and said the team will continue to work very hard as they now shift focus to the East Africans.

“The spirit and the energy amongst ourselves are always good and we have maintained that. The guys have been open to all the changes that the coach has implemented and one way to see that is through the tactical agreements we had in the previous game, to see some of the things we worked on in training ahead of the game,” he said.

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A man sentenced to life imprisonment for raping his daughter

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By OBAKENG MAJE

30 September 2026 – A father (14) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Hartswater Regional Court for raping and sexually assaulting his biological daughter (14). The accused was convicted of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault after the court found that the state had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

According to evidence presented in court, the incident occurred on 7 October 2021, when the accused invited his children to his home to celebrate his birthday. During the early hours of the following morning, the victim and her younger siblings were sleeping in the same bed as the accused.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said after the younger children left the room, the accused prevented the victim from leaving the bed, undressed her, sexually assaulted her and raped her. Senokoatsane said the victim testified that she cried out for help, but loud music playing in the room prevented anyone from hearing her.

“Following the incident, the accused allegedly threatened to kill members of the victim’s maternal family if she disclosed the abuse.

The victim remained silent for several months until the offences came to light after she gave birth in July 2022.

“The court heard that the victim went into labour at home and gave birth with the assistance of her cousin (18), who initially believed she was suffering from severe stomach pains. The victim and her cousin were subsequently taken to hospital, where medical personnel questioned the minor about the circumstances surrounding her pregnancy and the identity of the child’s father,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said the matter was reported to the police, and the victim disclosed that her biological father was responsible. He added that the DNA testing later confirmed that the accused was the biological father of the child.

“During the trial, the accused denied the allegations and claimed that the case had been fabricated by his wife’s family. However, the court rejected his version and convicted him on both counts.

“The sentence demonstrated the authority’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring accountability for sexual offences.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting sexual offences without fear, favour, or prejudice and to ensuring that vulnerable victims, particularly children, are treated with dignity, compassion, and sensitivity throughout the criminal justice process,” said Senokoatsane.

He said during sentencing, the state prosecutor Matilda Sekhoetsane argued that the seriousness of the offences and the aggravating circumstances warranted the prescribed sentence of life imprisonment. Senokoatsane said the court also considered a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) compiled by Dimpho Nikani, in which the victim described the emotional and psychological trauma she had suffered, including feelings of betrayal, fear and distrust.

“The court sentenced the accused to life imprisonment for rape and five years imprisonment for sexual assault, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently. The NPA further emphasised the importance of reporting sexual abuse and ensuring that victims receive appropriate support and protection, particularly where abuse occurs within relationships of trust.

“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Northern Cape Division welcomed the sentence, saying it reflected the seriousness of sexual offences committed against children and the lasting impact on victims,” he said.

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Municipal Manager and two company directors in court over alleged R11 million tender fraud

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STAFF REPORTER

30 September 2026 – Blouberg Local Municipality Municipal, Manager Refilwe Jonas Ramothwala (57) and two directors of BBT Security Services (Pty) Ltd, have appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court in connection with an alleged fraudulent security services tender worth more than R11 million.

Ramothwala, Sello Herlot Mongalo (37) and Ngoako Nicolas Thoka (39) were arrested on 23 September 2026, and are collectively facing 73 charges, including theft, fraud and money laundering.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the charges stem from allegations that Blouberg Local Municipality awarded a security services tender to BBT Security Services in March 2023 after the company allegedly submitted fraudulent tender documents. The company allegedly failed to meet key technical requirements stipulated in the tender specifications, including the ownership of firearms required to provide the contracted security services.

Despite the alleged non-compliance, BBT Security Services continued providing services and received payments from the municipality over three years, amounting to more than R11 million.

NPA regional spokesperson in Limpopo, Mashudu Malabi said the authority remained committed to ensuring accountability in cases involving fraud, corruption and the misuse of public funds.

“The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to ensuring accountability in matters involving fraud, corruption, and the misuse of public funds, and will continue to prosecute such matters without fear, favour, or prejudice,” said Malabi.

Ramothwala faces an additional charge relating to the alleged contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.

She also has a pending fraud case before the Hoedspruit Regional Court, with the trial scheduled to proceed on 16 October 2026. BBT Security Services and its two directors face charges of theft, fraud and money laundering arising from the alleged irregular award and implementation of the tender.

The matter was postponed to 1 October 2026 for a formal bail application.

The NPA reiterated its commitment to prosecuting cases involving alleged financial misconduct and ensuring that public funds are protected.

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Man sentenced to eight years imprisonment for raping his neighbour

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

30 September 2026 – The Bafokeng Regional Court has sentenced Kabelo Rantwa (34) to eight years imprisonment for raping his neighbour (38) in Chaneng Village, near Rustenburg. The incident occurred on 11 November 2023, when Rantwa encountered the complainant at a local entertainment venue, where she had been socialising.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said later that evening, he went to her residence, where he found her undressed and proceeded to rape her. Mabasa said the complainant fought back during the assault before Rantwa fled the scene.

“During sentencing proceedings, Prosecutor Zolo Mpayipheli presented a victim impact statement compiled by Court Preparation Officer Kenosi Pako. In her statement, the complainant described the profound impact of the rape on her life and that of her two minor children, who witnessed her struggle with Rantwa during the incident.

“The state argued that rape remains a serious offence with devastating consequences, particularly for women and children.

The prosecution further submitted that the seriousness of the offence was compounded by the fact that Rantwa was the complainant’s neighbour, someone from whom she was entitled to expect respect and safety,” she said.

Mabasa further said although Rantwa pleaded guilty, the state argued that his plea should not automatically be regarded as evidence of genuine remorse. She added that Rantwa had been released on bail and remained out of custody until the finalisation of the matter.

“The authority remained committed to prosecuting sexual offences and ensuring that victims received the necessary support throughout the criminal justice process. The NPA remains unwavering in its commitment to prosecuting sexual offences and ensuring that victims receive the support they need throughout the criminal justice process.

“The court agreed with the state’s submissions and sentenced Rantwa to eight years imprisonment. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. The NPA welcomes the sentence, reaffirming its commitment to prosecuting sexual offences and supporting victims of gender-based violence,” said Mabasa.

The North West Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari welcomed the outcome and commended Mpayipheli, Pako and South African Police Service Detective Olebogeng Tsame for their professionalism and commitment in securing the conviction. Makhari said the NPA reiterated its commitment to supporting survivors through victim-centred interventions, including the Thuthuzela Care Centre programme, while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.

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Repeat rapist sentenced to effective 40 years imprisonment

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

30 September 2026 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the effective 40-year prison sentence imposed on Kamogelo Kopang (22) for raping a woman (18) in Maruping Village, near Kuruman. Kopang was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment by the Mothibistad Regional Court.

The NPA regional spokesperson in Northern Cape, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the sentence brings his total effective imprisonment term to 40 years, following a previous 20-year sentence for another rape committed approximately two years earlier. Senokoatsane said the sentence demonstrated the criminal justice system’s commitment to holding repeat sexual offenders accountable.

“This conviction and substantial sentence demonstrate the criminal justice system’s resolve in holding repeat sexual offenders accountable. The court heard that on 28 September 2024, the victim was walking to a friend’s house after leaving her boyfriend’s residence when she encountered Kopang.

“He allegedly grabbed her, threatened her with a knife, forced her to the ground and raped her. After the attack, he reportedly insisted that she agree that they had engaged in consensual sexual intercourse before fleeing,” he said.

Senokoatsane further said the traumatised victim managed to reach her friend’s house, where she immediately reported the rape. He added that a few days later, she spotted Kopang at the Mothibistad Magistrate’s Court, where he was appearing in connection with another rape case.

“She alerted the police, leading to his arrest. While in custody, DNA evidence linked him to a separate rape case, in which he later pleaded guilty and received a 20-year prison sentence. During sentencing proceedings, the state prosecutor Bernice Bronkhorst-Oor, presented a Victim Impact Statement detailing the emotional, psychological and personal harm suffered by the victim.

“The state argued that no substantial and compelling circumstances justified departing from the prescribed minimum sentence. It also highlighted Kopang’s previous rape conviction as an aggravating factor,” said Senokoatsane.

He said NPA commended Bronkhorst-Oor for her prosecution of the matter and Court Preparation Officer, Beauty Moreeng for preparing witnesses and facilitating the Victim Impact Statement. Senokoatsane said the Kuruman Thuthuzela Care Centre also assisted the victim with medical treatment and psychosocial support following the incident.

“The NPA remained committed to prosecuting sexual offences, protecting victims’ dignity and ensuring that survivors’ experiences were placed before the courts,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting Regional Court Magistrate Stephen Hinana agreed that there were no grounds to reduce the sentence and ruled that the two sentences should not run concurrently because the offences were committed approximately two years apart. Kopang was also declared unfit to possess a firearm or firearm licence, and his particulars were ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

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Rising interest rates and austerity are worsening SA’s unemployment crisis

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Picture: High rate of unemployment grapples SA/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

30 September 2026 – The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has raised concern over South Africa’s unemployment crisis, warning that government austerity measures and rising interest rates are placing additional pressure on workers and businesses. In a statement, MISA said the country’s unemployment crisis had reached catastrophic levels and accused the state of deepening the problem rather than addressing it.

The association’s concerns follow the South African Reserve Bank’s decision to increase the repo rate by 25 basis points, from 7% to 7.25%, marking the second increase this year.

MISA CEO, Martlé Keyter said the combination of reduced public spending and higher borrowing costs was placing a double burden on workers. Keyter said government austerity and rising interest rates are a double blow to workers.

“One starves the economy of the investment that creates jobs, the other raises the cost of everything from a home loan to a car. MISA opposed measures that deepened poverty and called for public investment and job creation to be prioritised in economic policy.

“MISA said the latest repo rate increase could have direct consequences for the retail motor industry, as higher interest rates make vehicle financing more expensive, potentially reducing demand for vehicles and putting jobs at risk,” she said.

Keyter further said they have noted that dealerships, workshops and aftermarket businesses across the motor industry value chain employ more than 500 000 people. She added that increased borrowing costs would place additional pressure on households already struggling with vehicle repayments and other expenses.

“MISA called for economic policies that prioritise public investment, industrial development and employment creation to address the country’s unemployment crisis,” said Keyter.

Meanwhile, Independent Economist, Duma Gqubule criticised the country’s record on job creation. Gqubule said South Africa had created approximately two million jobs over the past 17 years, while the labour force continued to grow by between 600 000 and 700 000 people annually.

He argued that economic growth alone would not be sufficient to address unemployment, calling for stronger industrial policies and an expansion of public employment programmes.

“We need a 4 to 6% GDP growth rate just for the 600,000 who are joining the workforce. Even with a growth rate of 6%, we will still have high unemployment. So, we have to do more than just grow the economy faster.

“We need strong industrial policies to create labour-intensive sectors. We have to rapidly expand public employment programmes,” he said.

Gqubule also criticised austerity measures, arguing that cuts to infrastructure, healthcare and education spending undermine job creation and discourage private-sector investment. He further raised concerns about the cancellation of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which he said had created more than two million work opportunities.

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