ANCYL in Bojanala flagged ‘rigged’ ANC councillor candidate selection processes


By BAKANG MOKOTO

23 July 2026 – The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in Bojanala Region has raised concerns on the state of the ANC and the ongoing ANC councillor candidate selection processes across all municipalities in Bojanala. The ANCYL regional executive committee (REC) said it has noted with grave concern the allegations of manipulation, interference and undemocratic practices in the candidate selection processes across various ANC branches in Bojanala. 

According to the ANCYL Bojanala regional spokesperson, Pako Mokua, this conduct is a direct attack on the democratic character of the ANC and a betrayal of the trust placed in it by communities. Mokua said it is particularly alarming that this is happening at a time when young people, who remain largely non-aligned to narrow factional interests are voluntarily stepping forward to offer themselves for public office and community service.

“We must state categorically clear that the ANC is in a crisis of electoral decline, currently sitting at 40% nationally. What we are witnessing in Bojanala is not organisational renewal, but self-destruction. The current infighting and alleged manipulations are not a result of external infiltration. They are a self-inflicted wound intended to weaken and bury the ANC ahead of the next local government elections.

“The organisational report confirmed a disturbing and consistent pattern in branches across Bojanala, where young candidates who emerged through legitimate, democratic community processes are being systematically targeted, removed and replaced by ANC branch executive committees and certain regional deployees,” he said.

Mokua further said the REC cites, as a case in point, the unjustifiable re-run ordered in Rustenburg Sub-Region, Ward 1-Phatsima village by the ANC BEC leadership. This decision is a blatant subversion of the will of the people and sets a dangerous precedent that threatens to collapse confidence in the ANC. He added that the ANCYL condemns in the strongest terms the tendency to undermine community outcomes through rigged branch general meetings (BGMs), where membership registers are manipulated by ANC branch secretaries.

“This is an attack on the sovereignty of the branch and on the renewal agenda of the ANC. We call on all young people who were elected and endorsed in community meetings to report any acts of victimisation, removal or manipulation to us.

“The ANCYL Bojanala will closely monitor all selection processes and provide immediate political and organisational support to all young people contesting both ward and proportional representation councillors in line with the ANC’s commitment on generational mix and renewal. The REC resolved that every third name on the PR list must be a young person during the reordering process,” said Mokua.

He said this is a non-negotiable principle to guarantee the future leadership of the ANC. Mokua said any attempt to tamper with this principle will be challenged.

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Former Speaker NA, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula’s corruption case to resume in court


Former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 July 2026 – The trial against the former Speaker of Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula commenced at the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Pretoria, wherein the first witness took the stand. The state has called upon its first witness, General Bantubonke Holomisa to testify as one of the complainants in this matter.

Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said Mapisa-Nqakula is facing 12 counts of corruption and money laundering wherein she is accused of soliciting and receiving R4.5 million, with R2.1 million allegedly received as cash from a service provider. Mamothame said the matter was postponed to 23 July 2026, for further trial and the state is expected to call on its next witness to the stand.

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Moretele Local Municipality mayor, Geroge Manyike engages with community members during Imbizo


Picture: Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike

By REGINALD KANYANE

23 July 2026 – The Moretele Local Municipality mayor, George Manyike has today hosted a community Imbizo at the Dipetlelwane Sports Ground, where he accounted to residents on the municipality’s programmes and service delivery commitments. Community members from wards 2, 3, 6, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, and surrounding areas, gathered to engage directly with Manyike, who was accompanied by Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), councillors, and senior municipal officials.

According to Manyike, the Imbizo provided residents with an opportunity to raise concerns, ask questions and receive updates on key municipal programmes and development initiatives. He further said the discussions focused on critical issues affecting communities such as water provision, sanitation, electricity, roads, housing, infrastructure development and local economic opportunities.

“By bringing together residents from several wards, the municipality encouraged a broader and more inclusive dialogue on matters affecting the wider Moretele community, while reinforcing the principles of transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.

“We encouraged residents to continue working closely with the municipality to improve service delivery and community development. These community engagements are an important platform for ensuring that local government remains accountable and responsive to the needs of our people. Together, we can build a better Moretele through active public participation,” he added.

Manyike said the municipality remains committed to strengthening engagement with communities through regular public participation platforms that promote transparency, responsiveness, and collaborative governance.

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Team SA displays exceptional performance at World Spelling Bee Championship


Picture: Team SA during World Spelling Bee Championship competition/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

23 July 2026 – The North West Department of Education has congratulated Team South Africa after securing a fourth place at the World Spelling Bee Championship held in Shanghai, China, from 13 to 20 July 2026. The department said among the team’s outstanding performers was a Grade 7 learner from Klerksdorp Primary School, Mbulelo Tolom (13).

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said Tolom was the youngest member of the six-member Team South Africa. Motsumi said individually, Tolom achieved an impressive 6th place in the World Spelling Bee Championship.

“He competed against learners from higher grades and demonstrating exceptional spelling ability, determination and resilience on the international stage. So, we would like to commend the team’s outstanding performance on the international stage.

“This is exceptional achievement at an international level and their performance demonstrates the high quality of education provided in our schools and confirms that South African learners can compete with the very best in the world,” she said.

Motsumi further said she is also exceptionally proud of Mbulelo Tolom for achieving the 6th place overall in the World Spelling Bee Championship. She added that as the youngest member of Team South Africa, Tolom competed against learners from higher grades and from some of the best schools across the world.

“His achievement proves that one’s background does not determine one’s destination, but hard work, determination and commitment can lead to success. Tolom has shown that South African learners have the talent and confidence to compete on the global stage. He is an inspiration and a positive role model for many young people in the North West and across the country.

“Team South Africa returned home with a gold medal from the World Spelling Bee Championship after delivering an outstanding performance at the prestigious international competition,” said Motsumi.

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Jacobs mulls her inspiring journey in police


Picture: Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit member, Sergeant Brisela Jacobs/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2026 – The police in Namakwa continue to recognise and celebrate the dedication, resilience and invaluable contribution of women in policing. Sergeant Brisela Jacobs of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit shared her inspiring journey within the SAPS, reflecting on her beginnings as a Reservist in 2006, before officially joining the Service as a student in 2013.

Jacobs’ commitment to serving and protecting communities has seen her progress to the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit, where she currently serves as an Advanced Driver. Her responsibilities include conducting highway patrols, performing vehicle checks and contributing to road safety and crime prevention initiatives along the N7 and N14 routes within the Namakwa District.

“I am passionate about my role and the aspects of highway policing inspires me the most. This gives me an opportunity to serve communities with skill, precision, professionalism and commitment, while contributing to safer roads and ensuring the safety and security of road users across the district.

“As a woman in uniform, I would also like to use the platform to deliver a powerful message to women by encouraging them to recognise their worth and to speak out against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF),” she said.

Jacobs further said women are valuable, precious and they should know that storms do not come to break, but to build them. She added that they should break away from domestic violence, GBVF and break the silence.

“So, I would like to encourage women in the SAPS to conduct themselves responsibly on social media platforms and to remain mindful of the principles and professional standards prescribed by SAPS directives, which provides guidance on professional conduct and communication within the SAPS.

“One of the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit’s successes involves the tracing of a stolen vehicle through the use of an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) scanner. The incident demonstrated the value of technology in supporting intelligence-driven policing and enhancing the ability of police officials to detect and respond to criminal activity,” said Jacobs.

She applauded her colleagues in the Namakwa Highway Patrol Unit for their continued teamwork, dedication and commitment to policing. Jacobs also acknowledged the leadership and guidance of the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, whose support continues to contribute towards strengthening effective policing and service delivery throughout the district.

Meanwhile, Andrews said: “The SAPS in Namakwa remains committed to recognising the contribution of women in policing and empowering its members to serve communities with integrity, professionalism and dedication.”

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SAPS warns public against online shopping scams


By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2026 – The police in Northern Cape are urging members of the public to exercise extreme caution when conducting online transactions following a number of reported online shopping scams, particularly in Upington in the ZF Mgcawu District. The police have received several complaints from unsuspecting community members, who were allegedly defrauded after responding to advertisements for various products posted on social media platforms and other online channels.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said in the reported cases, victims were lured into transferring money for goods advertised online. Shemane said, however, after making payment, the purchased products were never delivered.

“In some instances, the collection addresses provided by the alleged sellers were found to be fictitious or non-existent. SAPS is concerned about the increasing prevalence of online scams and is calling on the public to remain vigilant and to exercise caution when responding to online advertisements, particularly those offering goods at prices that appear too good to be true.

“The members of the public are advised to verify the legitimacy of online sellers before making any payments. Avoid transferring money to unknown individuals without first confirming the authenticity of the seller and the advertised product,” he said.

Shemane further said the public should be cautious of sellers who insist on immediate payment or provide suspicious collection or delivery arrangements. He added that they should verify physical addresses and contact details provided by online sellers.

“Where possible, use secure and reputable online shopping platforms that offer buyer protection. Contact their bank immediately if they suspect that they have fallen victim to an online scam. SAPS further urges members of the public to remain cautious when engaging in online or telephonic communications.

“If in doubt, contact your bank or the police directly for assistance and advice. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities to their nearest police station, contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or submit a report via the MySAPS App,” he said.

Shemane said in cases involving extortion, members of the public can contact the National Extortion Hotline on 0800 911 011. He said the SAPS appeals to communities to remain vigilant and to share information about suspected scams with family members, friends and other community members to prevent others from falling victim to these criminal activities.

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Two men jailed for attempted murder


By AGISANANG SCUFF

22 July 2026 – Two men from Tsineng village, near Kuruman were sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each by the Kuruman Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after the accused, Tiisetso Tlhaole (25) and Tlhophang Batsamai (33) brutally assaulted Khumoetsile Aubrey Malekanyo (37) on 28 October 2023.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said a diligent investigative work of Detective Sergeant Khumoetsile Setlhauno of the Batlharos Detective Service led to the successful conviction and sentencing. Litabe said the matter was reported to the police after the victim was admitted to hospital with severe head injuries on the day of the incident.

“The police registered a case of attempted murder and pursued all available leads, which subsequently linked both accused to the attack. The investigation revealed that the two men assaulted the victim by striking him on the head with a rock, leaving him with serious injuries.

“The court found both accused guilty of attempted murder and sentenced each of them to twelve years imprisonment of which four years were suspended for five years on condition that they are not convicted of attempted murder or a similar offence committed during the period of suspension,” he said.

Litabe further said they were also declared unfit to possess firearms. He added that the accused will each serve an effective eight years imprisonment.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, welcomed the sentence and commended Setlhauno for his dedication and outstanding investigative work, which ensured that justice was served.

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A man jailed for raping three minors


By BAKANG MOKOTO

22 July 2026 – A man (69) was sentenced to 20 years by the Kuruman Regional Court for multiple rapes. The accused raped three girls aged 6 and 8 on 12 June 2026.  

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said Detective Constable Beauty Majola of Kuruman Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, ensured that justice was served for three young children. Litabe said a girl (6) was returning from a weekend visit to her aunt in Kuruman when she complained of pain and discomfort after she bathed.

“The child’s mother enquired from her sister as to what transpired during the visit. The child then revealed that they were playing in the street on 12 June 2022 in the afternoon when the accused called them to his shack.

“Upon entering the shack, the accused instructed them to remove their clothes and sexually assaulted them. At a later stage, he called a girl (6) again and raped her for the second time. The matter was subsequently reported to the police and the accused was arrested,” he said.

Litabe further said the accused briefly appeared in court on several occasions. He added that he was eventually convicted and sentenced.

“The court found him guilty on three counts of rape and sentenced him to 20 years imprisonment for each count. The sentences will run concurrently and the accused will serve an effective 20 years imprisonment,” said Litabe.

Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended the investigating officer for her sterling investigation and ensuring that justice was served for the three minor victims.

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SAPS in Northern Cape dissipates bribery WhatsApp messages  


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

22 July 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape has noted with concern a WhatsApp message currently circulating on various social media platforms, which seeks to implicate the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga in an alleged demand for payment in connection with a criminal case docket. The Office of the Provincial Commissioner wishes to place it on record that the allegations contained in the circulating message are false and without any factual basis.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien said Ngubelanga has not demanded or solicited any payment in exchange for the handling, withdrawal or any other action relating to a case docket. Gamieldien said the SAPS Northern Cape strongly condemns the dissemination of false and misleading information aimed at tarnishing the reputation and integrity of senior police officials and undermining public confidence in the South African Police Service (SAPS).

“The members of the public are urged to exercise caution and refrain from forwarding or sharing unverified messages on social media platforms. The circulation of false information can cause unnecessary alarm and may have serious consequences for individuals who are falsely implicated.

“The SAPS Northern Cape further emphasises that any allegation of corruption, extortion or criminal conduct involving a police official should be reported through the appropriate law-enforcement channels, where such allegations can be properly investigated,” she said.

Gamieldien further said the SAPS remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability in the execution of its constitutional mandate. She added that any person with credible information relating to alleged criminal conduct is encouraged to approach the relevant authorities rather than resorting to the circulation of unverified allegations on social media.

“The SAPS Northern Cape will not be distracted by attempts to undermine the credibility of the organisation or its members through the dissemination of malicious and unsubstantiated information.

“The public is further advised that appropriate steps will be considered against persons responsible for creating and circulating defamatory content, where there is sufficient evidence to do so,” said Gamieldien.

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