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Opinion: “A Hand of God or a Sign of Decay? How the Viola Motsumi–Collen Maine Recording Exposes the ANC’s Deepening Crisis and Betrayal of Renewal”

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Picture: Former Matlosana Local Municipality mayor, China Dodovu

By China Dodovu

2 March 2026- I analogies that the recording widely circulating ostensibly featuring Viola Motsumi, the MEC of Education (also ANC Provincial Deputy Secretary) in North West and the former ANC Youth League President, Collin Maine is “A Hand of God” and symbolises the ANC ancestors who are tirelessly working to free our movement from the grip of the evil agendas characterising it.

Lo and behold, the recording is clear-cut, tangible material evidence to vindicate my long-standing claims that the counter revolutionary forces have infiltrated the ANC in the North West and are hellbent to bury it alive in their uncontrollable appetite for self-enrichment to feed their greed and to sustain their patronage networks.

Thinking deep about the recording makes me very angry as I see it as an epitome, a manifestation and a tip of an iceberg of what the ANC has become. It is not the only scandal that we have seen lately but it’s just an example of what is so glaring in our faces, representing how our leaders continue to spit in the face of the ANC’s renewal program – no wonder Unity in the ANC can’t get off the ground.

Viola Motsumi’s utterances signify the worst cunning ANC leader who is resolute in her conviction to unflinchingly work against its renewal project even ready to die if the unity of ANC cadres is to happen. What we are witnessing here doesn’t only stem from her political ignorance or deficiencies but is a direct insult of what the ANC has stood for over decades.

Motsumi’s arrogance has blinded her and grown her too fat to a point where she can’t realize the enormity of her utterances as she is sucked into a vortex of factional battles rather than uniting the cadres of her movement.

In the face of the political crisis facing the ANC caused by divisions and factions, she exhibits a “don’t care attitude and arrogance of the first degree”, making a renewal project a mirage.

Unfortunately, she can say or behave as she likes because she knows there won’t be consequences. Motsumi is a product of a deeply rotten patronage system that rewards political loyalty and pays no regard to merit or competence. After all merit or competence were not the requirements for her election and they will not be the benchmarks on which to judge her actions.

She is just one part of a vast system of cronyism, degeneracy and greed that has engulfed our movement – a system that is also fraught with buying votes and rigging electoral processes.

Looking at the totality of the situation, Motsumi is a reflection of a lot that is wrong within the ANC today. With such an obvious, overwhelming political scandal of bringing disunity in the ANC, how possible we still call her our leader? How do we allow such a third grade and a reckless junkie to represent our movement in government? How do we take such a wedge driver seriously to chart a prosperous future for a united ANC?

If the ANC was a stable organisation and not tainted by foreign tendencies, Motsumi would be reprimanded, ordered to redress or even be fired for her statements which are colored with venom and perennial hatred for the organisation she leads and claims to love.

Today our movement is standing at the precipice of upheaval and crisis as a result of factions and divisions. If we are not careful, the replication and proliferation of Motsumi’s wayward behaviour to the ANC and other collegial constructs of our society will be detrimental and fatal especially to the ANC’s future electoral fortunes.

In the face of this reckless enthusiasm by Motsumi, as loyal and dedicated cadres, our determination to live and walk with the ANC’s renewal project must not falter. Our awe and wonder must not falter either, for if we don’t push on, the ANC itself will succumb and be blown into insubstantial wisps of nothingness by these instant coffee creamers like Motsumi who survive and lead through rigging and manipulation of ANC electoral processes to emerge as leaders.

Only decisive disciplinary actions can help to quickly downgrade such leaders like Motsumi to junk status so that they are obliterated from the political scenes and evaporate into oblivion. We must have confidence and belief in the renewal project and we must act – for if we don’t act, our call for unity in our movement will be a pipedream.

(Note: China Dodovu is a member of the ANC and the content of the letter remains his views. The Guardian Newspaper and its associates do not agree nor disagree with content of the letter)

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Six gang members nabbed for double murder

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By STAFF REPORTER

2 March 2026- Following violent confrontations between two apparent rival groups in Letlhabile, near Brits, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has deployed a dedicated Task Team to stabilise the area and investigate the recent incidents of gang-related violence. Naidoo said this decisive intervention resulted in the arrest of six suspects who appeared before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 26 February 2026, on charges of murder.

He further said the arrests relate to an incident that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 21 February 2026, at a tavern in Maboloka. Naidoo added that it is alleged that the six suspects believed to be members of the so-called “6-4 Gang”, attacked and assaulted two men, Tshiamo Mokomane (18) and Godfrey Pitsi (31).

“The victims sustained multiple injuries and were transported to a local clinic, where they were both certified dead. The accused, Phumelelo Fortunate Mokoena (21), Mpumelelo Thapelo Masilela (22), Koketso Tumanyane (20), Amogelang Mathimba (20), Vincent Ntsanko Chabalala (20) and Keabetse Phiri (20) — were remanded in custody until 24 March 2026.

“In addition to the murder charges, Keabetse Phiri is also facing a charge of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), arising from a separate incident reported on the same night,” he said.

Meanwhile, Naidoo emphasised that the police will not tolerate any form of gang-related violence that threatens the safety and stability of communities. He said police have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to gang-related criminality in Letlhabile and surrounding areas and the deployment of the Task Team demonstrates police’s commitment to restoring calm and ensuring that those responsible for these senseless acts of violence are brought to book.

“We assure the community that police visibility will be intensified through high-density operations, stop-and-search actions, and intelligence-driven interventions. Lastly, we urge community members to work with law enforcement by providing information that can assist ongoing investigations.

“Investigations into related incidents are ongoing,” said Naidoo.

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Two men nabbed for allegedly selling drugs

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Picture: Some of drugs confiscated during the search/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

2 March 2026- The multi-disciplinary Frances Baard District Illicit Mining Task Team is intentional in squeezing the operational space of criminals in the Frances Baard District. On 27 February 2026, the police who were conducting routine vehicle patrols in and around the central business district, received a tip-off about a red Toyota Etios parked in Belgravia with occupants allegedly suspected to be selling drugs.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the police swiftly responded and on arrival, found two men sitting inside the vehicle. Shemane said the police instructed them to disembark the vehicle.

“During the search, police found and confiscated drugs with an estimated value of R 26 600, substantial amounts of cash and the vehicle as it was used in a commission of crime. Further police operations led to the confiscation of dangerous weapons.

“The two suspects aged 41and 42 were subsequently arrested for dealing in drugs. They are expected to appear in court soon. The multi-disciplinary task team will continue with heightened visibility patrols in its quest to squeeze the operational space of criminals,” he said.

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Police uncovered drugs after a tip-off

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Picture: Two suspects nabbed for possession of drugs/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

2 March 2026- The relentless determination by members of Frances Baard District Illicit Mining Task Team uncovered drugs after a tip-off regarding possible drugs hidden at a premises in Warrenton on 28 February 2026. The multi-disciplinary task team searched the identified house allegedly involved in drugs related activities.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said a search led to the apprehension of two suspects between the ages of 30 and 38, and the confiscation of mandrax tablets and tik with an estimated value of R 5600. Shemane said the pair was subsequently arrested for possession of drugs.

“In an unrelated incident in Kimberley, as the police were patrolling in Old De Beers Road and conducting stop and search operations, they noticed a man crossing the road carrying items in his pockets and acting suspicious. The police approached, stopped the suspect and asked to conduct a search on him.

“During the search, police found different types of cellphones wrapped with black plastic, as well as cash in his possession. The police discovered additional cellphones after further investigation at his residence,” he said.

Shemane further said the suspect could not account for the cellphones found in his possession. He added that the suspect (42) was arrested for possession of suspected stolen property and detained.

“The suspects are expected to appear in different courts soon. The prevention of illicit mining and related crimes will continue unabated in the district,” said Shemane.

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977 suspects nabbed during Operation Shanela II

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Picture: Some of money and drugs confiscated during the raids/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

2 March 2026- The determination of the police in the Northern Cape was apparent during the execution of Operation Shanela II across all five districts in the province, resulting in the arrest of 977 offenders. The police said executed from 23 February 2026 to 1 March 2026, the operation consisted of ongoing intelligence-led actions focused on combating crime in identified hotspots, and intensifying safety within communities.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said coordinated actions were led by the Deputy Provincial Commissioners, District Commissioners, Provincial Heads, and Senior officers in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies. Ehlers said throughout the operation, multiple premises were searched.

“This included the search of 25 464 individuals and 11 559 vehicles. Operational interventions included stop-and-search actions, high-visibility patrols, vehicle checkpoints (VCPs), and roadblocks. Numerous individuals were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and for being drunk in public.

“Additionally, multi-disciplinary teams participated in inter-provincial cross-border operations coordinated by the Free State province. These actions resulted in the combating of crimes across the Provincial borders in the province,” she said.

Ehlers further said detectives conducted tracing operations, leading to the arrest of wanted suspects who had been evading law enforcement for various offences. She added that compliance inspections were carried out at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recycling facilities, firearm dealers, informal businesses, mines, and farms to ensure compliance with relevant legislation.

 “As a result, 24 unlicensed liquor outlets were shut down for non-compliance violations. In total, 977 suspects were arrested for offences including drug-related crimes, illegal liquor trading, robbery, murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and burglary.

“Large quantities of alcohol and drugs were confiscated during the operations. Authorities also seized copper cables, dangerous weapons, fireworks and cash believed to be proceeds of criminal activities,” said Ehlers.

She said the police, together with Community Policing Structures (CPS), and government departments continue to conduct awareness campaigns addressing gender-based violence, contact crimes, drug and alcohol abuse, crime efforts to ensure the safety of the youth, and other emerging crime trends.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, along with her management team, welcomed the successful outcomes and commended the collaborative efforts with other departments to protect communities and ensure safety and security throughout the province. Otola said the public is encouraged to share valuable information that can assist with the arrest of perpetrators and ensure safer communities.

“Information can be reported via the MySAPS App or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111,” she said.

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ANC calls for urgent dialogue in the Middle East

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By OBAKENG MAJE

2 March 2026- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa and the Government of the Republic of South Africa expresses deep concern regarding the escalation of tensions in the Middle East. Ramaphosa said these developments pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security, with far-reaching humanitarian, diplomatic and economic consequences.

He further calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to act in a manner consistent with international law, international humanitarian law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. Ramaphosa added that Article 51 of the UN Charter provides for self-defence only when a state has been subjected to an armed invasion.

“Anticipatory self-defence is not permitted under international law and self-defence cannot be based on assumption or anticipation. Experience has repeatedly demonstrated that there can be no military solution to fundamentally political problems that can and should be resolved diplomatically.

“Military confrontation has never delivered sustainable peace, nor has it addressed the legitimate grievances that underlie conflict. Long-term peace and stability can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and a genuine commitment to justice and coexistence,” he said.

Ramaphosa therefore, reiterates his call for intensified diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and create space for continued meaningful negotiations. He urged the international community, including multilateral institutions and regional partners, to redouble efforts aimed at promoting mediation and peaceful resolution.

“As a nation that has emerged from conflict through dialogue and reconciliation, South Africa remains steadfast in its belief that peace is not only possible, but imperative for the shared future of the Middle East and the world,” said Ramaphosa.

Meanwhile, the African National Congress has shared the same sentiments. ANC said it expresses a deep concern at the escalating tensions in the Middle East, which threaten regional and global peace and security.

The ANC spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said the intensification of hostilities carries serious humanitarian, diplomatic and economic consequences. Bhengu said the ANC also conveys its sincere condolences to the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following reports of the passing of their Supreme Leader, extending sympathies to his family and to the Iranian nation during this period of mourning.

“Guided by South Africa’s principled foreign policy rooted in justice, peace and respect for international law, the ANC calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint.

“All actions must be consistent with international law, international humanitarian law and the Charter of the United Nations. Article 51 of the UN Charter provides for self-defence only in response to an armed attack, and does not permit anticipatory self-defence based on assumption or conjecture,” she said.

Bhengu said the ANC reiterates that there can be no lasting military solution to fundamentally political conflicts. She said escalation deepens instability and suffering of innocent people, while durable peace can only be secured through inclusive dialogue, meaningful negotiations and a genuine commitment to coexistence.

“We therefore urge the international community, including multilateral institutions and regional partners, to intensify diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation and peaceful resolution.

“As a movement that led South Africa to freedom through dialogue and reconciliation, the ANC remains steadfast in its belief that peace is not only possible, but imperative for the shared future of the Middle East and the world,” said Bhengu.

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Police are looking for missing Charlotte von Wielligh

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Picture: Missing Charlotte von Wielligh/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 February 2026- The police in Upington are requesting the assistance of the public in locating a missing woman, Charlotte von Wielligh (43), who was last seen on 21 February 2026, in Upington before she reportedly left for Danielskuil, where she packed some clothes and left in her white Mazda 3, with registration number CLT 536 NC.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Omphile Masegela said family lost contact with her soon after that, her phone is unreachable and they have been trying to locate her unsuccessfully. Masegela said anyone with information that can assist in locating von Wielligh can contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Roos on 082 495 4615 or 054 337 3400 or alternatively report on mySAPS App.

“The public is urged to report missing persons as soon as possible. No waiting period applies when reporting a missing person,” she said.

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EPWP beneficiaries lend a helping hand  

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Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong officially opened the McDougalls Bay Public Ablution facility in Port Nolloth/Supplied 

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

27 February 2026- The Northern Cape MEC for Roads and Public Works, Fufe Makatong officially opened the McDougalls Bay Public Ablution facility in Port Nolloth. Makatong said the facility valued at R390 000 and constructed over two financial years, was delivered through the Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works EPWP Grant, a program specifically designed to combine service delivery with meaningful job creation in communities that need it most.

“Today, we are celebrating not only a new piece of community infrastructure, but the determination and skill of the local Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants who built it with their own hands.

“We must never speak about infrastructure without speaking about people. Every rand of EPWP investment is a statement that infrastructure development and job creation are not separate goals, they are one and the same,” she said.

Makatong further said during the construction of the facility, a total of 19 work opportunities were created through the program. She added that, in a demonstration of true community ownership, the bricks used in the construction were manufactured by EPWP participants themselves at the municipal brick yard.

“The EPWP, led by the Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works, is a national program that provides temporary employment and training to unemployed and unskilled workers, giving participants an income, transferable skills, and restored dignity.

“In the Richtersveld Local Municipality alone, 124 employees and participants have been placed through the EPWP grant from July 2025 to date. The McDougalls Bay public ablution facility has been designed with full inclusivity at its core,” said Makatong.

She said it caters for males and females, people living with disabilities and members of the LGBTQI+ community. Makatong called on the community to take ownership of the facility, noting that it represents more than a government project. 

“It is a product of community voices and patient advocacy. This facility belongs to you. It is a product of your voices and your patience, and I ask that you protect it, maintain it, and take pride in it as a community asset.

“The opening of the facility forms part of a broader EPWP investment in the Richtersveld that also includes the cleaning of the municipal CBD, fencing and paving of the municipal parking area, and brick manufacturing at the municipal brick yard,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Richtersveld Local Municipality mayor, Cornell Knoph said: “The facility will serve tourists and visitors who come to this stretch of the Northern Cape coastline, ensuring they are welcomed by dignified, functional and accessible amenities.”

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Widespread, persistent water challenges continue to rock clinic

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Picture: Mothanthanyane clinic

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 February 2026- Widespread, persistent water and sanitation challenges continue to rock the clinic in Mothanthanyane village, near Taung. It is alleged that the clinic was forced to partially close due to severe, chronic water shortages that are crippling health service delivery and compromising hygiene.

One of the employees at the clinic who refused to be named for fear of reprisal said the crisis is exacerbated by failing infrastructure, poor maintenance and lack of electricity. She said it has been three months since they experienced this contrasting issue.

“Patients had to be returned back home due to lack of water within the facility. The facility has been without running water for over three months, leading to severe sanitation issues and frustration among staff and patients.

“We have reported this matter to the North West Department of Health, but we continue to face service delivery, maintenance, and equipment issues,” said our source.

The North West Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane said it is aware of water and electricity issues at the clinic. Lekgethwane said they can also confirm that the provision of water is the responsibility of Magalies Water. 

“At the same time, the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) is responsible for providing the community with water on an emergency basis.  However, the department upon realizing that there was no water provision at Mothanthanyaneng village, procured a water tank as an emergency relief for consumption by staff and patients.

“The borehole at the clinic will be serviced to ensure that it supplies water when Magalies Water is not supplying water. The maintenance team of artisans was dispatched to Monthanthanyaneng clinic to resolve the electricity supply issue,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi during his State of the Province (SOPA) said, Operation Bulela Metsi remains a critical initiative to fast-track and bolster their efforts of ensuring equitable access to this precious resource. Mokgosi said to date, they have spent close to R300m for water and sanitation

projects in Maquassi Hills and the villages of Segakwaneng, Manamakgotheng, Pahalane, Makoshong in Moretele Local Municipality as well as Kokomeng, Khudutlou, Molelema and Longaneng in the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM).

“An additional R1.9 billion has been set aside for ongoing bulk water supply projects in Madibeng, Ratlou, Mahikeng and Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipalities,” he said.

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North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi’s alleged abhorrence towards ‘weak’ North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi deepens divisions

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North West MEC for Education and ANC deputy provincial secretary, Viol Motsumi

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 February 2026- The dissections within the ANC in North West continue to deepen. This came to the bow on Thursday morning during State of the Province (SOPA) in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) in Mahikeng.

The North West MEC for Education and ANC deputy provincial secretary, Viola Motsumi was allegedly caught with her ‘pants’ down during the proceedings. Motsumi was allegedly heard in a conversation with the Deputy Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Collen Maine on how much detestation she has towards the North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, who is also the ANC deputy provincial chairperson.

In the video that only depicts Motsumi’s alleged voice said: “Where were you when s/he abused me and now you come and talk about unity? I am saying over my dead body. Where were you when hitmen were looking for me and appeared in the newspapers?

“Where were you when I was written letters? Now, you see that your project is not working, you coming with unity issue? I told her/him that s/he must never ever bring that topic up because it makes me emotional. You should never ever open that discussion again and you can go and tell Lazzy that I hate him.”

“Why didn’t you tell him about unity when he removed Collen from the list?”

According to our highly-placed source within the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), after realising that her microphone was on all along and she might have been recorded, Motsumi allegedly approached NWPL Secretary, advocate Lutendo Netshitumbu and asked him to remove the live streaming video on the North West Provincial Legislature’s official Facebook Page.

They allegedly went to the Communications and Technical teams of the North West Provincial Legislature’s cubicle, where the proceedings were live streamed and instructed the service provider to delete the purported video and restart recording the proceedings again. The service provider allegedly did not delete the video.

However, the video was finally deleted after going back and forth. The edited video of the SOPA proceedings was only uploaded again on the North West Provincial Legislature’s official Facebook Page on Friday around 1pm without the alleged part, where Motsumi was heard declaring her hatred towards Mokgosi.      

The Secretary at the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL), Adv Lutendo Netshitumbu denied any wrongdoings. Netshitumbu said the North West Provincial Legislature’s responsibility in respect of SOPA is to facilitate the sitting of the House and to ensure that proceedings are broadcast live to guarantee public access and transparency.

“I categorically denies any allegation that I instructed the Communications or Technical teams to delete or edit the live-streamed video. The Legislature does not edit official House proceedings.

“Any technical interruption, temporary removal, or platform-related issue concerning the live stream does not equate to manipulation of content. The official recording of the proceedings remains an authentic reflection of the sitting as it unfolded,” he said.

Netshitumbu further said allegations relating to the conduct, statements, or political positions of individuals mentioned in the enquiry do not fall within the mandate of the Legislature to pronounce upon and should be referred to the relevant individuals or organisations. He added that the NWPL remains committed to transparency, institutional integrity and the faithful broadcasting of its proceedings.

Motsumi refused to comment on the matter.

“But you are out of order Baks! No comment! As a brother and sister, you should understand better,” she said.

The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi spokesperson, Sello Tatai said: “The Premier is not aware of the purported video and shall not comment on its contents.”

The ANC provincial spokesperson, Tumelo Maruping has not responded to these allegations yet.

Meanwhile, one of the ANC members in the province alleged the North West MECs who are aligned to the ANC provincial chairperson, Nono Maloyi slate that is affectionately known as N12, continues to defy Mokgosi’s instructions and regard him as weak.  

“You will remember that Mokgosi is contesting for the ANC provincial chairperson position and his campaign is gaining momentum. So, those who are aligned to the Maloyi slate, will do anything to derail him.  

“There is a belief that Mokgosi is afraid to recall them because they are aligned with Maloyi. So, indeed ANC in North West continues to grapple with deep-seated internal divisions, which are actively shaping the landscape ahead of the much-anticipated ANC Provincial Elective Conference.”

The source said the party remains plagued by factional battles, with significant power struggles between key leaders. The source said there is a coup against Mokgosi hence the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee in the North West Provincial Legislature.

“In 2024, Mokgosi appointed Ndlela Kunene as the acting Head of Department (HOD) for Education, but Motsumi defied his orders and preferred to retain Maropene Seshibe in the position. This created dual acting appointments for the same role.

“Again, a few weeks ago, there was another power struggle between Mokgosi and North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng over the suspension of the Head of Department, Dr Hans Kekana.”

The source said a few months ago, the North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has also dragged Mokgosi to court over the control of R798m North West Development Corporation (NWDC) project.

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