Category Archives: NEWS

Mdluli’s lawyer withdraws from slush fund case

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Picture: Former SAPS Intelligence Boss, Richard Mdluli 

By OBAKENG MAJE

4 November 2024- The Pretoria High Court dismissed Richard Mdluli’s application for a postponement of the trial to await the outcome of his leave to appeal. Mduli’s application for leave to appeal is as a result of the South African Police Service (SAPS) refusing to pay for his legal fees.

The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said his appeal to the SAPS decision was also dismissed by the court. Mamothame further said Mdluli’s attorney subsequently withdrew on record, citing lack of funds by the client.

“The IDAC prosecutor also argued strongly against the postponement. Mdluli, together with the former South African Police Service (SAPS), Supply Chain Manager Heine Barnard and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Solomon Lazarus, are facing charges of corruption, fraud and theft relating to the police’s secret slush fund from the time they were employed by the SAPS in the Crime Intelligence Services, between 2008 and 2012,” he added.  

In dismissing Mdluli’s application, Judge Makamu agreed with IDAC and highlighted that this matter has been on the court roll for a long time and that it prejudices the other two accused, who placed it on record that they are ready to proceed with trial. Makamu indicated that, Mdluli’s leave to appeal has a lot of uncertainties which may require him to approach the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) and the Constitutional Court, should the ruling be not in his favour.

Meanwhile, the matter was postponed until 5 November 2024, for Mdluli to approach Legal Aid South Africa to ascertain if he qualifies for legal assistance.

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‘All children must be allowed a caring, nurturing childhood’

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

4 November 2024- The president of Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa said on Saturday, the country observed National Children’s Day when they take stock of the progress they have made in advancing the rights of South Africa’s children. Ramaphosa said they celebrate this day on the first Saturday of November, which is the month in which the Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted by the United Nations in 1989.

He further said the Convention was the first international treaty ratified by our newly democratic government in 1994 in recognition of the centrality of children’s rights to our national development. Ramphosa added that the Convention requires all countries to advance the social, economic, political and cultural rights of children.

“The Convention asserts that every child has a right to survival, development, protection, participation, identity, health, education, non-discrimination, privacy and freedom of expression. These rights are also aimed at creating a safe and nurturing environment for all children, allowing them to grow and thrive.

“The adoption of the Convention by the democratic South Africa was a critical step towards addressing the legacy of our past. Colonialism and apartheid ruined the prospects of millions of black children, who were the youngest victims of deprivation, discrimination and exclusion,” he said.

Ramaphosa said by the end of apartheid, the mortality rate for black children was six times higher than that of white children. He said these disparities reflected everywhere else, from living conditions and access to basic services, to access to social care and services, to education.

“Since 1994, we have registered considerable gains in giving effect to the provisions of the Convention, which are mirrored in our constitution. Successive democratic administrations have established laws and policies to develop the potential of South Africa’s children.

“To ensure children’s right to survival, we have implemented free primary health care for children under six, free basic services to poor families and child support grants. The school nutrition programme has made a significant difference in improving the educational and health outcomes for millions of children from indigent families,” said Ramaphosa.

He said to advance the right of children to protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation, they have passed laws outlawing child labour, corporal punishment and child marriages. Ramaphosa said they also have a prescribed minimum sentencing regime for cases involving the sexual abuse of children.

“During the sixth democratic administration, we strengthened the legal regime to expand the definition of sexual offences against children, improve our capacity to combat child trafficking, and introduce more stringent conditions for the registration of sex offenders.

“One of the areas in which we have made the most progress in implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is in the right to education. As the UN Children’s Fund has noted: “Since 1994 South Africa has made great strides in realising the right to education, rapidly building an efficient, accessible and quality education system for children and adolescents,” he said.

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Concern over taxi patrollers’ behaviour

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Picture: Taxi patrollers blocking a motorist/Twitter

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

4 November 2024 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport, Donald Selamolela, has called on taxi associations to be vigilant against the conduct of some of their patrollers, who often flood social media platforms. Selamolela said the committee will soon arrange a meeting with the industry on its programme to, among other things, understand this matter.

“There has been too much negativity about operations of the taxi industry nationwide, and with the invention of social media, one can never tell if the videos and voice notes are regurgitated. However, associations should prevail on their members and have a decent and enforceable code of conduct.

“We must all work to improve the taxi industry, where it becomes transport of choice rather than convenience. Some of the transgressions the drivers commit is wholly unnecessary and can frustrate any improvisation in the industry,” he said.

Selamolela further said, this week, a video of an alleged vehicle blocking a private vehicle that allegedly picked up a hitchhiker surfaced. He added that the South African National Taxi Association Council (SANTACO) representative came out to support the patrollers’ conduct and sought to suggest that minibus taxi operators had an exclusive right to pick up people.

“The Department of Transport informed the committee on Tuesday that, it is looking to pilot an electronic payment system in association with the industry. But not only that, the department is looking to review and improve the amount paid to the taxi recapitalisation programme.

“This kind of behaviour, especially if the video on social media is not a dated video, frustrates the work of government and compromises the industry in the eyes of the public. The committee is excited that our government is looking to aid the industry, and therefore, the committee expects the industry to introspect and avoid the proverbial scoring of own goals.

“Public transport practitioners should focus on professionalism, safety and responsible driving. The committee welcomed the successful observation of National Transport Month, which ended on Friday, and called for vigilance amongst all drivers as we head for the festive season,” said Selamolela.

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Sambatha extends best wishes to Taung and Potchefstroom Agricultural students for end-of-year assessments

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Picture: Taung and Potchefstroom Agricultural Colleges students

By REGINALD KANYANE

4 November 2024- The North West MEC for of Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said he extend his well-wishes to all students at Taung and Potchefstroom Agricultural Colleges as they embark on their end-of-year assessments.  Sambatha said as the academic year draws closer, he recognises the dedication and resilience these future agricultural leaders demonstrated throughout the academic year.

He further said their commitment to advancing their knowledge and skills within the sector is pivotal. Sambatha added that as they approach this critical phase of their academic journey, he wants to take a moment to wish them the best.

“Your dedication to agricultural education will pave the way for a brighter future. Know that your hard work and perseverance are the seeds sown for a brighter future in agriculture.

“The department stands behind you. We are confident that your efforts will yield great success. Students at the Potchefstroom campus have already commenced their examinations, while those at Taung began today,” he said.

Sambatha said these assessments are set to continue through mid-November. He said a team of dedicated staff at both campuses has worked diligently to maintain a conducive learning environment, ensuring a seamless examination process with secure venues, comprehensive exam schedules, and robust support services.

“The department encourages communities and parents to rally behind these future agriculturists, providing emotional support and motivation during this critical period. Their success will significantly contribute to the growth and development of the agricultural sector,” said Sambatha.

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Learners to be taught in their native languages   

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By OBAKENG MAJE

4 November 2024- The North West Department of Education will launch a ground-breaking Mother Tongue-Based Bilingual Education (MTbBE) initiative. The department said the launch marks a pivotal step in promoting cultural inclusivity and strengthening foundational learning through the use of mother tongue instruction, which is Setswana starting the Grade 4 learners.

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said the event will feature a keynote address highlighting the vision and goals of MTbBE, set to begin in January 2025 for Grade 4 learners, and panel discussions exploring the benefits and implementation strategies of this transformative approach.

“The MTbBE launch will take place at Seasons Conference Centre in Mahikeng on Tuesday. The proceeding will commence at 9am. The MTbBE program is designed to empower North West learners by connecting their education to their linguistic heritage, fostering inclusivity, and building a bilingual foundation.

“In alignment with South Africa’s National Language Policy Framework, MTbBE also draws inspiration from the African Union’s call to build resilient, inclusive education systems across the continent,” she said.

Motsumi further said she will share a keynote address, while panel discussions are lined up by linguistic experts.

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Nine people accused of murder, attempted murder, kidnapping and arson to apply for bail

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Picture: The torched house of a traditional healer

By OBAKENG MAJE

4 November 2024- Nine suspects who were arrested in Modutung village, near Taung, for various crimes such as kidnapping, attempted murder, murder, arson and malicious damage to property will apply for bail today. Letlhogolo Mothobi (38) and Itumeleng Boikanyo (45), are facing charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and malicious damage to property. Othusitse Oshubile (31), Paul Kwati (43) and Ogopoleng Semau (33), were charged with attempted murder, murder and arson.

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said Thomas Morakanele (29), Tshepo Sekgetho (31) and Lesego Mongale (34), appeared on a charge of arson. Mokgwabone said the police also arrested the 9th suspect, Lebogang Morakabe (44).

“Morakabe is facing charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and malicious damage to property together with Mothobi and Boikanyo. A multi-disciplinary team assembled to investigate criminal activities that engulfed Modutung village in Taung on 20 October 2024.

“The accused persons were arrested for allegedly committing the crimes after a missing girl, Rethabile Molapo’s burnt body was found and retrieved from an unused pit latrine. Following the discovery and the funeral of Molapo, some community members took the law into their own hands,” he said.

Mokgwabone further said among others, they allegedly kidnapped and severely assaulted the traditional healer’ son, Kopano Legodu, set alight the traditional healer, Omphile Mothusiemang-Legodu’s house and ultimately killed her after she managed to get out of the house. He added that goods were looted from a tavern and a tuckshop, which were then set ablaze. 

“The investigations into the matter are underway and the possibility of more arrests cannot be ruled out,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the success and commended the police involved in the investigation, tracing and subsequent arrests of the suspects.

Kwena urged community members to remain calm and work with the police to ensure that all those who perpetrated acts of mob justice and the killing of a young girl are brought to book to face the full might of the law.    

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A trial on murder case against a rapist, Bakang Katong and his co-accused set to start  

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Picture: Some of murder accused persons

By OBAKENG MAJE

4 November 2024- A trial on a murder case against a rapist and alleged murderer, Bakang Katong (32) and his co-accused, Thabang Lenyai (23) and Katlego Mosimege (31), and Phenyo Katong (34), is set to start today at Taung Regional Court. The accused persons were arrested two years ago for allegedly killing Thabiso Mothibedi (35), in cold blood.

This comes after they accused Mothibedi of stealing R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house in Manthe village, near Taung.

The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said the preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Longaneng village in Taung, when the accused fetched and ferried him back to Manthe village.

“Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted. After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to a local clinic by the accused, however, he was declared dead upon arrival.

“The accused were arrested and charged with murder,” he said.

On 1 May 2022, the community members were up in arms and torched three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family.

The trial will commence on 4-5 November 2024.

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Morweng’s engagement with SANSBOC and SANTACO to find solution

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Picture: North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

31 October 2024- North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng met with the department key stakeholders, SANSBOC and SANTACO to address issues that will harmonize the working relationship with the bodies.

The first meeting was with SANSBOC to deal with scholar Transport claims and late payments which has been a thorn that also worried Morweng as the matter can affect learners who rely on the service.

He further resolved that outstanding payments to scholar transport operators should be given priority and those that are claimed are outstanding be brought forward and be dealt with. Morweng added that the second meeting was with SANTACO, which was on commuter transport and the role SANTACO should play in the industry, as well as what is due to them as per agreement.

“We resolved that a meeting that is expected to take place next week on Monday between SANTACO and Commuter Bus companies, the Head of Department (HOD), and other relevant parties, must come up with a workable solution.

“All participants of the two meetings appreciated how we handled their matters and they were grateful about the outcome of the meetings,” he said.

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Motsumi urges parents and communities to support learners during final examinations

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

31 October 2024- In efforts to mobilize parents and communities in supporting learners, particularly during the demanding examination period, the North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, held a crucial engagement session with School Governing Bodies (SGBs) and ward councillors from underperforming schools at Victory Primary School in Mahikeng on 30 October 2024.

The department is making a heartfelt appeal to parents to step forward and support learners by providing vital assistance at school incubation camps, which require additional manpower to operate effectively. Motsumi emphasises that the role of SGBs should extend beyond administrative tasks to focus on enhancing teaching and learning quality.

“When we launched the last push campaign in September, we called on all stakeholders including the parent component to rally behind our candidates during the examination time to acquire the desired results at the end of the year.

“Now, we need to take action on the last push we launched knowing that it takes a village to raise a child. I urge every SGB member to prioritise the learners’ best interests above all else. We need SGBs that are committed to fostering a curriculum that truly supports our learners,” she said.

Motsumi further said the session underscores that many SGBs in underperforming schools dedicate excessive time to administrative responsibilities, often overlooking their critical role in actively managing and monitoring educational quality, which is essential for improving learner outcomes. She added that simultaneously, similar engagement sessions are taking place across all four districts in the province, led by senior officials from the department, to ensure a united effort in addressing educational challenges at all levels.

“The department is encouraged by the commitment of newly-elected SGBs in schools facing performance challenges. Their active involvement will be pivotal in enhancing school operations, addressing community needs, and improving learner success,” said Motsumi.

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Several COSAFA members endorse Motsepe’s re-election as CAF President

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Picture: The CAF president, Dr Patrice Motsepe

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

31 October 2024 – South African Football Association (SAFA) President, Dr Danny Jordaan and several of his counterparts from the COSAFA region have endorsed Dr Patrice Motsepe to be re-elected as Confederation of African Football (CAF) President.

Jordaan welcomed Botswana Football Association, President Oabile Tariq Babitseng, Zambia’s Andrew Kamanga, Eswatini’s Peter Simelane and Malawi’s Fleetwood Haiya to SAFA House in Nasrec on Wednesday and they all said they are backing Motsepe to be appointed for a second term during the CAF elections in March 2025.

Jordaan said while most of the 14 member countries of COSAFA were not present at SAFA House, they are fully behind the re-election of Motsepe and have already confirmed their support.

“I’ve spoken to all of the Presidents in the region and some of them could not be here with us, but they did send messages of support, and we want to explain why we are supporting the name of Motsepe.

“We did so the first time he served a term in 2021 and now he is going for the second term. I think from our perspective, from their own perspective (the Presidents), there’s been significant improvement in CAF not just from a financial point of view because very often you only look at the financial aspect, but also from a football point of view.

“We now have a CAF schools’ competition which starts in COSAFA and of course SAFA are the champions of both schools’ girls and boys. Then there is the Under 20 Championship,” he said.

Jordaan further said football on the continent has grown in leaps and bounds under Motsepe’s watch, with both the women’s and the men’s game continuing to show rapid development. He added that football has really shown exponential growth under the leadership of Motsepe.

“From a CAF perspective, you know that CAF started off with a huge deficit. Andrew Kamanga sitting here next to me is the vice-chair of the CAF Finance Committee. He gave the financial report to the CAF Congress in Addis, Ethiopia, recently, and he can give you details on how that recovery happened.

“But simply to say that the most financially successful Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was the recent one in Côte d’Ivoire (in the beginning of the year) and it was a huge success, in terms of television viewership, in terms of revenue, ticket sales, global reach, all of it was just phenomenal,” said Jordaan.

He said given the background and the achievement over the period, they thought it’s best for them to endorse Motsepe again for a second time.

Meanwhile, the regional Presidents that were present at SAFA House, echoed Jordaan’ sentiments and said, Motsepe came in during a challenging period for CAF in 2021, but he managed to turn things around and the continental body is heading in the right direction.

Kamanga said: “So, the time that Motsepe has been with CAF since 2021, the results are there to show. And for the sake of continuity and believing that we will even do much, much better, we think we need the stability and continuation of leadership. For that reason, we’ve resolved as members of COSAFA to support his candidacy to the next election in March 2025.”

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