Category Archives: NEWS

SANCO calls for an extensive SIU investigation into Matlosana Local Municipality

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

The South African National Civic Organization (SANCO) in the North West said it is deeply disappointed by yet another revelation of corruption within the Matlosana Local Municipality. SANCO provincial spokesperson, Mzukisi Jam said it is really disturbing to witness the level of corruption within both the administrative and political offices of this municipality.

Jam further said nonetheless, they commend the media and law enforcement agencies for their unwavering commitment to uncovering corruption and urge them to persist in their efforts. He added that a recent report by Sunday Independent online news has exposed yet another corruption scandal involving the Whip of the Council, Khaya Ndincede and again the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Matlosana Municipality, Mercy Phetla. 

“The two stand accused of misusing a municipal vehicle and credit card/petrol card for personal gain at the expense of taxpayers. It is unspeakable to see how they shamelessly abused state resources while holding higher positions and being well compensated.

“At least all the evidence on the misuse of the vehicle and petrol card is detailed in the letter written by the Municipal Fleet Maintenance Unit Superintendent, Raymond Holele to his superiors, dated

15 November 2023. 

“Sunday Independent has also published parts of the evidence from the municipal fleet records, WhatsApp messages, and images showing the car at some point being damaged and the extent to which it was misused with the petrol card. With all this evidence, we envisage seeing these corrupt officials being convicted, thereby sending a strong message that corruption will never be tolerated in government,” said Jam. 

He said SANCO also calls for all the officials with evidence to come forward and testify to strengthen the state case against these corrupt individuals. Jam said the municipality’s reaction to this issue and towards accountability is also deeply concerning. 

“It is unacceptable that taxpayer funds intended for service delivery are being squandered for personal gain, with no accountability to the public as no one in the municipality has responded to these allegations. 

“According to the Sunday Independent, despite repeated attempts to seek clarification, neither Ndincede nor Phetla has provided any explanation for their actions. Apparently, even the Matlosana Local Municipality spokesperson, Ntswaki Makgetha, did not respond to questions despite promises to do so,” he said.

Jam said as SANCO, they are profoundly disturbed by the level of corruption within the municipality. He said it appears that those entrusted with serving the community have abandoned their responsibilities and focusing their efforts on their personal enrichment.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to monitoring and condemning corruption. We call for an extensive SIU investigation into the Matlosana Local Municipality and for the removal of all corrupt individuals from government institutions. 

“These corrupt individuals are continuing to tarnish the name and integrity of the ANC, and we urge for decisive action to be taken to restore trust in our government. The fight against corruption must be intensified and we stand ready as SANCO to collaborate with the ANC and other stakeholders to rid our provincial government of corruption for the betterment of our communities,” he said.

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Ramaphosa to sign NHI Bill into law 

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Picture: RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Republic of South Africa (RSA) President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, publicly sign into law the controversial National Health Insurance Bill (NHI), which directs the transformation of South Africa’s health care system to achieve universal coverage for health services. 

The national Department of Health said, through this, the system will overcome critical socio-economic imbalances and inequities of the past. The signing ceremony will take place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, at 2pm. 

According to the department’s website, https://www.health.gov.za/nhi/, since the dawn of democracy, the health sector has undergone many reforms to try and create a more equitable, accessible and affordable healthcare system that can service all South Africans. It says, however, these past reforms have been too little and too slow.

“Everyone deserves equal access to quality and affordable healthcare. Fundamental changes need to occur to create a strengthened healthcare system. The problem is that South Africa’s health system is very complicated and expensive. 

“The health outcomes do not match the resources invested in the system. Both the public and private sector have challenges that make the healthcare delivery system unsustainable to service all South Africans,”

The department says it plans to strengthen the health system. It says South Africa is a member of the United Nations community and has committed to implement universal health coverage for all. 

“The desired outcome is that all people have access to the full range of quality health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship. The NHI is South Africa’s strategy to achieve universal health coverage. 

“The NHI is a fund from which the government will buy healthcare services for South Africans from healthcare providers both in the public and private sector. The NHI will make healthcare more affordable, by reducing the cost of healthcare for all,” the website says. 

The department says NHI acts like a medical aid for everyone, and all of them will contribute to this fund through taxes and special contributions in line with what we can afford. It says the insurance will ensure that everyone is entitled to free healthcare when they need it. 

“There will be no fees charged at the facility because the fund will cover the costs of care. The NHI is a journey to transform South Africa’s health sector. It will take many years to be fully realised and requires input from all sectors to ensure no one is left behind. 

“For the NHI Fund to be effective, the entire health system will undergo reform for many years to come. These reforms include partnerships between the private and public sectors, making both sectors more effective and more efficient, and implementing robust governance structures,” says the website.

The department says the passing of the NHI Bill in June 2023 by the National Assembly was a key milestone that paves the way for ensuring better collaboration between our private and public health systems, guaranteeing universal and comprehensive quality health coverage for all.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape Spokesperson on Health and Wellness, Gerrit Pretorius said: “The DA rejects the destructive National Health Insurance Bill. The residents express pressing concerns on the financial and social implications of the Bill’s passage into law.

“Proposed by the ANC at the national level, the NHI Bill would allow the state to take control over virtually all healthcare in South Africa. Under NHI, private healthcare would be all, but outlawed, and medical procedures would be funded by a massive, central, tax-funded pool of money.” 

Pretorius further said the National Treasury has thus far not disclosed how this system of state-funded healthcare will be funded with any degree of viability. He added that, while the goal of universal health coverage is a noble one, this particular Bill will have dire economic consequences for South Africa. 

“With a mounting debt crisis, a stagnant economy and an energy crisis that makes real the threat of total economic collapse. South Africa already cannot meet its financial obligations. 

“The passage of NHI would not only catastrophically exacerbate this, but would also bring millions of patients into an already-overstretched public healthcare system, while simultaneously demanding hundreds of billions of rand more from an overstretched and shrinking tax base,” said Pretorius.

He said these concerns were echoed by hundreds of residents, who made written and oral submissions on the Bill. Pretorius said in addition to economic reasons, many residents felt that NHI would worsen the flight of medical professionals from South Africa to wealthier countries. 

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The Department of Water and Sanitation urges communities to report any water supply interruption  

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

The Department of Water and Sanitation said as the custodian and leader in the water and sanitation sector, it will continue to have a constant engagement with the communities in the North West, through its toll free number. 

The Department of Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa said this will assist them in improving service delivery of water and sanitation in the province. Mavasa said this follows Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu’s pronouncement in January this year to resuscitate the Departmental Call Centres in all provinces. 

“This initiative is a greater collaboration of government, departments, entities, and water service authorities. The agencies within the water sector have inspired teamwork towards a shared goal of ensuring continuous water and sanitation service delivery in the North West. 

“The department’s Call Centre aims to ensure effective monitoring of service delivery in the province, as well as to ensure speedy response to the complaints of members of the community,” he said. 

He further said this is in line with the department’s goals underpinned by the National Development Plan (NDP), which dictates that the state should put people first (Batho Pele) and effectively respond to the needs of the country and its people. Mavasa added that the department encourages communities and the country at large to report water and sanitation challenges to hotline 0800 200 200.

“They should report dry public boreholes, burst pipes or leaking taps, water use registrations and licensing, pollution and dumping of waste in or near water resources, vandalism and theft of infrastructure, leaking sewerage systems and sewer spillages. This includes poor water quality, water reservoir problems and illegal water connections. 

“No water supply and water supply interruptions. The department will continue to decisively intervene and resolve water and sanitation related service challenges as it is mandated by the constitution through the National Water Act 36 of 1998 to promote equitable access to water,” said Mavasa.

He said they are also re-dressing the results of past racial and gender discrimination, promoting the efficient, and to maintain sustainable and beneficial use of water in the public interest.

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LiuGong Green Alliance to bring a lasting solution to water challenges at Moses Kotane Local Municipality 

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Picture: The delegation from China/Supplied 

By STAFF REPORTER 

Water scarcity continues to be a challenge across South Africa. In response to the pressing water crisis facing the country, LiuGong, a global leader in construction machinery since 1958, has launched a transformative initiative, the LiuGong Green Alliance. 

The alliance that was established in 2023, is dedicated to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. It also marks a significant step towards addressing the water scarcity issues in Africa. 

The Moses Kotane Municipality spokesperson, Berlina Lekgethwane said this initiative marks a pivotal moment in the growing relationship between China and South Africa. Lekgethwane said this highlights the commitment to sustainable development and mutual cooperation. 

“The signing ceremony in Langhams, witnessed the donation of the first borehole well to the municipality. This donation marks the beginning of a concerted effort to combat the water crisis affecting communities in the country and showcases the dedication of LiuGong to tackling pressing environmental challenges.

“The borehole well, which is a vital resource amidst South Africa’s water scarcity, symbolizes hope and resilience for the affected regions. So, through the generous contributions from the LiuGong Green Alliance initiative, more borehole wells are planned across Africa,” she said. 

Lekgethwane further said more borehole wells aim to alleviate water shortages and enhance access to clean water for communities across the continent. She added that South Africa, like many parts of Africa, is grappling with severe water shortages, exacerbated by climate change and infrastructure deterioration. 

“The Moses Kotane Local Municipality has been particularly affected by this crisis, with communities facing daily struggles to access clean and safe water. LiuGong’s pledge goes beyond mere charity. It embodies a sustainable business model aimed at creating lasting change. 

“The funds for this initiative stem from the profits generated by Africa’s first electric loader machine, the 856HE. This innovative and environmentally friendly machinery not only enhances productivity on construction sites, but also serves as a catalyst for positive social and environmental change,” said Lekgethwane.

She said the donation is just the beginning as LiuGong remains steadfast in its mission to build more borehole wells across Africa. According to Lekgethwane, LiuGong will utilise the profits from the 856HE to fund similar initiatives in other water-stressed regions. 

“Through the LiuGong Green Alliance, the company seeks to empower communities, promote sustainable development, and leave a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship.

“In addition to the borehole well donation, two significant agreements were signed during the ceremony. The first agreement between Moses Kotane Municipality and the LiuGong Green Alliance initiative was to solidify the commitment to collaborate on future projects aimed at sustainable development and environmental conservation,” she said.

Lekgethwane said the second agreement was signed between LiuGong, M-Civils and BurGers Equipment to highlight the collaborative efforts towards advancing sustainable infrastructure development in the region. She said the partnership underscores the shared vision of fostering the economy of South Africa China Economic and Trade Association, and expressed his optimism about the partnership. 

“These agreements mark a new chapter in our cooperation, laying the foundation for transformative projects that will benefit communities and drive socio-economic progress,” said Lekgethwane. 

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Deputy Minister of Police visits Schweizer Reneke 

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Picture: Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale/Google

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale and the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, will on Tuesday, be joined by both the national and provincial management of the South African Police Service (SAPS), to interact with community members regarding their concerns about crime and policing needs.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “The objective of the Ministerial Imbizo is to strengthen relations between the community and police. 

“The community will be given a platform to discuss and engage with the SAPS on solutions and interventions to address their crime-related concerns.”

The Imbizo will be held at Ipelegeng Multi-Purpose Centre in Schweizer-Reneke at 10am. 

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A R56m police vehicle branding corruption case postponed 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

A fraud and corruption case against Keshene Chetty and 40 of his co-accused, has been postponed by the Pretoria High Court to 27 May 2024, for some of the accused to apply for legal representation from Legal Aid South Africa. 

The National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate spokesperson, Henry Mamothame said they were arrested after a tender fraud, wherein procurement documents were allegedly tampered with in a tender meant for the branding of police vehicles. 

Mamothame said falsified quotations were allegedly provided to the South African Police Service (SAPS). He further said the accused are facing 456 charges that include racketeering, fraud, corruption, theft, forgery and money laundering. 

“Amongst the accused, are police officials who allegedly participated in the fraudulent processing of this tender, and 22 companies and their directors. 

“The former head of SAPS Supply Chain Management, Lieutenant General Ramahlapi Mokwena and three brigadiers are also part of the accused in this matter,” he said.

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The Joint Committee happy with its performance during 6th administration

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By OBAKENG MAJE

The Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests is confident that during the 6th term of Parliament it has carried through the promise made on 11 September 2019, to process all cases before it with speed, impartiality and in accordance with the Code of Ethical Conduct and Disclosure of Members’ Interests for Assembly and Permanent Council Members.  

The Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests was established in terms of Joint Rule 121 of the Joint Rules of Parliament, primarily to implement the code, to develop standards of ethical conduct for Assembly and Council Members and to perform other functions and exercise other powers reasonably assigned to the committee by both houses.  

One of the Co-Chairpersons of Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests, Bekizwe Nkosi said, in line with this promise to speedily process complaints, the Office of the Registrar of Member’s Interests, received 41 complaints of alleged breaches of the code over the term of the 6th Parliament. 

Nkosi said of the 41 complaints, the committee finalised 35 of them. 

“Six matters were not completed. Of these six, three relate to current Members of Parliament, while three relate to people who are no longer MPs. Essentially, therefore, there are only three active complaints before the joint committee. 

“The 41 complaints do not include alleged breaches of the code in respect of late disclosure of members’ interests, where MPs failed to meet the annual disclosure deadline,” he said.  

Another Co-Chairperson, Lydia Moshodi shared the same sentiments. Moshodi said during this term, the committee also processed cases emanating from the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector including Organs of State. 

She further said the committee meticulously processed and made recommendations to the house, as per the code. Moshodi added that the committee also enhanced its processes to ensure the speedy declaration of interests to enhance accountability. 

“This marks a huge stride forward for the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests under the strategic and operational leadership of the acting Registrar, Adv Anthea Gordon. 

“The time it took to prepare and release the Register of Members’ Interests is now significantly shorter than in previous years, demonstrating the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests’ commitment to ensuring accountability to the electorate,” she said.

Moshodi said this term’s joint committee also reviewed the code and brought it in line with contemporary challenges. She said the review has now set a framework for MPs’ ethical interaction on social media. 

“This has strengthened penalties for breaches of the code and recommended lifestyle audits for risk-based profile lifestyle audits for categories of members, including Presiding Officers, Chairpersons of committees, Chief Whips of all political parties, any member that has been red-flagged by the e-disclosure system, and any other member or category of members, as the committee may identify from time to time,” she said.  

Moshodi said if there is an allegation of fraud, bribery, corruption, or unethical conduct against a MP, they shall also form part of the risk profile for a lifestyle audit. She said the code also entrenches the close working relationship with law enforcement agencies in cases where there is an unexplainable discrepancy with the audit to enable a full-scale lifestyle audit. 

“This evolution of the code takes Parliament a step further in entrenching values of ethical behaviour and accountability.  

“The committee has put in place a solid foundation for the incoming committee and is certain that reforms in place will enhance the credibility of Parliament in delivering its mandate of oversight over the executive,” said Moshodi.

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AD HOC Committee receives public participation report 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Ad Hoc Committee on the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill today received a summary of the public participation report and adopted it. The committee also received responses from the State Security Agency (SSA) on the report and legal advice from the Parliamentary Legal Services on the report and responses from SSA.

The Chairperson of Ad Committee on the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, Kenneth Mmoiemang said the public participation report noted that an overwhelming majority of inputs supported the Bill. Mmoiemang said even where recommendations were made for further improvements, these stakeholders did not reject the Bill on these grounds. 

‘The report also cites the concerns raised during the public participation process. The committee noted SSA’s responses to the public participation report. SSA also noted several of the proposals made and indicated that it will be guided by the committee on these matters. 

“These proposals include the appointment of the Deputy Chairperson of the Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence (JSCI), biannual meetings between the JSCI and the President on intelligence-related matters, the alignment of the JSCI’s annual reporting with parliamentary reporting requirements, as well as the appointment of the Deputy Inspector-General of Intelligence,” he said.

Mmoiemang further said SSA informed the committee that the Bill adopted by the National Assembly provided safeguards to protect constitutionally entrenched rights in respect of bulk interception. He added that SSA informed the committee that it proposes retaining the sections currently in the Bill as approved by the National Assembly in relation to the monitoring of foreign signals/bulk interception.

“SSA does not support the proposal to establish a national security media advisory as it believes the existing laws provide sufficiently for this matter. SSA also believes the powers of the Inspector-General of Intelligence (IGI) should be aligned to the criminal justice system or to those of the accounting officers in case of misconduct.

“SSA also responded on matters of security competency assessments, insufficient measures against fund misuse, insufficient penalty provisions, location of services, whistle-blower protection and the role of the President,” said Mmoiemang.

He said the committee also received legal advice on the public participation report and responses from SSA. Mmoiemang said the legal advice noted the majority of the responses and made a few proposals for the committee’s consideration.

“The legal advisor added proposals on the powers of the IGI, the powers of the Intelligence Coordinator, the establishment of the national security media advisory, security competency tests, and the insufficient measures against fund misuse.

“The committee will now commence with clause-by-clause deliberations on the Bill and consider and adopt the C-list version of the Bill,” he said.

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23 suspects nabbed during Operation Vala Umgodi 

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Picture: Some of the items confiscated by police/Supplied  

By OBAKENG MAJE 

More than 23 suspects have been arrested during the Vala Umgodi operation conducted in Rustenburg and Hartbeespoort Dam between Friday and Saturday. Out of 23 suspects, one was nabbed on Friday afternoon in Rustenburg for possession of explosives. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said other 22 suspects were arrested in Hartbeespoort Dam for Contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002). Mokgwabone said the suspects were foreign nationals from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi.

“During the operations, the team that comprised of various units of the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Brits Immigration Officials, seized items found abandoned such as 3 supersonic generators, 20 generators, 15 extension cords, 11 jack hammers and 16 hammers. 

“Among others were two pressure pumps, 16 phendukas, one phenduka stand, 65 chisels, 2 water pumps, one grinder, 4 grinder blades, 24 spades, 8 pickaxe with handles, 3 knives, 2 gas cylinders, one gas bottle, 28 pieces of steel chains and 1 hacksaw,” he said.   

Mokgwabone further said the suspects are expected to appear in the Rustenburg and Brits Magistrate’s Courts today, for Contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002.

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‘EFF aims to take over North West province’

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Picture: The EFF leader, Julius Malema addressing the crowd/Generic

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said it is adamant that it will take over the North West province after 29 May 2024. This was highlighted by the EFF leader, Julius Malema, who visited the province on Thursday last week. 

Malema was interfacing with the community in Mahikeng as part of his electioneering ahead of the much anticipated General National Elections (GNE), that will take place on 29 May 2024. He said his party will strengthen the government’s ability to deliver on millennium development goals, particularly in ending poverty. 

“Among other things, we will ensure that there is provision of quality healthcare, social security services and the procurement of tenders will be duly awarded. As EFF, we will also ensure that our people get conducive RDP houses, address unemployment, there is water provision, use of state land and build recreational facilities.

“On health matters, we will ensure that all healthcare facilities operate 24-hours. We understand there is inadequacy of health professionals, equipment and medical supplies, as well as medicines. Also, the behaviour of some of the healthcare professionals is appalling,” he said.

Malema further said the situation in the North West is deteriorating as many people continue to live in squalor under the ANC-led government. He added that there is a high rate of unemployment, especially amongst the youth. 

“Young people were supposed to be in various factories, in universities or running their own businesses. However, we all know that job opportunities available are reserved for ANC cronies. People are being employed in corners and honestly, Mahikeng is rotten to the core. Some ANC councillors allegedly demand sex in exchange for jobs.

“There is widespread corruption and the residents should bear the brunt. There is no service delivery and there are no accessible roads in the North West. It is evident because the 4km Mandela Drive road construction project takes years to be completed,” said Malema.

He alleged that the acting North West Premier, Nono Maloyi, left RDP housing projects incomplete all over the province. Malema said Maloyi has allegedly failed dismally to run his portfolio, but some people believe that he could run the whole province. 

“Maloyi does not have capacity. His biggest business that he had ever run, was to operate a shebeen. We cannot have a premier who is a drunkard. We need somebody who will work for the North West province. We want free education for everyone and learners should be taught by qualified educators.

“We should compete with white counterparts and we want all our young people to go to the universities and access free education. We also do not want the NSFAS program and the money needs to be paid directly into the universities’ accounts,” said Malema. 

He said if people vote for EFF, they will ensure that all learners get a free uniform and free education. Malema said prisoners in South Africa get free uniforms and there should be no child who should be denied access based on their parent’s financial backgrounds. 

“We want NSFAS allowance to be paid directly into their accounts. We must take care of our children. In South Africa, if you want a free uniform, one must be a criminal. However, it should be the other way round, because these children choose education over criminality.

“Prisoners are treated well in the South, but under the EFF government, prisoners will only be allocated uniform when they arrive at the correctional services facilities. Whether one serves 25 years or 10 years, it does not matter,” said Malema. 

According to Malema, most people live beyond the poverty line, while prisoners have free food, electricity and there is no load-shedding. He said for 30 years, South Africans have not been given the land back. 

“The white people own 87% of the land even though they make less than 10% of the population. Today, 18.6 million people live in extreme poverty. There are 38.8 million out of 66 million, who live through poverty. 

“What are you going to do about it? We will increase the social grants and ensure that we never allow our children to go through what we went through. This will also assist young girl children to stop sleeping with sugar daddies to fund their lifestyles,” he said.

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