By OBAKENG MAJE

The heartfelt condolences messages continue to pour in after the passing of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality’s Chief Whip, Elvis Tladinyane. The Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) chairperson succumbed to a long illness on 9 June 2022.

The ANC in North West described Tladinyane as a unifier and a selfless leader. The ANC Interim Provincial Committee (IPC) spokesperson, Kenny Morolong said the region has lost a humble servant, a seasoned public representative, a disciplined and committed activist.

“Cde. Ma-Elvo, as he was popularly known, distinguished himself as a champion of community development and an agent of progressive change. His activism spans over three decades, having joined the struggle in the late eighties.

“Tladinyane’s political activism is well recorded in the books of our glorious movement, having led the ANC in various capacities including as a branch chairperson from 1993 to 1994 and later serving in the Regional Executive Committee (REC) of the erstwhile Vryburg region,” Morolong said.

He further said Tladinyane was also elected to the position of the Deputy Chairperson of the ANC in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati region back in 2010. Morolong added that Tladinyane also demonstrated his profound understanding of the two-stage theory through his active participation in the South African Communist Party (SACP), which he later led as a District Chairperson of the J Nkosi District, formerly known as Bophirima District in 2008.

“Cde. Elvis’ capacity for inventive thought, political maturity, and passion for service enabled the movement to deploy him into various positions of leadership in government. This included amongst others, his deployment to serve as a Member of Local Government Negotiating Forum between 1994 and 1995, a forum that laid the foundation for South Africa’s local government.

“He became part of the first cohort of municipal councillors in the post-democratic South Africa during the transitional period, serving in the Stellaland Regional Service Council in 1995,” said Morolong.

He said after the first democratic Local Government Elections (LGE), Tladinyane was elected as the mayor of the newly-established Kagisano Local Municipality. Morolong said Tladinyane was later deployed as the executive mayor of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, a position he held between 2011 and 2016.

“Tladinyane was later elected as the Speaker of the same municipality. By the time of his passing, he was the Chief Whip of the ANC in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality.

“His qualities and traits were not only visible in his political life, but were demonstrable in communities through the work he carried out on behalf of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Foundation for which he was the chairperson,” he said.

Morolong said Tladinyane was undoubtedly an accomplished activist, grounded in political and social consciousness. He said Tladinyane’s commitment to the people he served was unparalleled and unwavering.

“We dip our revolutionary black, green, and gold flag in honour of this son of the soil and convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, comrades, and the people of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati. We wish them strength during this difficult period,” concluded Morolong.

Meanwhile, the SACP in North West shared the same sentiments. The SACP provincial spokesperson, Jeffrey Lesie said Tladinyane was recruited into the SACP by the ANC stalwart, the late Kaone Lobelo in the early 1990s.

“His activism within the party made him to earn respect within the SACP and the community at large. He was one of the distinct cadres of the revolution, who sacrificed his entire political life in fighting for the improvement of the lives of our people and reclaiming of the rightful position of the entire movement to our people.

“Tladinyane was one of the first South African generations, who was at the helm of introducing people’s power through local government. He was part of the collective, who went out throughout the district to establish municipal structures such as village level committees (VLC),” Lesie said.

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

A 37-YEAR-OLD man has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by Atamelang Magistrate’s Court for killing his own father. Tshepo Andrew Mmusi initially reported his father, William Mmusi (60) missing on 12 October 2021. 

North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said on 14 October 2021, the accused admitted during an interview with police that he murdered his father and burnt his body. Myburgh said as a result, the body was found at Ramabesa village, near Setlagole.

“The accused was arrested and remained in custody throughout the duration of the court case. Due to excellent investigations by Sgt Mbulelo Victor Isake of the Setlagole Detectives, Mmusi was found guilty of murder,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena welcomed the sentence handed down to Mmusi. Kwena said Mmusi’s sentencing came after he entered into a plea bargain with the state.

“We would like to commend the Investigating Officer and prosecution for a sterling job,” he said.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

Three suspects are set to appear at the Molopo Magistrate’s Court on Monday for stock theft. According to the police, the suspects aged between 25 and 38, were arrested by heft by the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Stabilisation Team members on 10 June 2022 for stock theft.

North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “The trio’s arrest came after the team members responded swiftly upon receiving information about a slaughtered cow in Sesana Section near Makgobistad village, outside Mahikeng.

“Upon questioning the suspects, they could not provide a satisfactory answer regarding the slaughtered cow, which was found in their possession. All three suspects were then arrested and are expected to make their first appearance before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mmabatho on 13 June 2022.”

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the police for a job done well.

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

A 24-YEAR-OLD man is expected to appear at Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday for attempted murder. Mpho William “Seun” Modirapula (24) was arrested in Makolokwe village, Bethanie outside Rustenburg on 5 June 2022.

North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “Modirapula was arrested for the attempted murder of a woman (42) in Lekgalong village, near Marikana. It is alleged that the accused forcefully gained entrance into the woman’s residence in the early hours of Thursday morning of 2 June 2002, then hit her with a spade.

“The severely injured woman managed to fight back and the accused ran away. The incident was ultimately reported to the police leading to the arrest of the accused three days later. He was remanded in custody upon his first court appearance on 7 June 2022.”

Mokgwabone said the preliminary investigation revealed that the accused has two pending rape cases allegedly committed in December 2017 and December 2021 in Mooinooi and Pretoria respectively.

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

The police in Brits have launched a manhunt after a shooting incident that was reported in Oukasie, outside Brits on 8 June 2022. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh alleged that community members were on their way to attend a meeting at Oukasie Community Hall when the shooting took place.

Myburgh said shots were fired and a woman (30) was fatally injured and five more people between the age of 12 and 46 were injured.

“The motive of the shooting is still unknown and no arrests have been made. The members of the community who may have information that can assist in the investigation, are requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Gift Matome on 078 338 2542 or to call the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number: 08600 10111. Alternatively, anonymous tip-offs can be communicated via MySAPS App,” she said.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

The police urge community members in Boitekong near Rustenburg to assist them in locating a missing person. The North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said: “Sonia Juliao Muchanga (32) who is a Mozambican national, was last seen by her brother on 8 April 2022 in New Stand Seraleng, Boitekong.

“Anyone with information on her whereabouts is requested to contact Warrant Officer Richard Mtaladi of Boitekong Detectives on Cell: 079 890 2340.”

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By SAFA

A brave Bafana Bafana lost 1-2 to hosts Morocco in a tough 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Thursday night.

The Moroccans were widely regarded as strong favourites to win the match and some observers expected the north Africans to simply show up to collect the precious points at stake without breaking into a sweat. But Bafana Bafana had other ideas and led the match for the majority of the match before conceding two goals in the second half.

Lyle Foster stunned the home fans into silence when he beat goalkeeper Yassine Bounou with a well-taken low shot in the 7th minute to put the visitors in the lead. Credit to debutant Sphephelo Sithole, who shrugged off the attentions of two advancing Moroccans deep in his own half to deliver an inch-perfect pass that a grateful Foster stuck into the back of the net.

Morocco piled on the pressure as they desperately went in search of an equaliser but whenever they managed to get past the Bafana Bafana rear-guard, they found captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams in an uncompromising mood. Williams made a series of breath-taking saves to deny the Moroccans, ensuring that the visitors were still in the lead at the halftime break.

The Moroccans maintained the tempo after the restart and continued to ask serious questions of Williams and his men in the back. The pressure finally told when Youssef En-Nesyri beat Williams with a header from close range in the 51st minute. It was a tough goal to concede for Bafana Bafana as they had defended gallantly for a long period to keep the home side at bay.

But the North Africans were not done and Ayoub El Kaabi scored the winner in the 87th minute, giving the home side a three-point lead at the summit in Group K.

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By OBAKENG MAJE

A murder case against four men from Manthe village in Taung was postponed until 4 July 2022 by Taung Magistrate’s Court for further investigations. The alleged drug lord Bakang “Mahomed” Katong (31), Thabang Lenyai (23), Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34) and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) were arrested two months ago in connection with the brutal murder of the late Thabiso Mothibedi (35).

It is alleged that Mothibedi stole R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house two days before his ‘untimely’ death.

The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said: “The preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Lenganeng village near Taung, when the suspects fetched and transported him to Manthe village. Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted.

“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic by a group of men and requested nurses to check if he was still alive. However, Mothibedi was certified dead upon arrival.”

One of the community leaders, Ali Sakiele said they are sick and tired of drug lords who sell drugs to young people. Sakiele further said they have attended the court proceedings because they have taken a decision as a community of Manthe that they do not want to see anyone selling drugs anymore in their area.

“We urge the magistrate to deny the alleged perpetrators bail. We came to court to show support and to address our grievances in a coordinated manner. Drugs destroy many lives and livelihoods including dividing families, so as the community, we say #EnoughIsEnough,” he said.

The deceased’ sister, Boingotlo Mothibedi (37) said: “It is difficult to see my brother’s life being cut short by alleged drug lords. Even though Thabiso was not perfect, he was a peaceful person, who loved to engage positively with people. 

“So, what happened to him is inhumane. We call on the justice system to deal harshly with the perpetrators. It is not only Thabiso’s life that has been lost because of drugs, but so many lives of young people are being destroyed in daily basis”

She alleged that the perpetrators used her brother and killed him afterwards.

Meanwhile, three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family were torched by irate community members on 1 May 2022. Another community member, Mothusi Motimeng said: “I blame Baga-Maidi Tribal Authority including incompetent police for all these shenanigans happening in our area.

“Everybody can see what is happening and as community members, we have been complaining about these drug lords, who sell nyaope to our youths. Now, these nyaope addicts broke into our houses, stole properties and sold them, so that they can get money to feed their cravings.”

Motimeng further accused the alleged drug lords of using the deceased for their own benefits and killed him afterwards. He said as a community, they say #EnoughIsEnough because many communities are suffering from the effects of drug addiction and its wide-ranging impact.

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Ka KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Tshega e ne e fapogile metsetelo morago ga gore baagi ba Kolong mo no Taung, ba ntane ka noga e leba-leba. Seno, se tlisitswe ke tlhokego ya metsi go baagi ba ba dulang kwa ko karolong ya thaba.

Go begwa fa setlhotshwana sengwe sa baagi ba kwa thabeng, ba ne ba itelekela kwa karolong e e kwa tlase ya motse, mme ba tsaya dibante tse di pompelang baagi bano metsi. Motsetsi o ne aja ka seatla morago ga gore go runye ntwa e matlho mahibidu magareng ga baagi bano.

Mongwe wa baagi, Phemelo Marake wa tlhalosa: “Tota, matsapa ke tlhokego ya metsi ka gore mo kolong, go na le dikarolwana di le pedi. Jaanong, re itemogetse gore metsi a fitlhelela baagi bangwe, fa ba bagwe a sa ba fitlhelele.

“Jaanong, re ne re ikuela go puso go ka tla ka tharabololo gonne seno se lwantsha baagi. Re kopa puso e re rekele motshini o o pompang metsi, mme o isiwe kwa moditelong o o kwa godimo.”

Marake are, seno se tla thusa thata, mme ebile baagi batla bona metsi botlhe ka gangwe.

Maserame Magare o go begwang fa mabante a pompang metsi a ne a le kwa ga gagwe are, ba na le dingwaga di feta pedi ba itemogela tlhokego ya metsi. Magare a re ba ikuetse kwa pusong go ka tla ka tharabololo, mme yone ene ya itshela moreti o tsididi.

“Re ikuela mo pusong gore e dire ka go akoga, gonne kgang ya metsi ke tlhoba boroko. Go na le motshini o mongwe o o pompang metsi kwa Makwating. Jaanong, ha ele gore puso e ya tlholega go ka baakanya dipeipi tse di tlhatlhosang metsi go ya kwa godimo, e ka nna ya re baakanyetsa motshini,” Magare wa tlhalosa. 

Moagi o mongwe, Lucas Modise le ene o latlhetse la gagwe la motla-pitsong.

“Jaaka re le baagi ka kakaretso, re tsweletse go itemogela tlhokego ya metsi ka ntlheng ya gore maditelo a teng ga sa tlhole a kgona go neelana ka metsi ka tshwanelo, gonne motse o godile.

“Mme tharabololo ke gore puso e dire gore metshini e bereke e le mebedi ka gangwe. Seo, se tlile go dira gore re bone metsi rotlhe, mme se thibele dikgotlhang tse di leng teng mo ma gareng ga baagi,” Modise wa tlhalosa.

Kgabagare, majoro wa sedika sa Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Motseokae “Sense” Maje o ne a kuwa kopano le baagi le go ka tla ka tharabololo. Maje o kaile fa ba setse ba tlhomile setlhopha se se tlileng go dira ditlhotlhomiso tsa go bona gore tlhokego ya metsi e bakiwa ke eng.

“Re kopane le baagi, mme re setse re tlhomile setlhopa se se tlileng go ka samagana le kgang ya tlhokego ya metsi ko Kolong. Fela ga re felele foo, re tlile go dira ditlhotlhomiso tsa go batla bothata jo bo tlholang tlhokego ya metsi ka kwano.  

“Gape, re itemogetse gore baagi ba ba dulang kwa thabeng, kgale ba itemogela tlhokego ya metsi, jaanong go tshwanetse re tle ka tharabololo. Jaaka masepala, re tla lebelela gape le setlamo se re se dirisang gore a sena le bokgoni jwa go ka abela baagi ba rona metsi,” Maje wa tlhalosa.

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By REGINALD KANYANE

Potchefstroom will host the 2022 ABC Motsepe National Playoffs from 14 – 19 June 2022 and the two finalists have the added carrot of gaining promotion to the Glad Africa Championship for the 2022/2023 season. The draw for the round robin fixtures was conducted at SAFA House and will see three groups of stages scheduled for 13 – 16 June 2022 at the North West University in the Potchefstroom campus.

The semi-finals will be played on Friday 17 June 2022 at Olen Park Stadium, with the final to be played at the same venue on 19 June 2022.

The two finalists will gain automatic promotion to the first division of South African football. The champions on the day will walk away with R1 million in prize money, while the runner-up will receive R600 000.

All other participants of the national play-offs will return to their provincial leagues.

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