Picture: Former MKP Secretary-General, Floyd Shivambu
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
3 June 2025- The Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) said its president Jacob Zuma, met with the national officials yesterday to reflect on the state of the organisation. Zuma said as part of the deliberations of the national officials, the matter pertaining to the recent trip undertaken by the Secretary General, Floyd Shivambu to Malawi was reflected upon.
He further said after lengthy discussions and considerable inputs from the national officials, it was concluded that the actions by Shivambu were found to be against the spirit and the prescripts of the party constitution. Zuma added that most specifically, Section 3 (j) under “Offences”, which stipulates that the undertaking international trips and participating in activities and programmes that are opposed to the agenda of the MK Party or an allied party, noting that on the 12 March 2025, the Republic of Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate delivered a ruling that granted the South African Republic’s request for the extradition, it is common knowledge that Bishop Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary Bushiri who allegedly skipped bail and are to return to South Africa to stand trial on various charges.
“Based on the deliberations by the national officials, it was reaffirmed that the trip was not an officially sanctioned programme of the organisation or the president, which therefore goes against the constitution of the party.
“The MK Party and its leadership, has been approached by members of various sectors of civil society and has taken due consideration of the gravity of this matter. Due to the serious nature of this matter and its implications for the party, its image, values and principles, the president and the national officials were left with no other option, but to act swiftly in addressing this matter,” he said.
Zuma said consequently, as a responsible organisation accountable to its electorate and the broader society, the national officials have come to a decision to redeploy Shivambu to the National Assembly. He said they believe that his redeployment will strengthen the MK
Party caucus as the official opposition, as Shivambu carries a wealth of experience as a former Member of Parliament.
“We would like to thank and acknowledge Shivambu’s contribution as both the national organiser and Secretary General of the MK Party and the role he has played in contributing to the advancement of the organisation.
“His invaluable skills and experience as a politician will continue to benefit the MK Party in the new role to which he will be redeployed. The national officials have had discussions with Shivambu pertaining to his deployment, and he has duly accepted,” said Zuma.
Picture: The NWU delegates duirng a sod-turning event at Potchefstroom campus/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
3 June 2025- The North West University (NWU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bismark Tyobeka said they have turned the first sod at the Potchefstroom Campus construction site of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine. Tyobeka said this ceremonial gesture marked the official commencement of construction of South Africa’s 11th medical school, with the first cohort of students expected to enrol in 2028.
He further said with this milestone, the NWU sets a firm course towards addressing the critical shortage of medical practitioners in the North West and across the country. Tyobeka added that it also heralds the start of a journey that will see the university navigate new frontiers in medical education.
“This ceremony marks the symbolic start of construction and the laying of the cornerstone for a bold vision, one that aims to transform lives, uplift communities, and reshape the healthcare landscape of our nation.
“It represents the formal launch of a scholarly pursuit of the highest order: the establishment of a premier centre for medical education, research, and professional training,” he said.
Tyobeka said the state-of-the-art facility scheduled for completion in 2027, will serve as a flagship academic and intellectual hub at the university. He said it will house the foundational years of medical training, eventually expanding to include clinical platforms at Tshepong and Klerksdorp hospitals.
“It is here. We will shape the minds and characters of future physicians and individuals, who will shoulder profound responsibilities with dignity, scientific excellence and an unwavering commitment to service.
“We also express gratitude to the university’s government partners, regulatory bodies, the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust, and local community leadership, whose guidance, support, and faith in the NWU’s vision have been pivotal,” said Tyobeka.
He said this is not merely an infrastructure project. According to Tyobeka, tt is a promise to future generations, a commitment to educate, to heal, and to uplift.
“As we break ground today, let us do so with purpose. And let us always serve with compassion. Thank you and may the Almighty bless this endeavour and all who contribute to it,” he said.
3 June 2025 – Coach Vela Khumalo said he was happy to get his first training session with his players under his belt in Bloemfontein on Monday as South Africa continues preparations ahead of the 2025 COSAFA Cup. South Africa opened their COSAFA Cup account against Mozambique in their first Group A match at the Free State Stadium on 4 June 2025.
Khumalo’s charges have been pitted against Mauritius, Zimbabwe and Mozambique in the group. Fresh from the recent U17 Africa Cup of Nations, where he secured South Africa’s qualification to the FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile, Khumalo is planning to mount a strong challenge for the regional title.
“I think we are happy that everyone is here, and it was our first session. Remember, with just two days before our (first) match, tomorrow will be the walk through, so we are happy with the number of players who showed up on our first training session.
“We are playing against Mozambique, and we don’t know much about them, but it’s all about how we want to express ourselves when playing at home. We need to show that we are playing at home, we promise to play good football, but most importantly, we need to win the game,” he said.
Khumalo further said they want to see themselves going into the semi-finals. He added that is the most important thing.
“I am very happy with the squad and the players he has with him in camp have shown great determination to succeed. I’m happy with the players because they look sharp.
“I was not expecting them to look as sharp as they do as they have been in recess for two weeks. But we are in good shape and in a good space as we look forward to the next session,” said Khumalo.
Mduduzi Shabalala and Darren Johnson, who replaced Bruce Bvuma, were the latest players to join the camp on Monday.
3 June 2025- The police in Mothibistad are investigating a murder case. This comes after an advocate Katlego Sandford Moribe (38) was shot dead in a hail of bullets at Seoding Block A, House No 12 at Assegaai Hostel in Kuruman on Sunday evening.
It is alleged that Moribe was in the company of Keorapetse Moruakgomo when he came under fire. According to Moruakgomo, he was allegedly driving Moribe’s vehicle.
It is alleged that Moribe was shot nine times, whilst opening the gate.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said no one has been arrested thus far and anyone who might have information that can aid the police in the investigation and apprehension of the suspect(s). Shemane said they can contact Mothibistad Detective Commander, Captain Sethunya Letshwiti on 082 374 0392 or call the SAPS crime stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS.
“All information received will be treated confidentially,” he said.
Meanwhile, many people described a Vryburg-born attorney as a conman, who allegedly defrauded Road Accident Fund (RAF) money from his clients. They also alleged that Moribe was struck off the roll due to misconduct and unethical behaviour.
Legal initiation schools have been warned that their registration does not exempt them from accountability and that any establishment that breaks the law will be dealt with accordingly.
“Any school that contravenes the law, disregards safety regulations or endangers lives will be closed without hesitation. The law is unequivocal and applies to all,” said Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa.
Hlabisa was speaking at the official launch of the 2025 winter customary initiation season at the weekend, where he urged stakeholders to collaborate to ensure a safe, dignified, and culturally respectful initiation period.
This year’s season was launched under the theme: “Mabaye Bephila, Babuye Bephila”, a call for the safety and well-being of all initiates.
The Minister urged parents, traditional leaders and community members to stay vigilant and report any signs of abuse, misconduct, or non-compliance.
He stressed the importance of working closely with the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committees to ensure that the initiation season is grounded in legality and respect for life.
The launch, held in Bloemfontein in the Free State, underscored a collective duty to safeguard the lives and dignity of all initiates throughout the season.
This year’s campaign addresses the 2024 season, during which 94 young lives were lost and 11 individuals suffered amputations due to unsafe initiation practices, particularly prevalent in the Eastern Cape and Free State.
Hlabisa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforce the Customary Initiation Act of 2021, which creates a comprehensive legal framework designed to protect initiates and uphold the cultural integrity of the practice.
The Minister outlined the strategic measures for the initiation season in 2025.
These measures include mandatory registration and verification of initiation schools, comprehensive medical screening for all initiates, thorough training and vetting of traditional surgeons and caregivers, the establishment of monitoring units and emergency response services, and strict enforcement of health protocols to reduce risks such as dehydration and hypothermia.
“Minister Hlabisa stated that CoGTA will work in close collaboration with various government departments to ensure a smooth and well-managed initiation season,” a statement issued by the department said.
The Minister emphasised that these efforts would enhance effective service delivery and boost community engagement during this critical period.
He outlined the specific roles and contributions of key government departments to ensure the safe and successful conduct of the season.
The Department of Health will provide clinical support and conduct medical assessments, while the Department of Basic Education will monitor student participation and assist with family engagement.
Meanwhile, the South African Police Service (SAPS) will enforce compliance by shutting down illegal initiation schools, and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will take legal action where violations occur.
The provincial departments of CoGTA will facilitate coordination, oversight, and sustained community involvement.
Meanwhile, the Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Olorato Mongale, who was tragically kidnapped and killed last week in Gauteng. He called for decisive actions to prevent similar tragedies in the future. – SAnews.gov.za
Picture: The Consulate General of Republic of Namibia, Elizabeth Theron and Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
2 June 2025- The Consulate General of the Republic of Namibia, Elizabeth Theron paid the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola a courtesy visit today to strengthen relations between the two countries, as Namibia borders and the Northern Cape. Theron, accompanied by her Deputy, Me Saima Sackria, had discussions with Otola and her management.
In her opening remarks, Theron indicated that since her appointment on 1 September 2024, she deemed it appropriate to engage and meet with the SAPS management of the province. She highlighted and emphasized that there is a need to consult and address certain issues involving Namibian nationals.
“There is a need for the Department of Home Affairs of both countries to meet and discuss the issues surrounding passports and to check the status of citizenship.
“There are incidents, especially in Cape Town, where syndicates are operating providing false passports to Namibians. There is also a new trend in Namibia, where children and families are being murdered,” said Theron.
The Namibian Consulate General said by sharing intelligence, best practices, and resources, they can bolster their efforts to ensure the safety and security of their communities. Theron said the meeting also presented an invaluable opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relations between South Africa and Namibia, fostering a partnership built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peace and stability.
Meanwhile, the Otola was accompanied by the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Corporate Services, Major General, Dr Thabo Mphuthi, District Commissioner for Frances Baard, Major General Charlotte Makgari and Provincial Heads for Corporate Communication and Liaison, Detectives, Operational Response Services and the Operational Command Centre. Otola in her remarks cited that there are no serious issues with the Namibian nationals in the province.
“Majority are usually in the Namakwa region. I am concerned about the number of drowning along the rivers and the sea bordering the province. The primary focus will be on addressing the pressing issues of transnational crime that affect both countries.
“Through open discussions and cooperation and implementation, we aim to enhance our strategies in combating all illicit activities,” she said.
Picture: A sangoma arrested for premeditated murder/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
2 June 2025- A Lesotho national Sangoma, Sebokoana Khounyana (50), briefly appeared at the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on charges of premeditated murder and human trafficking of Kutlwano Shalaba (2). A charge of premeditated murder was added against the mother Kuneuwe Portia Shalaba (32), who was previously facing charges of human trafficking, conspiracy to commit robbery and making a false statement to the police.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 10 November 2024, the mother of the child took the child to the sangoma and requested him to kill her child because she was not happy with the gender of the baby. Mahanjana said the mother was tired of hiding the gender of the baby from her family and that in fact, the child was a girl.
“The mother then allegedly fed the baby poison and after the baby died it is alleged that the two took the child and buried her body in a shallow grave in Waterpan. After investigations by the police, the sangoma was arrested on 29 May 2025 and he subsequently made a confession and pointed out to the police about where the body of the child was buried.
“In court, the matter was postponed to 5 June 2025, for legal representation for the sangoma. The state intends to oppose his release on bail. The court previously denied the mother’s release on bail,” she said.
Picture: Illegal mining gang leader, James Neo “Tiger” Tshoaeli
By REGINALD KANYANE
2 June 2025- Four policemen who allegedly aided and abetted the escape of a detainee briefly appeared in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court. The accused, Jack Motlhabya (37), Menzi Shabalala (38), Ntuthuko Dladla (40) and Samkelo Mbotho (38), were arrested in January 2025, following allegations that they assisted a detainee, James Neo Tshoaeli, a Lesotho national known as Tiger in escaping during a Vala Umgodi operation in Stilfontein.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said the accused are facing charges of defeating the ends of justice and aiding and abetting the escape of a detainee. Gunya said according to evidence presented in court on 15 January 2025, several illegal miners were rescued and brought to the surface from a mine shaft in Stilfontein.
“They were arrested by SAPS members deployed as part of the Vala Umgodi operations. One individual, known only as “Tiger” was identified by several of the illegal miners as being in charge of operations underground.
“Tiger managed to escape on the same day. An investigation was launched by the Anti-Corruption Unit, leading to the arrest of the four SAPS officials. The accused were granted bail of R1 000 each during their first court appearance,” he said.
Gunya further said the matter has been postponed to 8 July 2025, for further investigation. He added that their bail has been extended until their next appearance.
Picture: Bopaganang Secondary School principal, Boitumelo Cynthia Gopane
By OBAKENG MAJE
2 June 2025- A corruption case against Bopaganang Secondary School principal, Boitumelo Cynthia Gopane (56) in Vryburg, has been postponed to 9 June 2025. Gopane was arrested by the members of the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation on 30 May 2025, for alleged corruption.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula said Gopane’s arrest follows an investigation into allegations of soliciting gratification from a complainant in exchange for contract teacher post. Mathebula said it is alleged that in June 2024, the suspect promised the complainant a contract teaching post on condition that the complainant pays her R30 000.
“The complainant allegedly paid the suspect R25 000 and another R5 500 at a later stage. The complainant was subsequently hired. Following an investigation, the suspect was apprehended and charged with two counts of corruption.
“She briefly appeared in the Vryburg Magistrate’s Court on 2 June 2025. Gopane made an urgent bail application in the North West High Court on 1 June 2025. She was subsequently released on R2000 bail and her matter was postponed to 9 June 2025,” he said.
2 June 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said today marks the ‘first day at school’ for about 200 000 young people at over 20 000 schools nationwide. Ramaphosa said this time, however, they are not arriving at school as learners, but as working adults.
He further said they are participants in the 5th phase of the Basic Education Employment Initiative, the largest youth employment programme in South Africa’s history. Ramaphosa added that after a year’s pause, the initiative returns to townships, villages, inner cities, farms and special needs schools, bringing hope, energy and incomes to places where opportunities are too often out of reach.
“The initiative is a flagship programme of the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, since its inception in 2020, supported the delivery of jobs and livelihood opportunities in our country. The Basic Education Employment Initiative is implemented by the Department of Basic Education and by provincial education departments.
“It is now funded by the UIF Labour Activation Programme and national government. This programme is designed to develop the work skills that employers say they need, such as time management, task management, teamwork, problem solving, IT, admin and much more,” he said.
Ramaphosa said in the process, participants undertake roles aligned to school priorities to ensure these young people add real value, enhancing the learning environment for learners and strengthening learning outcomes. He said the Basic Education Employment Initiative offers opportunities for young people at all skills levels.
“Graduates are prioritised for work in the classroom, where their tasks allow teachers to spend more time on teaching and lesson preparation. Curriculum Assistants support maths, science and technology. Reading Champions promote literacy and a culture of reading. Lab and Workshop Assistants support technical subjects. Others support IT and school administration.
“They also tackle essential maintenance, such as fixing doors, painting peeling walls, maintaining school vegetable gardens and playgrounds. Care and Support Assistants work with School Support Teams to identify and support children at risk. Still others spark life into sports, art and music, activities that inspire learners, uncover their talents and build pride in communities,” said Ramaphosa.
He said, together, these roles provide real work experience to young people and vital support to our education system. Ramaphosa said the best possible advice to the young people starting at schools this week comes from a former participant in the programme.
“In 2023, Sibongile Joni was a Curriculum Assistant at Emsengeni Primary School in the Eastern Cape. She has since been employed in an NGO called Masinyusane. She has this advice for participants now starting in the programme: “Be reliable: your consistency builds trust. Be willing to learn, ask questions, accept feedback and grow daily.
“Take initiative: if something needs to be done, do it without waiting to be told. Treat every task as important, no matter how small, because excellence in the small things builds your reputation. Always be professional: your attitude, respect and conduct matter,” he said.
Ramaphosa urges those employed to build strong relationships with staff and learners. He said people open doors for those they trust and enjoy working with.
“Lastly, make the most of the training offered, they equip you with the skills you’ll need for your next step. She says this journey has taught her that growth doesn’t come overnight. She says: “Start strong. Stay consistent. You’re building your future today.”
“Every participant has their own hopes and dreams for their future beyond this programme. Whether they pursue a career in education, undertake further studies, search for a job or embrace self-employment, they won’t be starting from scratch,” said Ramaphosa.
He said from this programme, they will carry invaluable skills and experience. Ramaphosa said, yet, in a tough labour market, they will each need to tackle their next chapter with creativity and initiative.
“As a society, we cannot leave young people to navigate the transition into work alone. Together, we need to step up to assist them. These young people will leave the school environment having shown up, contributed and made a difference.
“They will have worked in high-pressure environments with limited resources and will understand deadlines and responsibility. To employers, we say: give them their next opportunity, mentor their enthusiasm, help take their potential to the next level,” he said.
Ramaphosa said they also need to reach those young people who want to be entrepreneurs. He said they need to find new ways to support those who want to create their own jobs and local value, to connect them to finance, training, markets and networks.
“Today, we celebrate this cohort of young people beginning meaningful work, many for the first time. But let us also not forget those who applied for these posts but who weren’t selected. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, we have demonstrated the government’s capacity to address the youth unemployment problem.
“Through this programme, we have been able to give young people work experience and a pathway to formal employment or even further education. We do believe that this will have a much longer term benefit for the employability of young people. This is but one initiative that seeks to address the youth unemployment challenge,” said Ramaphosa.
He said they still have much more to do to address the plight of young people. Ramaphosa said these young people are showing them what they are capable of.
“It is up to all of us in society to give them the opportunities they need to thrive,” he said.
The Guardian 