ncome inequality was “a core challenge” facing South African society and it was important for all income earners to seek a “more equitable and more inclusive” economy where the benefits of economic growth were fairly distributed, Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel said yesterday.

He was responding to a question from Business Report, which asked him if it was not “hypocritical” for ministers, who earned nearly R2 million a year, to call on others to live on less in order to reduce inequality and flatten the Gini coefficient – the measure of income disparity, which in South Africa is reported to be the worst in the world.

Patel said one argument that came up in discussions over salary inequalities was that both public and private sectors needed to attract skills “from a pool that is globally mobile”.

Nevertheless, there was a recognition of “the vast gap” between the best and the lowest paid.

“Whether it is in the mining sector, or agriculture or indeed in the public sector… there is [recognition] of the vast gap between the top and bottom.”

At the time of the launch of the New Growth Path in 2010, Patel argued for an inflation peg on annual salary increases for those earning R540 000 or more a year.

He argued at the time that a modest increase above inflation was in order for employees earning between R3 000 and R20 000 a month.

blOEMFONTEIN – Disturbing details about a plot by four right-wingers to kill President Jacob Zuma and several other top government officials was made public on Tuesday.

Mark Trollip, John Keevy, Johan Prinsloo and Hein Boonzaaier were arrested over the weekend in connection with a plot to kill Zuma and other leaders at the ANC’s 53rd National Conference in Mangaung.

They face charges of treason, after allegedly plotting to overthrow the government and establish an independent Boer nation.

The families of the accused quietly observed court proceedings as evidence against the men was read out to Magistrate Monde Mahlaya.

Details heard in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court included a plan to fire mortar bombs on marquees housing ANC delegates at the party’s Mangaung conference and the execution-style murder of Zuma and some cabinet ministers during a dinner.

The court heard that the men had been plotting the attack since February.

But all the alleged planning was brought to an abrupt halt once the Free State police got wind of it from a tip-off and apprehended the men on Saturday.

Trollip was arrested on the road between Kimberley and Douglas in the Northern Cape, while Keevy was arrested at a guest house in Bloemfontein, Prinsloo in Springs and Boonzaaier in Centurion.

The accused will appear again in court on 8 January.

For more details go to ewn.co.za

Johannesburg – ANC bigwig Jackson Mthembu has lashed out at opposition leader Helen Zille, saying she is jealous of Jacob Zuma’s re-election to the helm of the ruling party.

“Remarks made by… Zille about the re-election of comrade President Jacob Zuma are nothing but political jealousy inspired by malicious desperation to have the same support enjoyed by the ANC in this country,” he said.

“The nature of the remarks… exposes Zille’s personal hatred of the ANC in her clumsy attempt to clamber the media attention given to the ANC conference.”

Her comments attempted to undermine the right and responsibility of ANC members to elect leaders to any positions of the movement, he said.

Earlier, Zille said the ANC’s national conference election results would hasten the “disintegration” and collapse of the ruling party.

“Many ANC members and many more ANC voters are feeling alienated by today’s decision in Mangaung.”

She believed it was a sad day for South Africa because Zuma’s re-election sent out a message that the ANC was a movement that put “powerful people” above the law.

She was referring to Zuma’s previous legal battle against corruption allegations, resulting from the fraud conviction of his former financial advisor Schabir Shaik.

In April 2009, the National Prosecuting Authority dropped the charges against Zuma, just months before he was elected into the country’s top post.

Zille said Zuma’s re-election also sent a message that “it is acceptable to use positions in government for personal enrichment, and not for public service”.

She was referring to a multi-million rand upgrade at Zuma’s Nkandla home.

The Western Cape premier stressed that Zuma’s lack of leadership on major policy questions would continue “as will the corruption and abuse of public resources that has so far characterised his time in office”.

Mthembu hit back, saying citizens should regard her remarks as acts of political despondency “with no political content.”

“Sadly, her statement is anchored on abundant false and wrong allegations against the president, the ANC and government,” he said.

“From the conference, the ANC will implement resolutions to help us attend to the all the challenges faced by the organisation and the country.”

Jackson said the depth of engagement in the party’s commissions would produce political thinking that would “pace and shape” the country.

“We don’t worry ourselves with whatever the DA and Helen say – we are more concerned about improving our performance, attending to challenges contesting our ability to deliver and lead society.

“While she takes a political tarry of jealous proportions, the ANC continues with the business of (the) conference, as matters being discussed are central in building better communities.” – Sapah

By Obakeng Maje

The Malawi National Team has arrived in Durban in preparation for the international friendly match against South Africa on Saturday, 22 December 2012 at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The match is scheduled to kick-off at 17h00.

Bafana Bafana are scheduled to land in Durban on Thursday morning.

The Malawians arrived with a 20-man squad, which boasts players like Robert Ng’ambi, Josephy Kamwendo, Atusaye Nyondo and Chiukepo Msowoya who are household names in South African soccer.

They held their first training session at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Clermont and will have more training sessions throughout the week.

Malawi are ranked 101 in the FIFA rankings and 84 by CAF and are coached by Kinnah Phiri and assisted by Young Chimodzi.

Meanwhile tickets for this international friendly are selling at Computicket, Shoprite and Shoprite Checkers countrywide and fans are advised to purchase their tickets urgently.

They cost R100 for the West and East lower stands, while the North and South upper and lower stands are available at R50 each.

Malawi squad to face Bafana Bafana:

1. Simplex Nthala

2. Charles Swini

3. Limbikani Mzava

4. Moses Chavula

5. Harry Nyirenda

6. Foster Namwera

7. James Sangala

8. Steve Chagoma

9. Josephy Kamwendo

10. Chimango Kayira

11. Robert Ng’ambi

12. Dave Banda

13. Frank Banda

14. Micium Mhone

15. Atusaye Nyondo

16. Gabadinho Mhango

17. Zico Mkanda

18. Chiukepo Msowoya

19. Phillip Masiye

20. John Lanjesi

Technical Team1. Kinnah Phiri                         – Head Coach

2. Young Chimodzi                  – Assistant Coach

By Obakeng Maje

Taung-One of the “biggest bang” festivals in the country will be hosted in Taung on the 28 December at Taung Sports-ground.

Dj Nation Annual Bash has been growing in bounds and leaps over the years.

The event is famous for attracting huge crowds.

We have seen world’s top Djs gracing the event and helped transform the event into the biggest party Taung have ever seen.

“28 December have made for a pretty amazing atmosphere and a night the gig-goers will never forget” Nation Dj said.

“The event has more than five years in existence and we bring lots and lots of stars in entertainment industry” Nation said.

Taung village is one of remoted areas in the North West province and falls under Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District.

The Dj Nation Annual Bash is the only main event that keeps party-goers on their toes in the area during festive season.

Born and bred in Nhole village,Taung Blondie “Dj Nation” Mokgwabone was inspired by some of the best Djs in the world.

“I was inspired by some of the best Djs on different radio stations. I saw it fit to embark on this career” He smiles.

“I would like to applaud Taung residents and those who come so far to show their support” Nation said.

Dj Nation…as Mokgwabone is affectionately known to his masses grew up in the area and knows exactly how it feels to thrive for success despite some challenges.

“I came across trials and tribulations of life and I never burged” he adds.

“It is not that easy in the entertainment industry as there are some challenges,but if you bélieve in something and with dedication,discipline and determination saw me through” he outlines.

Nation said by bringing powerhouses Djs and musicians alike believes that will inspire the youths of Taung.

He also put some raw talents in the line-ups.

The likes of Monique Binghams,Ralf Gum,Dj christos,Black Coffe,Glen Lewis,Big Nuz,HHP,Vini Da Vinci and the list is endless will come to the fore.

The tickets are now available at Computicket or at any Shoprites for R120 and R140 at the gate.

History

Taung “The Place of the Lion” named after Tau, chief of the Bataung people, who made his headquarters here during the 18th century

Taung – the “place of the lion” made world headlines when Australian anthropologist Professor Raymond Dart made a startling find here in 1924. The little Taung skull, which he classified as Australopithecus africanus, belongs to one of the earliest hominids that lived in southern Africa some 2.5 million years ago.

Attractions

Taung Skull Heritage Site

A monument to the discovery of the Taung skull has been erected at this historic site.

Blue Pools

A popular picnic site at the Buxton quarry at the Taung Heritage Site. In a picturesque valley with caves, streams and rock pools which lies close to the site where the skull was discovered. Barbecue facilities, set alongside a pristine spring winding through an ancient limestone valley.

Boipelo Game Reserve

Boipelo is a small reserve forming part of the Tusk Hotel complex, consisting of 150 hectare of bushveld. This bushveld reserve supports seven different species of wildlife and more than 100 bird species. Visitors may enjoy game viewing either on mountain bikes (provided by the hotel), or along hiking trails of varying length.

Dinkwaneng

Some excellent examples of San Bushman engravings can be viewed at the Dinkwaneng site situated approximately 20km from the centre of Taung, near the Manthe village.

Taung Dam

A perfect picnic spot, 17km out of town on the Kolong River.

Mmabana Cultural Centre

A modern social and educational centre offering locally produced arts and crafts. A short distance east of the village.

Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews

result: Chiefs 2-0 AmaZulu

Date: 18 December 2012

Venue: FNB Stadium

Kaizer Chiefs confirmed their place at the top of the league table until the season gets back underway next year, after they beat AmaZulu 2-0 at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday night.

The game got off to a slow start with the ball bogged down in midfield as both sides struggled to hold onto possession for long periods.

Chiefs started to gain some measure of control but clear-cut chances were hard to come by. Reneilwe Letsholonyane saw a powerful drive following a corner deflected off target.

A controversial moment then arrived in the 27th minute when Matthew Rusike seemed to have been clipped in the area. The referee initially looked to have pointed to the spot, in what would have been the correct decision judging by replays, but it was overturned.

Usuthu could have rubbed salt in the wounds moments later when they won a free-kick at the edge of the area and only an incredible save from Itumeleng Khune denied Marc van Heerden from finding the top corner with his free-kick.

That was about the only real chance from the coastal side in the first period, and Chiefs would eventually take the lead in the 36th minute.

The visitors were unable to get the ball away from their area and it eventually fell to Rusike at the edge of the area where he lashed a swerving strike into the bottom corner.

George Lebese fired just wide soon after and although the hosts couldn’t find a second goal, it all seemed fairly simple against a dormant Usuthu side.

The game went into a slump again after the break but AmaZulu looked slightly more adventurous.

Andile Khumalo almost created a great chance in the 53rd minute when he turned brilliantly but his cross to the far post was blocked.

Khumalo was again prevented from getting a shot away 12 minutes later when Tefu Mashamaite put in a last ditch challenge to block the shot.

Lehlohonolo Majoro should have put the game to bed moments later when he was found unmarked in the area but he guided his header against the outside of the post.

AmaZulu responded through Van Heerden who lashed a low shot across Khune but the Chiefs stopper got down sharply to push the shot away.

Bernard Parker, who suffered an injury in their last outing, came on from the bench and would make the desired impact when he looped an excellent shot over the goalkeeper with eight minutes to go.

Lebese had a late chance to make it 3-0, but he was unable to get his shot past the goalkeeper. The hosts had done enough though and ensured that they would finish the year at the top of the league table.

Chiefs: Itumeleng Khune, Siboniso Gaxa, Eric Mathoho, Tefu Mashamaite, Tsepo Masilela, George Lebese, Willard Katsande, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Matthew Rusike.

AmaZulu: Tapuwa Kapini, Thamsanqa Teyise, Marc van Heerden, Carlington Nyadombo, Philani Cele, Bongani Mbhele, Tsweu Mokoro, Kulegani Modondo, Andile Khumalo, Goodman Dlamini, Ayanda Dlamini.h

By Obakeng Maje

BRITS: Four suspects aged 18 to 24 years, have been apprehended by Brits police following a business robbery that took place in Mamogaleskraal near Brits this morning at about 11:00 North West police said. “

When the police arrived at the scene of crime, they found one suspect that was arrested by community members. The complainant,38 informed the police that five  suspects of which two were armed entered her shop and demanded money” Captain Adele Myburgh said.

“The suspects allegedly held her 66-year-old neighbour hostage. The complainant whilst still being held hostage screaming for help” She said.

Community members who heard the screaming voices came to rescue victims and managed to apprehend one suspect.

The other four suspects vanished into the bushes  with an undisclosed amount of money and airtime vouchers.

“The police conducted a thorough search in the bush and three suspects were found and arrested.

That brought the total arrests to four. Police also recovered a firearm (pallet gun), money and all the stolen airtime.

The suspects will appear in Brits Magistrates Court tomorrow for charges of Business Robbery.

The fifth suspect is still at large.

The Provincial Commissioner of the North West, Lt Gen Zukiswa Mbombo is thankful for the support received from the community members in Brits. “The South African Police Service is committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all people in South Africa. This can only be achieved if individuals and communities cooperate with the Police by volunteering information on criminals and their activities, and by persons taking reasonable steps to ensure their personal safety. In partnership the police and the community can Against Crime Together”; she said.

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe said on Tuesday he was confident the newly elected ANC top officials were capable of leading the party.

“I have full confidence in our leaders that indeed they will out-do themselves in leading us to undo these challenges [of poverty, unemployment and inequality],” he told delegates at the ANC’s national conference in Mangaung.

“The leadership were elected by the entire membership of the ANC. We are doing our work [as the ANC], under the watch and guidance of a very capable leadership we have just elected.”

President Jacob Zuma was re-elected as party leader earlier on Tuesday afternoon. He was challenged by Motlanthe.

Motlanthe’s previous position as deputy president was filled by Cyril Ramaphosa.

Motlanthe said he wanted to thank the newly elected leadership.

“I want to thank the president for letting me speak after he had spoken [after being re-elected],” he said.

“Protocol does not allow that, and I feel very grateful.”

He said he still believed in the integrity of the ANC.

“One thing needs to be said and I want to say it with all the conviction of its truth,” Motlanthe said.

“The African National Congress is the epitome of democracy. We must continue to campaign for democracy in our country and the world over.”

He said the ANC must “continue to sharpen its ability to hear the cries of our people”.

Motlanthe was given a standing ovation by the delegates as he took to the podium to speak.

Motlanthe declines NEC nomination Sapa

Scottland – The National Prosecuting Authority is planning to exhume what may be the bodies of Siboniso Tshabalala and Lolo Sono, young men last seen at the home of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in 1987, a Scottish weekend paper has reported.

“Police have now confirmed they know where their bodies are buried” and the NPA had told their families the bodies would be exhumed next month, the Sunday Herald said.

“Family members have been DNA-tested to aid identification and for a forensic autopsy to establish new evidence,” it said.

The article was written by foreign correspondent and author Fred Bridgland, who said Sono’s mother, Dorothy, had told him on Friday that the families had to wait until next month.

During the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings, Katiza Cebekhulu, who had lived for a while on Madikizela-Mandela’s property in Soweto, testified to having seen the ANC veteran sjambokking Sono and later killing Stompie Seipei, a teenage activist. Madikizela-Mandela rejected the allegations as untrue. Sono’s father, Nicodemus Sono, who also testified at the TRC, said his son had not been seen again after the incident.

In 1991, Madikizela-Mandela was convicted of having been an accessory to Seipei’s kidnapping and assault. Two years later the assault conviction was overturned by the appeal court, but the kidnapping conviction was upheld.

Jerry Richardson, who was the coach of Madikizela-Mandela’s soccer group, the Mandela United Football Club, received a life term for Seipei’s murder. He died in jail in 2009.

Bridgland wrote that the revelations about the bodies of Sono and Tshabalala came at the end of his research for a book on the Stompie affair and other actions of the club.

He had also spoken to Sono’s stepmother, Caroline Sono, who told him: “I hoped for so many years that my son was still alive in some foreign country. Now I know he is dead. What we want is our minds put to rest.”

NPA spokesman Makhosini Nkosi confirmed that possible burial sites were being examined “on the basis of recently obtained information”, but denied that such sites had been confirmed or excavated, according to Monday’s Daily Dispatch.

“Should the remains of Lolo Sono and Siboniso Tshabalala be located and identified through DNA, these remains will be formally handed to the two families by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development at a later stage, in accordance with the recommendations of the TRC,” he said.

The Daily Dispatch also quoted Nkosi as saying DNA had been taken from the two families. – The Star