Committee calls a joint meeting to discuss GEMS governance concerns

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By REGINALD KANYANE

27 August 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration called for stronger accountability and improved affordability at the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS). GEMS briefed the committee on its performance from January to June this year, as well as strategies to address fraud and waste in its operations.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Jan de Villiers said the meeting was important because, although GEMS is not funded from the fiscus, it is funded through member and employer contributions. De Villiers said since it was established through an Act of Parliament, the committee has an oversight responsibility over the Scheme.

“The meeting followed concerns previously raised by the committee about fraud-related claims and affordability issues. The committee is also on record for its concern about the impact of waste on GEMS’ financial sustainability and ability to provide affordable healthcare to public servants and their dependents.

“Committee members raised a number of concerns. They asked about the payment of public servants who were acting as trustees and whether they are doing so with the requisite approvals for paid work outside the public service,” he said.

De Villiers further said some members were particularly concerned about double-dipping. He added that the committee noted GEMS’ strategies to prevent, detect and recover losses from fraud and waste.

“The scheme reported that 3 062 instances were detected in 2025, while remediation and recoveries amounted to R257 million. Members stressed that fraud should be clearly distinguished from waste, abuse and error so that suspected criminal conduct can be referred to the relevant law enforcement authorities for investigation.

“The committee also examined GEMS’ contribution increases, hospital-centred benefit design and claims management, among other things. Members stressed that cost containment must not become a barrier to members accessing necessary healthcare,” said de Villiers.

He said members also welcomed a proposal by the Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration, Pinky Kekana, that a joint meeting be called of the Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration, the Portfolio Committee on Health and the Standing Committee on Finance to further interrogate governance matters in GEMS. De Villiers said the committee supported the proposal, adding that organised labour and the Council for Medical Schemes must also be invited.

“We reiterate that the committee’s focus is to ensure that GEMS fulfils its purpose of providing accessible and affordable healthcare to public servants,” he said.

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A suspect in court for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition

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Picture: Firearms seized by the police during the operation/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

27 August 2026 – The police in Mothotlung, supported by Brits Crime Intelligence and the Brits Tactical Response Team (TRT), arrested a suspect (59) and seized several unlicensed firearms and live ammunition during an intelligence-driven operation conducted on 25 August 2026. The operation followed a tip-off regarding individuals allegedly terrorising communities in and around the Mothotlung area and suspected of being in possession of illegal firearms.

The North West police spokesperson, Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said the investigation led the police to Extension 2, Mothotlung, where a suspect was located driving a bakkie. Morake said the vehicle was stopped and searched, resulting in the discovery of a 9mm CZ pistol and 15 rounds of live ammunition.

“The suspect could not produce a valid licence for the firearm and was immediately arrested. The police then proceeded to the suspect’s residential address in Mothotlung, where a further search resulted in the seizure of two pistols, one rifle, one shotgun and various rounds of live ammunition, including rifle and handgun ammunition.

“The police are conducting further investigations to establish the ownership of the firearms and ammunition and to determine whether they may be linked to other criminal activities. The suspect is facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition in terms of the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000),” she said.

Morake further said the suspect is expected to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on 27 August 2026.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, commended the police involved in the operation. Adams said the seizure of the unlicensed firearms and ammunition cannot merely be regarded as a job well done, as the ballistic analysis and possible linking of the firearms to other crime scenes is eagerly anticipated.

“We acknowledged the commitment and diligence of SAPS members in ridding communities of illegal firearms and urged the public to continue providing information to the police,” he added.

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A man sentenced to life imprisonment for rape

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By AGISANANG SCUFF

27 August 2026 –A man was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Zeerust Regional Court for rape. On 27 July 2024, the victim’s mother left her children, together with the children of a friend at the residence she shared with the accused, Sunnyboy Manyako before accompanying him to a local tavern.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said while at the tavern, the victim’s mother’s friend enquired about the whereabouts of her children and subsequently went to the residence to fetch them. Mabasa said the evidence before the court revealed that Manyako later left the tavern and returned to the residence, where he found the victim awake with her sibling.

“He proceeded to rape the child before leaving the residence again. Later that evening, the victim’s mother returned home and enquired about the whereabouts of Manyako. The victim then disclosed the rape to her mother.

“The mother searched for the accused, found him in the street, and returned with him to the residence, where the victim repeated her account in his presence. Manyako subsequently assaulted the victim’s mother,” she said.  

Mabasa further said she fled to her parental home for safety and the matter was reported to the authorities. She added that this led to the accused’s arrest and prosecution.

“During sentencing proceedings, state prosecutor Kagiso Modibedi urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, emphasising the gravity of sexual offences against children and the need for courts to send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated.

“In agreeing with the state’s submissions, the court found that the accused had breached the trust placed in him. The victim had been left at his residence, a place where she should have been safe and protected. Instead, the accused exploited that trust and subjected her to a horrific sexual assault,” said Mabasa.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence, stating that it appropriately reflects the seriousness of the offence and the devastating impact that sexual violence has on children and their families. Makhari also acknowledged the valuable support provided by the Thuthuzela Care Centre, which assistance helped ensure that the victim received the necessary care and support throughout the prosecution process.

“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences against children are held accountable and that victims receive the support and protection they need throughout the criminal justice process,” she said.

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91% of Higher education institutions found to be non-compliant with employment equity

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Picture: Higher education institution/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

27 August 2026 – The Department of Employment and Labour inspections of higher education institutions has found that in the financial year 2025–2026 for the period covering (April–March) these were found to be non-compliant with the Employment Equity Act (EEA) – indicating that compliance risk is likely understated, not overstated, by current inspection coverage. The department briefly appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education in Cape Town to brief and update it regarding the monitoring of compliance by South African universities with the Employment Services Act, 2014, and the Employment Equity Act and other relevant legislation, specifically in relation to the appointment of foreign nationals.

The inspections happened during the transition period following the coming into effect of the new EE Act of 2022 and the setting of five-year sectoral targets.

The acting Chief Director of Department of Employment and Labour’s Statutory and Advocacy Services, Advocate Michael Msiza said the department completed 1 948 inspections, 181 were found to be compliant and in 1 767 of inspections were found non-compliant. Msiza said the department has allowed the institutions to prepare themselves to put systems in place to implement and monitor their EE Plans.

“Soon, we will be cracking the whip to ensure compliance with the laws of the country. The department was appearing before the committee alongside the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) on updates regarding investigations in the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system, including the issuance of study and work permits, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Department of Home Affairs on the issuance of work and study visas within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, as well as progress on the development of the Critical Skills List.

“Elaborating on the performance of the institutions of higher education, we warned that overall, at the rate these institutions were implementing transformation, this country may not be transformed,” he said.

Msiza further said institutions of higher education are centres of excellence, skills development, research and scholarship and talent identification. He added that, therefore, there is no excuse that they do not have qualified candidates within.

Msiza said the question that needs to be asked is what is really happening in these institutions? He singled out the University of Cape Town and Witwatersrand as problematic.

“We have identified allegations of another area of growing concern, where academic personnel were being appointed without interviews,” said Msiza.

The Department’s Inspector General Aggy Moiloa said the department will be focusing its inspection energies on the accommodation provided to students in relation to compliance with Occupational Health and Safety.

Director of Employment Equity in the Department, Dr Ntsoaki Mamashela, said the rise in the number of foreign nationals at institutions of higher learning, especially at senior and top levels, is worrying.

“Given the high level of unemployment, one wonders what skills foreign nationals are bringing that do not exist in South Africa. Universities produce graduates, but they seem not able to absorb their own products.

“We cannot fail in our statutory obligation and hide behind internationalisation,” she expressed concern.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) has obtained a proclamation to investigate illegality in the obtaining of study visas. It said in its submission that it was not against the policy of internationalisation, however “it cannot be a free for all”. The SIU said that there can never be a justification why an institution will hire a foreign national when there is a South African.

“Processes must be followed. Universities cannot break the law and claim internationalisation. In some institutions, we feel the law has been broken,” said SIU.

SIU disclosed that foreign nationals obtain study visas on the strength of submitting fraudulent documents, and this was done in collusion with officials from education institutions and the Department of Home Affairs.

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Registrar of Labour Relations disputes Labour Court Judgement

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

27 August 2026 – The Registrar of Labour Relations has noted the recent judgement of the Labour Court concerning the Public Servants Association (PSA). The RLR said while it has the utmost respect for the Labour Court and the judicial process, it respectfully disagrees with the judgement, both on the legal principles applied and on the factual findings made.

The Department of Labour and Employment national spokesperson, Teboho Thejane said their concerns are based on some considerations. Thejane said the Registrar is of the view that the Labour Court did not adequately give effect to the findings and legal reasoning of the Labour Appeal Court (LAC), which are binding on the Labour Court.

“The Registrar maintains that the Labour Court does not have the authority to disregard or depart from the ratio decidendi and findings of the LAC. The Labour Appeal Court expressly found that the PSA’s contention that the PSA and PSA NPC operate as one and the same entity overlooks the fundamental legal principle that a company is a separate juristic entity from a trade union.

“The LAC held that a trade union is an association of employees whose principal purpose is to regulate relations between employees and employers, as contemplated in section 95 of the Labour Relations Act (LRA),” he said.

Thejane further said the court further clarified that, in terms of the applicable statutory framework, the affairs of a non-profit company are managed by a board of directors, whereas a trade union is led by office bearers as envisaged by the LRA. He added that the LAC further found that the PSA had failed to submit audited financial statements of the trade union as required by section 96(1)(b) of the LRA and agreed with the Registrar’s position that the current board of directors of the PSA NPC are not office bearers as contemplated by the Act.

“The Registrar presented substantial evidence before the Labour Court demonstrating that the PSA continues to be managed by a board of directors and a general manager rather than office bearers as required by the LRA.

“The Labour Court did not set aside the Registrar’s notice of intention to cancel registration but merely suspended its operation pending the outcome of the appeal,” said Thejane.

He said the Registrar is of the view that the court failed to properly consider the uncontested evidence demonstrating that the PSA continues to be governed through a board of directors and a general manager, contrary to the requirements of the LRA. Thejane said it is important to clarify that the Registrar has not cancelled the registration of the PSA.

“The Registrar merely issued a notice of intention to cancel registration in accordance with the provisions of the Labour Relations Act. The suggestion that the Registrar adopted a “high-handed” approach is not supported by the evidence.

“The Labour Appeal Court recognised that the Registrar engaged with the PSA on these matters, including a meeting held on 08 February 2022. In addition, evidence was presented that the Registrar wrote to the PSA on 19 April 2022 regarding the compliance concerns,” he said.

Thejane said while the PSA disputed receipt of the correspondence, no response was received. He said for more than three years, the compliance concerns raised by the Registrar have remained unresolved.

“Consequently, allegations that the Registrar acted maliciously are unfounded and unsupported by the evidence presented before the courts. Such assertions unjustifiably impugn the integrity and character of the Registrar.

“The Registrar notes that the Labour Court accepted that the PSA NPC had locus standi to bring the application and characterised the Registrar’s concerns as “petty.” The Registrar respectfully disagrees with this finding. The Labour Relations Act recognises office bearers, and not boards of directors, as those authorised to lead and act on behalf of a trade union,” said Thejane.

He said the legal position was confirmed by the Labour Appeal Court. Thejane said the Registrar further disagrees with the Labour Court’s conclusion that there was no proper analysis of the relevant issues or that the Registrar had adopted a predetermined position concerning the PSA.

“The appeal process remains underway and is expected to be heard in due course. The Registrar is currently consulting on the broader implications of the Labour Court judgement, particularly in light of concerns that the judgement may have the unintended effect of condoning non-compliance with key provisions of the Labour Relations Act governing the registration, governance and accountability of trade unions.

“The Registrar of Labour Relations remains committed to upholding the Constitution, the Labour Relations Act, and the rule of law. The office will continue to execute its statutory mandate objectively, fairly and without fear, favour or prejudice, while respecting the independence of the courts and the judicial process,” he said.

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North West Department of Education to host Provincial NTAs

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono

By REGINALD KANYANE

27 August 2026 – The North West Department of Education will host the Provincial 2026 National Teaching Awards ceremony on 28 August 2026. The primary objective of the NTAs is to honour exceptional teachers who show extraordinary dedication, often under challenging conditions and highlight their vital role in advancing inclusive, quality education across South Africa.

The North West MEC for Education, Dr Desbo Mohono said the awards promote best practices in schools and provide an opportunity to acknowledge all outstanding teachers for their continued excellence in service within the province. Mohono highlighted that teachers are the backbone of the education system.

“Teachers are the backbone of our education system. They play a vital role in shaping young minds, nurturing dreams and empowering the next generation to create a brighter and better future. Through their unwavering dedication and commitment to educating our children, they make a lasting difference in their lives. Teachers deserve our deepest respect, gratitude and appreciation.

“The event is scheduled to take place at Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng on Friday at 9am,” she said.

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A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for rape a tenant

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By OBAKENG MAJE

27 August 2026 – A man (18) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court for rape. This comes after the accused, Katlego Setidisho raped a woman (23), who was a tenant at his family home.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said the incident occurred on 22 March 2024, when the complainant was drinking with the accused’s mother at the residence where she rented accommodation. Mabasa said after the evening of drinking, the complainant indicated that she wished to sleep.

“The accused’s mother directed her to a room situated within the same yard. The complainant went to the room and noticed the accused following her. She later lost consciousness and fell asleep.

“Upon waking, she observed the accused leaving the room and realised that she was undressed. Suspecting that she had been sexually assaulted, she reported the matter to the authorities,” she said.

Mabasa further said during the trial, the state represented by Advocate Kefentse Diseko, successfully argued that the complainant was unconscious at the time of the incident and was therefore incapable of consenting to sexual intercourse. She added that in his defence, the accused claimed that the sexual intercourse had been consensual and argued that the complainant could not testify that she had witnessed penetration.

“The court was required to determine whether the complainant had consented to the sexual intercourse or whether she had been unconscious at the time of the incident.

“In reaching its decision, the court considered the definition of consent as set out in the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007,” said Mabasa.

She said the court found that there had been no agreement between the accused and the complainant to engage in sexual intercourse and consequently convicted him of rape. Mabasa said in considering an appropriate sentence, the court emphasised that, as the son of the complainant’s landlord, the accused was in a position where he should have respected and protected her rather than exploit her vulnerability.

“The court further considered the accused’s relatively young age and prospects of rehabilitation, which warranted a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence.

“Setidisho was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, declared unfit to possess a firearm and ordered to have his particulars entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the outcome, stating that the sentence demonstrates the NPA’s commitment to holding perpetrators of sexual offences accountable and protecting vulnerable victims.

Makhari said the NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of sexual offences and to holding offenders accountable, particularly where vulnerable individuals are exploited in circumstances where they ought to feel safe and protected.

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Cocaine worth over R200m seized

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Picture: Cocaine worth over R200m seized/Supplied

By AGISANANG SCUFF

26 August 2026 – The acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has applauded the work of a multidisciplinary team at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) following the seizure of cocaine worth an estimated R200 million. On Tuesday, SAPS members attached to ORTIA, working with other law enforcement authorities including Customs officials, intercepted two separate consignments of cocaine.

Dimpane said in the first incident, two large travel suitcases were intercepted at the airport terminal. She said the suitcases contained blocks of suspected cocaine weighing approximately 84 kilograms.

“In a separate interception at the cargo section, four boxes containing approximately 250 kilograms of suspected cocaine, packed into 220 blocks, were seized. The combined estimated street value of the seized cocaine is more than R200 million.

“No arrests have been made at this stage. Investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the importation and distribution of the drugs,” she said.

Dimpane further commended the multidisciplinary team for its vigilance and continued efforts to disrupt drug trafficking through the country’s major international entry points. She added that the vigilance of their members at this strategic port of entry ought to be commended.

“On a monthly basis, we continue to intercept large quantities of drugs and disrupt the activities of drug mules. These successes send a strong message that we will not allow South Africa to be used as a transit point or market for illicit drugs.

“We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to detect, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking networks,” concluded Dimpane.

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Three people hacked to death with spade

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Picture: Two of three people hacked to death with spade/Supplied

By OBAKENG MAJE

26 August 2026 – The police in Moeka Vuma, near Makapanstad have launched a manhunt for a man (41) wanted in connection with the brutal murder of three people. The police are searching for James Mohajane, who is wanted for the murder of his girlfriend, Moipone Lefoka, her sister, Esther Lefoka and Esther’s boyfriend, Tshepo Molekwa.

The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said it is alleged that the three victims were last seen together at a house belonging to Tshepo Molekwa. Mathe said on Sunday morning, the bodies of the three victims were discovered at the house.

“They had allegedly been hacked to death with a spade. Mohajane was nowhere to be found when police arrived at the scene. His cellphone was, however, found at the crime scene. The motive for the killings is still under investigation.

“SAPS is appealing to anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of James Mohajane to immediately contact Sergeant Nhlapo on 078 918 7746,” she said.

Mathe further said members of the public are urged not to approach or confront the suspect, but to immediately provide information to the police. She added that the SAPS reiterates its commitment to intensifying efforts to prevent and combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and violent crime, particularly crimes targeting women and vulnerable groups.

“The South African Police Service (SAPS) intensifies its fight against GBVF and serious and violent crimes perpetrated against women, children and vulnerable groups during Women’s Month,” said Mathe.

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A man sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for attempted murder

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By REGINALD KANYANE

26 August 2026 – A man (47) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Colesberg Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after a victim (52) reported the matter at Kuyasa Police Station in January 2026, after he sustained a life-threatening stab wound.

According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe, on 9 January 2026, at approximately 10pm, the accused, Vuyani Rasmeni and the victim, were at a shebeen in Kuyasa, where they were socialising. Litabe said later that evening, the victim went to a nearby tuck shop and when he returned to the shebeen, he encountered Rasmeni, who allegedly took out a knife and stabbed him once in the chest before fleeing the scene.

“The victim was rushed to hospital, where he received medical treatment for the life-threatening injury. He was discharged from hospital on 16 January 2026. The case was assigned to Detective Sergeant Gorrah, who conducted a thorough investigation that led to the arrest of the accused.

“Rasmeni appeared in court on several occasions and was remanded in custody until his conviction and sentencing. In addition to the 15-year prison sentence, the court declared Rasmeni unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, welcomed the sentence and commended Detective Sergeant Gorrah for his exceptional investigative work, which ultimately contributed to securing justice for the victim. Mtukushe said the conviction and sentencing of the accused, aligns directly with the SAPS’ commitment to ensuring that all citizens are and feel safe, that supports and advocates the Reset Agenda.

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