Committees receive IEC briefing on LGE preparations

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By STAFF REPORTER

14 June 2026 – A joint meeting of three parliamentary oversight committees on Friday received a briefing from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on the state of readiness for the 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) and the voter registration weekend scheduled for 20 and 21 June 2026. The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and the Select Committee on Security and Justice met with the IEC to assess progress on voter registration and the IEC’s operational readiness.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Zweli Mkhize said the committees emphasised the need for clear communication to educate the public about the electoral system. Mkhize said the committees also emphasised that educational communication must be in all indigenous languages, including sign language, to educate, inform and raise awareness about the electoral system.

“We welcome the presentation and Parliament should continue to receive regular updates on public attitudes towards elections and trust in institutions. It is something that we, as parliamentarians, must constantly work on and find ways of improving, to increase the level of trust and confidence of the public.

“However, members raised questions about the online voter registration process, including reported delays and challenges with the one-time pins (OTPs). The committee noted that the commission must consider the practical reality that some citizens who require online registration services may not have functional cell phones and, therefore, may be unable to receive the OTPs needed to complete registration,” he said.

Mkhize said this matter must be treated as a community concern and asked the IEC to apply its mind and return for further engagement. He added that members also engaged with the IEC on voter management devices and on previous system challenges, especially where connectivity was limited.

“The IEC should continue addressing technical and logistical issues that may create uncertainty. The confidence that we must all have in the system requires that it is beyond question. The handling and security of election materials also formed part of the engagement.

“Members asked the IEC to provide further information on how election materials are transported, stored, accounted for and secured. The committees noted the IEC’s explanation that some security arrangements must be handled carefully to avoid creating additional risk,” said Mkhize.

The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, Jane Mananiso, welcomed the engagement, emphasising the importance of the briefing ahead of the registration weekend during Youth Month.

“It is important that we target the youth to register. It is important to include the youth, older persons, persons with disabilities and rural areas. The committees noted the IEC’s assessment that planning for the local government elections on 4 November is taking place in one of the most challenging pre-election climates in the past three decades.

“The environment is one marked by public pessimism, frustration, declining trust in institutions and a growing disengagement from formal democratic processes,” she said.

Mananiso said the committees also asked the IEC to regularly update Parliament on matters before the courts that may affect public perception and trust. She said the members also asked to be updated regularly on the situation in areas, where there are boundary disputes following the ward delimitation process, as this may affect voter registration and participation.

“The committees resolved that further engagement with the IEC will be necessary as preparations continue,” said Mananiso.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mosa Chabane, welcomed the information shared. Chabane said the committees will consider an oversight visit during a future registration weekend, where and when possible, to assess implementation on the ground.

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First life-saving MVR surgery performed at Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital Complex

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Picture: Tshepong/Klerksdorp Complex Hospital 

By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 June 2026 – The North West MEC for Health, Sello Lehari has welcomed another significant milestone in the advancement of specialised healthcare services following the successful performance of a complex Mitral Valve Replacement surgery at the Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex (KTHC) on 11 June 2026. Lehari said the procedure which saved the life of a patient, Mosemanegape Jacobs (36) from Vryburg, marks a major breakthrough in the provision of highly specialised tertiary healthcare services within the province and further strengthens Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex’s position as a leading centre of clinical excellence.

He further said as the province prepares for the establishment and operationalisation of the Desmond Tutu Medical School, Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex is expected to play a central role as a primary teaching and training platform for future healthcare professionals. Lehari added that the successful execution of such highly specialised procedures demonstrates the growing clinical capacity and readiness of the institution to support advanced medical training and service delivery.

“Mitral Valve Replacement is a sophisticated cardiac surgical procedure performed to replace a damaged mitral valve with an artificial valve. The surgery is often required when the valve becomes narrowed or leaks, preventing efficient blood circulation and placing significant strain on the heart.

“Jacobs was initially assessed and prepared for surgery by the hospital’s cardiology team led by Dr Chiweza and Dr Zacharia. The five-hour operation was successfully performed by a multidisciplinary Cardiothoracic Surgery Team led by Dr Tumi Taunyane from Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital and the University of the Witwatersrand, together with Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Dr Manzini and Registrar Dr Walters,” he said.

Lehari said the anaesthetic team consisted of Dr Mallier, Dr Leeba and Dr Machabe, supported by experienced theatre nursing personnel and a wide range of support services. He said the patient is currently recovering in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Tshepong Hospital, where he remains in a stable condition, fully conscious and successfully weaned off life-support systems.

“We would like to congratulate the medical team and described the achievement as a clear indication of the province’s commitment to expanding access to specialised healthcare services closer to communities.

“This successful operation represents much more than a medical breakthrough. It demonstrates the growing capacity of our public healthcare system to deliver highly specialised and life-saving interventions within the province,” said Lehari.

He said it is exactly the kind of progress they need as they prepare Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex to serve as a key training platform for the future Desmond Tutu Medical School. Lehari said they are building a healthcare system that not only treats patients, but also develops the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“Most importantly, this achievement means that patients from areas such as Vryburg and other parts of the province can increasingly access advanced treatment closer to home, reducing the burden of travelling hundreds of kilometres to facilities outside the province,” he said.

The Deputy Director-General for Hospitals and Specialised Services, Polaki Mokatsane said the procedure demonstrates the success of ongoing investments in specialised healthcare services and multidisciplinary clinical collaboration. Mokatsane said the successful completion of a complex cardiac surgery of this nature is evidence that their hospitals are steadily expanding their specialised service offerings.

“It reflects the dedication of our healthcare professionals, the effectiveness of our partnerships with centres of excellence, and the strategic investments being made to strengthen tertiary healthcare services in the North West province.

“Every milestone of this nature contributes to our broader objective of ensuring that patients receive quality specialised care within the province, while supporting the academic and training environment required for a modern medical school,” he said.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex, Thulane Madonsela, praised the collective efforts of all staff members involved in the patient’s care journey.

“This achievement belongs to every member of the Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex family. From the cardiologists, surgeons, anaesthetists and theatre nurses to the porters, clerks, perfusionists, radiographers, radiologists, health technology personnel and support staff, every individual played an important role in making this life-saving operation possible.

“At Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex, we do not simply replace heart valves; we restore lives, dignity and hope. We remain committed to providing compassionate, quality and patient-centred healthcare services to the people of the North West,” he said.

Madonsela said the department extends its appreciation to the surgical teams, support personnel and collaborating specialists whose expertise and commitment contributed to the successful outcome of the operation. He said the latest breakthrough further reinforces Klerksdorp-Tshepong Hospital Complex’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence capable of delivering advanced tertiary and specialised healthcare services while supporting the province’s vision of strengthening academic medicine and healthcare innovation.

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A woman stabbed to death in Lonely Park

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Picture: The deceased, Masego Moshweu-Moile/Facebook

By OBAKENG MAJE

14 June 2026 – A woman (39) was allegedly stabbed to death in Lonely Park, near Mahikeng. According to the police, on 12 June 2026, at approximately 5:10pm, they were called to a house following a complaint related to domestic violence.

The Ngaka Modiri Molema District police spokesperson, Sergeant Sipho Taliwe said upon arrival at the scene, the police found family members and Emergency Medical and Rescue Services (EMRS) personnel, who had already certified the victim, Masego Moshweu-Moile dead. Taliwe said Moshweu-Moile was reportedly discovered by a family member after several attempts to contact her went unanswered.

“The family member then proceeded to the residence and found all doors locked and windows closed. After searching for keys, she located a bunch of keys inside a parked vehicle within the yard. She managed to unlock the main door, but found the bedroom door locked.

“She subsequently searched the house for the key, located one, and unlocked the bedroom door. Upon entering the room, she allegedly discovered the deceased lying motionless in a pool of blood. It is further alleged that the deceased and her husband had been involved in a confrontation earlier that morning,” he said.

Taliwe further said the husband was later involved in a collision with a truck on Nelson Mandela Drive, near a shopping mall. He added that the husband is currently hospitalised and receiving medical treatment.

“The police investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Mahikeng SAPS or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. The community is urged to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media platforms and to allow the police to establish and verify all facts as part of the ongoing investigation,” said Taliwe.

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A man sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for attempted murder

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

14 June 2026 – A man (32) was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Ganyesa Regional Court for attempted murder. The conviction stems from an incident in which the accused, Mogomotsi Nogane stabbed Mamikie Gouws (30) with a sharp object.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said the evidence brought before the court indicated that on 29 July 2025, the victim was asleep at her home when the accused broke a window pane and entered her bedroom. Tselanyane said upon entering the room, Nogane produced a sharp object and stabbed the victim several times before fleeing through the same window.

“The victim identified the assailant as Nogane. Subsequently, the police and Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) were summoned to the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where she was admitted with multiple stab wounds to the head and upper body.

“A case of attempted murder was registered and referred to the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation (SECI) Unit for further investigation. A search for the suspect was launched and Nogane was subsequently apprehended and charged,” he said.

Tselanyane further said the police successfully opposed bail, resulting in the accused remaining in custody from the time of his arrest until his sentencing.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the investigating officer, Detective Constable Teko Montwedi and the prosecuting team for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring that justice was served. Naidoo added that the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the province remains committed to combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and will continue to act decisively against perpetrators of such crimes.

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BIMA celebrates five years in the game

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Picture: BISA Advisory Board members/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

14 June 2026 – The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) celebrates five years of championing, recognising and empowering women in music, the organisation is proud to announce the appointment of a distinguished Advisory Board comprising some of Africa’s most accomplished leaders across music, media, business, governance, fashion, healthcare and the creative industries.

BIMA said this appointment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Basadi in Music Awards can as the platform continues to expand its influence beyond South Africa and strengthen its position as a leading Pan-African platform dedicated to celebrating and advancing women in music.

The founder of Basadi in Music Awards, Hloni Modise-Matau said the BIMA Advisory Board serves as a distinguished collective of industry leaders, creatives, executives and advocates who provide strategic guidance, insight, and support to advance the mission of the organisation. Modise-Matau said the Board plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity, credibility and long-term vision of the Awards by offering expertise on industry trends, governance, stakeholder engagement and opportunities for growth.

“Through their collective experience, members help ensure that the Awards continue to celebrate, elevate, and empower women across all sectors of the music industry. As ambassadors of the Basadi in Music Awards, Advisory Board members will champion the recognition of women’s achievements, promote inclusivity and excellence, strengthen industry partnerships, and support initiatives that drive meaningful change within the South African and African music landscape.

“The Advisory Board’s contribution ensures that the Basadi in Music Awards remains a respected and impactful platform dedicated to honouring the remarkable women who shape, influence, and transform the music industry,” she said.

Modise-Matau further said the Board brings together a remarkable collective of women whose expertise, leadership, and influence have shaped industries, inspired communities, and contributed meaningfully to Africa’s cultural and economic landscape. She added that their role will be to provide strategic guidance, industry insight, and leadership as BIMA enters its next chapter of growth, impact and continental expansion.

“This announcement comes on the heels of another major milestone for the organisation. Following the closure of nominations for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards, BIMA recorded its highest number of nominations since inception, demonstrating the growing reach of the platform and the increasing recognition of women making significant contributions to the music and entertainment industries across Africa.

“Nominees for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards will be officially announced later this month. The BIMA Advisory Board comprises Yvonne Chaka Chaka, who is affectionately known as the “Princess of Africa”. Chaka Chaka is one of the continent’s most celebrated music icons, philanthropists and humanitarians,” said Modise-Matau.

She said with a career spanning more than four decades, Chaka Chaka has used her platform to champion education, health advocacy, women and youth empowerment, becoming one of Africa’s most respected cultural ambassadors and global voices. Modise-Matau said another board member is Dr Linah Ngcobo, who is a legendary South African music icon, pastor, cultural leader and community builder with over 40 years of influence in music, ministry and mentorship, known for principled leadership and nurturing generations across the creative and social sectors.

“Other members include Dr Mpho Phalatse, Janine Starkey, Dr Kina Nhlengethwa, Lerato Matsoso, Penny Bouwer, Antos Stella, Yolanda Sangweni, Lala Tuku, Sibu Mabena and Manaileng Maphike. The establishment of the Advisory Board represents a defining moment in the organisation’s journey.

“As we celebrate five years of the Basadi in Music Awards, we are intentional about building a sustainable institution that will continue to champion women in music for generations to come. This Advisory Board brings together extraordinary leaders whose collective experience, wisdom and passion for Africa will help guide the next chapter of our growth,” she said.

Modise-Matau said they are honoured to have these remarkable women walk this journey with them as they continue creating opportunities, driving impact and elevating women across the music and creative industries.

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A man jailed for raping a minor

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By OBAKENG MAJE

14 June 2026 – A man (27) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Mmabatho Regional Court for raping a minor. According to the complainant, who is the minor’s mother, 1 March 2025, she was at her residential place at Magogoe Tshepang village, near Mahikeng when the accused, Dipogisano George Morwe who is affectionately known as Malome, came to her and allegedly told her that he had sexual intercourse with her daughter (14) and he was afraid of being arrested, hence he confessed to her.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said on 4 March 2025, the victim told her mother about the incident. Tselanyane said she indicated that she went to Malome’s place to ask for water.

“Furthermore, Malome allegedly offered her a beer and thereafter slept with her. The matter was reported to the police and a case of rape was registered and referred to Mmabatho Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS).

“The investigation led to the arrest of Morwe. The police successfully opposed bail and the accused was kept in detention until his sentencing. The court also heard that the accused was previously convicted of the same crime and he served 10 years imprisonment,” he said.

Tselanyane further said the court ordered that the name of the accused be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) and he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the sentencing and applauded the investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer Kenneth Ntshekane and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for the sterling job.

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Five people nabbed for burglary

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 June 2026 – Five suspects nabbed for burglary at a tuck shop in Reagile Township, in Koster on 10 June 2026. At around 8:30am, the police deployed in the Koster area were conducting high-visibility patrols as part of proactive policing measures, following reports of potential threats against foreign-owned shops and planned protest activities.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said during patrols in Reagile, the police observed that several shops were closed and noticed a group of people gathered in the street. Myburgh said upon investigation, the police discovered five female suspects in the process of removing corrugated iron sheets from a tuck shop to gain unlawful entry.

“The suspects had already stolen groceries from the business. When police approached, the suspects attempted to flee the scene, but the people immediately pursued and apprehended all five suspects. The stolen groceries were recovered and seized as evidence.

“Following the arrests, a number of bystanders who had gathered in the area dispersed and left the scene. The police noted that a video depicting members of the public scattering was subsequently recorded by an unidentified individual and shared on social media,” she said.

Myburgh further said the video does not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the incident, which involved the successful arrest of burglary suspects and the recovery of stolen property. She added that the situation remained calm and peaceful after the arrests, with no further incidents reported in the area.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, said the prompt actions of the police demonstrate SAPS’ commitment to protect businesses and maintain law and order. Naidoo warned that criminal acts committed under the guise of community concerns or public gatherings will not be tolerated and those who break the law will be held accountable.

“Lastly, we urge community members to conduct themselves in an orderly and lawful manner at all times. Disorderly conduct that disrupts public order, interferes with police duties, or creates unnecessary panic undermines efforts to maintain safety and stability.

“The five accused, Dikeledi Pule (22), Kelebogile Motshegwa (27), Kedibone Mosweetsi (29), Zanele Makgae (26) and Kedibone Kesilwe (36), briefly appeared before the Koster Magistrate’s Court on 11 June 2026, on charges of burglary at a business premises.

“They were given a warning and their case was postponed to 16 July 2026,” he said.

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Iconic return of SAMAs to the Platinum Province

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By STAFF REPORTER

12 June 2026 – The North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC, Virginia Tlhapi described the return of South African Music Awards (SAMAs) to the Sun City Superbowl in North West as both an emotional and historic moment for the local creative industry. Tlhapi said the Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) is delighted to officially announce that the 32nd edition of the SAMAs will return to the province on 15 August 2026.

She further said bringing the country’s most prestigious music awards ceremony back to the province that has hosted some of its most iconic moments over the years and whom many also consider the “Platinum Province” its traditional home. Tlhapi added that the announcement was made on 27 May 2026.

“I could not hide my excitement at the return of South Africa’s premier music celebration. It feels like yesterday when we hosted the 28th instalment of the SAMAs here in the North West. This province has always been a proud and capable host, and we are ready once again to welcome the nation,” said Tlhapi.

She said the return of the SAMAs marks not just an event, but a renewed celebration of the province’s cultural energy, hospitality, and creative infrastructure.

According to SAMA spokesperson, Unathi Gwija, preparations are already underway with key stakeholder engagements taking place to ensure a seamless and unforgettable production. Gwija said they have already begun extensive stakeholder consultations in preparation for the SAMAs.

“There is a strong sense of excitement and unity as we return to the North West, a province that has proven itself as an exceptional host. The announcement has sparked excitement across the music and entertainment industry, with anticipation building for what is expected to be one of the most vibrant and culturally significant editions of the awards to date.

“With the SAMAs returning to familiar ground, this has been described as a Homecoming Edition, a celebration of music, legacy, and the continued evolution of South African sound on its biggest stage,” she said.

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Two men nabbed for murder and house robbery

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Picture: Two men arrested for murder and house robbery/Generic

By STAFF REPORTER

12 June 2026 – Two accused, Hendrik Louis Pretorius (59) and Lourance Johannes Benjamin Roos (42) briefly appeared before the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court on 11 June 2026, on charges of murder and house robbery. Pretorius and Roos’s court appearance stems from their arrest on 9 June 2026, in connection with the murder of Johan Christian Scheepers, also known as Riana (52).

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said it is alleged that on 25 March 2026, at around 11:20am, the police received a complaint from one of the accused (Pretorius) regarding a murder and house robbery at a residence in Andries Street, adjacent to the N4 road in Swartruggens. Tselanyane said upon arrival at the scene, the police were shown the body of a man lying in a pool of blood with multiple wounds to the upper body.

“All relevant role players were summoned and Scheepers, who was allegedly residing alone, was certified dead at the scene. The police immediately commenced a search for the suspect(s) and followed up on every lead. A few days after the incident, someone allegedly advertised goods resembling those stolen from the deceased’s house on a local business WhatsApp group.

“A contact number and address were not provided in the advertisement. The police were alerted and in May 2026, the same goods were allegedly advertised again using a different contact number and address,” he said.

Tselanyane further said when confronted by the police about the advertisement, Pretorius denied any knowledge of the advertisement on the group. He added that in April 2026, Pretorius again contacted the police and reported a housebreaking and theft at the deceased’s residence.

“With the assistance of National Crime Intelligence and after obtaining a search warrant for Pretorius’s residence, the police recovered a cellphone in which the whereabouts of the alleged murder weapon were discussed. The two suspects were immediately arrested and charged with murder and house robbery.

“Pretorius and Roos were remanded in custody until 17 June 2026, for a formal bail application. Investigation into the matter continues,” he said.

Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, applauded all those involved in the arrest of the suspects for a job well done. Naidoo reiterated that the police in the province will continue striving to ensure that those who believe they can get away with crime are brought to book.

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Monna o atlholetswe botshelo botlhe kwa kgolegelong mabapi le dipetelelo

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

12 June 2026 – Monna wa dingwaga di le 44 yo go begwang fa e le moagi wan aga ya Botswana, Elias Lekganyane, o atlholetswe botshelo botlhe kwa kgolegelong ke kgotlhatshekelo ya sedika ya Molopo mono Mahikeng mabapi le dipetelelo le go thuba mo ntlung. Go begwa fa molatofadiwa a ile a itatlhela ka letlhabaphefo kwa ntlung nngwe kwa Reviera Park mono Mahikeng mo bosigong fa kgwedi ya Seetebosigo ene e tlhola matsatsi a le 15, ka ngwaga wa 2023.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi mo sedikeng sa Ngaka Modiri Molema, Sarasanta Sipho Taliwe are motswasetlhabelo wa dingwaga di le 55, one a robetse fa a utlwa mokgwasa mo ntlung. Taliwe are motswasetlhabelo o ile a tsoga le go ya go lekola gore go diragalang.

“Ka maswabi, o ile a kopana le molatofadiwa. O ile a mo kgema le go mo hapa maoto le matsogo ka thudi. Go begwa fa molatofadiwa a ile a mo betelela, mme morago ga moo, a tsaya dilwana tsa mo ntlung le go di pega mo sejanageng sa motswasetlhabelo.

“Go begwa fa molatofadiwa a ile a boela mo ntlung, mme a betelela motswasetlhabelo lekgetlho la bobedi. Go begwa fa Lekganyane a ile a leka go dumisa sejanaga sa motswasetlhabelo, fela go ile ga pala. Go begwa fa a ile a boela kwa ntlung le go betelela motswasetlhabelo lekgetlho la boraro,” Taliwe wa tlhalosa.

Taliwe are Lekganyane o ile a shupiwa ke motswasetlhabelo, mme seo se ile sa lebisa kwa go tshwarweng ga gagwe. Taliwe are Lekganyane o ile a bonwa molato mo ditatofatsong di le thataro go akaretsa dipetelelo di le tharo, go thuba mo ntlung, go tshwara poo ka maitlhomo a go ntsha dikgobalo ga mmogo le go tlola molao wa bofaladi.

“Leina la molatofadiwa le tla tsenngwa mo maineng a batho ba ba golaganngwang le dipetelelo, mme o tlhalositswe fa a sa siamela go tshola tlhobolo,” Taliwe wa tlhalosa.

Re sale foo, mokomishinara wa sedika sa Ngaka Modiri Molema, Major General Deborah Mmolawa, o amogetse katlholo e e neetsweng Lekganyane. Gape Mmolawa o akgotse mmatlisisi wa kgetsi e, ga mmogo le lephata la bosekisi.

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