Moral Regeneration Movement in North West condemns killing of eight people in Orkney

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in the North West has condemned the killing of eight people at a tavern in Extension 13, Kanana Township, near Orkney. According to North West police, the suspects arrived at the tavern, looking for Basotho nationals, then randomly fired shots that instantly killed seven people. 

One of the several injured patrons succumbed to injuries in hospital. It is alleged that the suspects then took the CCTV system, cash from the till and snooker table. 

The Convenor of the Moral Regeneration Movement Provincial Interim Committee, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele said the suspects further robbed patrons of their cell phones and fled from the scene. Kgwele said the civil society-led movement described the brutal attack as a senseless and barbaric act.

He further calls on police not to leave any stone unturned until those responsible for the heinous and ghastly act that has sent shivers across the province and nation are behind bars. Kgwele added that those who do not subscribe to peaceful co-existence must be removed from society to ensure that communities are safer.

“We cannot afford a Zama-Zama turf war or a pushback after successful Vala Umgodi operations conducted in the area. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the families that lost their loved ones in the attack and wish those hospitalised a speedy recovery. 

“No one will be safe until the marauding heartless murderers are disarmed and apprehended. We therefore urge our communities to assist police, who have launched a manhunt in pursuit of the murderers in their investigations,” he said.

Kgwele appealed to the communities to unite in action against the cycle of violence prevalent in the area by reclaiming their activism in order to promote and harness collective responsibility among communities within the spirit of Ubuntu. He said no effort must be spared to tackle the tide of violent crime threatening communities in Matlosana. 

“The rule of law must be established in order to regain confidence in the criminal justice system,” he underscored.

Meanwhile, the ANC acting national spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi said: “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the horrific killing of eight individuals at a tavern. This brutal act is an assault on the safety and security of our communities. The actions of the suspects, who not only took lives but also robbed the establishment and patrons, are reprehensible and must be met with swift justice.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to those injured. The ANC stands in solidarity with the affected community during this difficult time.”

Godlimpi said they call on law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in their investigation. He said it is imperative that the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. 

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NWU vice chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka calls for improved accountability in govt

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Picture: North West University (NWU) vice-chancellor and principal, Prof Bismark Tyobeka/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

North West University (NWU) vice-chancellor and principal, Prof Bismark Tyobeka calls for policies and approaches that make sure that government’s actions are focused on the needs and well-being of communities. Tyobeka said this should be done, while fostering a culture of trust and engagement between the government and its citizens.

He was a keynote speaker at the Nelson Mandela Memorial Lecture at the Mmabatho Civic Centre in Mahikeng on 24 July 2024. The memorial lecture was organised by the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM), where Mahikeng Chapter was also launched.

“Before we seek sustainable solutions that can take our country forward, we have to first discuss what is wrong. We need to look at the importance of the South African Constitution of being service-oriented and growth-driven to achieve the goals of the National Democratic Revolution (NDR).

“The month of July is appropriately designated as ‘moral regeneration month’ as it coincides with the birthday of Nelson Mandela on 18 July. The late president, Dr Nelson Mandela, rightly understood that we can’t transition from apartheid to a new constitutional dispensation without a fundamental moral re-orientation,” said Tyobeka.

He further said that is why he supported former Deputy Minister of Department of Basic Education (DBE), Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, to form the Moral Regeneration Movement. Tyobeka added that he also emphasised the need for improved accountability and transparency in financial management practices within the province.

“The Auditor General’s consolidated report on the national and provincial audit outcome for 2022/2023, reveals several challenges and shortcomings in financial management within the province. These issues are related to irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure and non-compliance with Supply Chain Management processes,” he said.

Tyobeka also emphasised the role of public administration as a catalyst for a developmental state. According to Tyobeka, without state capacity, a developmental state remains a pipedream.

“While lectures and discourses are critical in sharpening our minds, we also need to create innovative programmes that help and restore hope in our government.

“The NWU is committed to foster meaningful partnerships that have the potential to effect positive change within both the province and its broader geographical scope,” he said.

Tyobeka said the theme of the lecture was: – “Confronting unethical behaviour that undermines the fundamental objectives of the National Democratic Revolution – Nelson Mandela 1977”.

Meanwhile, some of the panellists include Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa, Reverend Thami Mbambo and Prof Kedibone Phago. The executive mayor of Mahikeng Local Municipality, Tshepiso Mphehlo and Member of Mayoral Committee for Infrastructure, Billy Davids, were part of the event.

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Eight people shot and killed in a tavern 

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By OBAKENG MAJE 

Eight people were allegedly shot dead in a tavern in Kanana Township, Orkney in the early hours of early Saturday. The suspects reportedly arrived at the tavern looking for Basotho, then randomly fired shots and instantly killed seven people. 

North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the eight people died in hospital. He said the suspects killed six women and two men, while several others were injured. 

“The suspects then took the CCTV system, cash from the till and snooker table. The suspects further robbed patrons of their cell phones and fled from the scene. The police are still combing through the scene. 

“The motive is yet to be determined and no arrest has been effected,” said Mokgwabone.

The North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi condemned the mass killing of eight people. Mokgosi said the preliminary investigation indicates that five men entered the tavern, refused to be searched at the entrance and a scuffle ensued. 

“On entering the tavern, lights were switched off and random shots were fired as some of the patrons scampered out. Twelve other people were seriously injured and are receiving treatment in hospital.

“Of the deceased, four are South Africans and two are from Mozambique and Lesotho respectively. We urge the police to follow all possible leads in the arrest of the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” he said.

Mokgosi further said they are saddened and extremely shocked by this incident, which left eight people dead. He added that they want to urge the police to do everything in their power to investigate this matter to its logical conclusion and bring to book all responsible for these dastardly acts.

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Seven suspects arrested for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

Seven suspects aged between 21 and 30, were arrested for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods, including a firearm belonging to an elderly man (65). The suspects were arrested in Klerksdorp on 25 and 26 July 2024.  

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Amanda Funani said three suspects (two women and a man) allegedly went to the victim’s place on 24 July 2024, at Elands Heuwel, Klerksdorp and pretended to be looking for a job. Funani said the suspects allegedly overpowered the victim, who was staying alone and severely assaulted him with an unknown object. 

“Furthermore, four other suspects entered and ransacked the house, looted some household items, then fled the scene leaving the old man lying down. The police were called by members of the community, who noticed the suspects leaving the victim’s place. 

“Sadly, the police found the victim dead at the scene. Ensuing investigations led to the arrest of two suspects on 25 July 2024, while trying to sell the victim’s belongings at the taxi rank. They allegedly led the police to other suspects, who were also arrested,” she said.

Funani added that all seven suspects are expected to appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on 29 July 2O24, for murder and possession of suspected stolen goods and unlawful possession of a firearm. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the incident, which he said is inhumane and uncalled for. Kwena applauded the Klerksdorp Detectives for the swift response in ensuring that alleged perpetrators are brought to book.

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Five suspected stolen vehicles recovered in North West  

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Picture: Some of the suspects arrested for robbery/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Four suspects were arrested for stealing five vehicles separately. The suspects were arrested during a disruptive operation conducted between 23 and 24 July 2024, in and around Klerksdorp by different Vehicle Crime Investigation (VCI) units. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the police recovered five vehicles. Mokgwabone further said in one of the cases, Hugo Stevenson (49), briefly appeared in court after being arrested at Colerviller, in Klerksdorp on 23 July 2024, for possession of a suspected stolen Chevrolet Aveo vehicle, which was reported stolen in June 2023. 

He added that the matter was postponed to 29 July 2024, for bail application.


“In Stilfontein, Nadjibo Bugimirabagabo (44) and Elvis Emanuel (age still unknown), were arrested for truck hijacking and kidnapping that was committed on N12 road, near Stilfontein earlier this month. 

“The truck was recovered together with groceries. The accused persons briefly appeared in court on 25 July 2024. They were remanded in custody until 1 August 2024, for bail application,” said Mokgwabone.

 
He said in another separate case in Klerksdorp, Rapuseletso Leepile (45), appeared in court on 25 July 2024, for perjury. Mokgwabone said this comes after Leepile allegedly opened a false case earlier this month that his Ford Fiesta was hijacked. 

“The matter against him was postponed until 6 August 2024, for further investigation. The vehicle is linked to a business robbery allegedly committed in Orkney earlier this month. The operation also resulted in the confiscation of Toyota Etios and Nissan NP 200 vehicles, which were found abandoned near a mall in Jouberton.  

“The preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicles’ engines were tampered with. In addition, the Toyota Etios was linked with the theft of a motor vehicle case reported in February 2023, in Roodepoort, Gauteng Province,” said Mokgwabone.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, thanked the police for the successes.

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Five people shot and killed in Rustenburg 

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By REGINALD KANYANE 

Five people were shot and killed in Phase 1, Freedom Park, outside Rustenburg on Saturday at approximately 10pm. The victims (four men and a woman) were found along the street with what appeared to be gunshot wounds on their heads. 

The North West police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said at this stage, there is no information regarding the suspects except that they fled the scene driving in a white Toyota Quantum. Mokgwabone further said according to information available at this stage, four of the victims were declared dead at the scene, while the fifth one, died at Job Shimankane Tabane Hospital.

“The motive of the incident is unknown and investigations are underway,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, instructed detectives to leave no stone unturned to ensure the arrest of suspects. 

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ANC welcomes the appointment of Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice

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Picture: The incoming Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya

By REGINALD KANYANE

The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the president of Republic of South Africa (RSA), Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to appoint the Deputy Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa effective 1 September 2024.

ANC acting national spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi said Maya’s qualifications and judicial record, leadership qualities, experience as a judge in various courts, past leadership of the Supreme Court of Appeal, and current role as Deputy Chief Justice make her well-suited to lead the judiciary in South Africa.

“Through upholding the principles of judicial independence and integrity, the Deputy Chief Justice has played a crucial role in maintaining the credibility and trust in the judiciary.

“This has been vital for the rule of law and the

functioning of democracy in South Africa, ensuring that the judiciary remains a robust check on the other branches of government,” he said.

Godlimpi further said by the end of her tenure in the Supreme Court, Maya had delivered over 200 reported judgments. He added that Maya wrote the first recorded Supreme Court of Appeal judgement in isiXhosa on the dispute about the language policy of the University of South Africa.

“(AfriForum v Chairperson of the Council of the University of South Africa). The Chief Justice is the Head of the Judiciary in both administrative and ideational terms.

“This means that Maya is now charged with the task of overseeing the entire judicial apparatus and leading South Africa’s apex court, the Constitutional Court, in progressively evolving our country’s legal jurisprudence,” said Godlimpi.

He said Maya exemplifies the belief that access should hold both jurisprudential and practical significance, her principles are built on a dedication to serving the people. Godlimpi said Maya will be the first woman in South Africa to be appointed Chief Justice, affirming the ANC’s commitment to gender equality and advancing women’s leadership across all sectors and societal leadership structures.

“We wish her a great tenure and offer her our unyielding support and commitment,” said Godlimpi.

Meanwhile, Ramaphosa spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya said the president has in terms of Section 174(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, appointed Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa. He said Maya’s appointment follows Ramaphosa’s consultation, in accordance with constitutional prescripts, with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

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NWU ready for the 2024 Varsity Football tournament

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Picture: Head coach of the NWU men’s football team, Nkululeko Malgas

By PHENYO MOKGOTHU 

As the 2024 Varsity Football tournament approaches, the North West University (NWU) is gearing up for a strong performance in both the men’s and women’s competitions. In their eighth week of preparation, the men’s team is showing promising signs of readiness under the guidance of coach Nkululeko Malgas.

The women’s team, led by head coach Alfa Dolopi and team captain Hlalefang “Castro” Moledi, is also set to compete.

Reflecting on the men’s preparation, Coach Malgas says the team’s hard work is paying off and they performed well during a practice game against the National First Division’s Orbit FC in Rustenburg.

“However, there is still work to be done to reach peak performance. I am grateful to assistant coach Lindani Nkabinde for helping me integrate into the team’s culture and recommending talented players from the regional league. This collaboration has been crucial in shaping the current squad,” he adds.

Malgas says he is confident that the players are mentally ready for the tournament.

“The men’s team will play their first game at home against the University of the Free State, a match they are eager to win. The support from the local community has been a significant motivator, with high expectations from fans who fill the stadium in Mahikeng. 

“One player to watch is Lucky, who has great potential and may attract scouts’ attention.”

The women’s team is also confident in their readiness for the tournament. Coach Dolopi says the team is mentally and physically prepared and aims to build on their performance at the recent University Sports South Africa tournament.

“We have been focusing on improving tactics, addressing weaknesses and enhancing overall performance. The players have shown dedication in their training, which has been key to their readiness for the upcoming tournament,” she adds.

Team captain Moledi says she is excited, and that they worked hard to be ready for the Varsity Cup.

“We want to make a significant impact in the tournament, and we know we carry the hopes and support of the university community. Our journey reflects not only our physical and mental preparation, but also our unwavering dedication to the sport and to each other.”

As both the men’s and women’s teams head into the tournament, they are prepared to give their best and showcase their skills. The 2024 Varsity Football tournament promises to be a competitive and exciting event, with the NWU poised to make a strong showing. The players and coaching staff are ready to achieve remarkable results and create memorable moments for the university.

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Karate team excels in USSA tournament

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Picture: Karate team excels in USSA tournament

By LOVENESS HULWANE 

The North West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently hosted the national University Sports South Africa (USSA) Karate tournament at the Tsebonokeng Hall. The competition featured Clicker, Kata, and Kumite (fighting) categories, and the NWU team ranked sixth in Overall Team Performance among the 12 participating universities.

Individual achievements included Thomas Tsokolibane who showcased his exceptional skills and achieved first place in Kata, Lungani Shasha who topped the charts by winning first place in the men’s 55 kg Kumite, and Thando Memberi who fought valiantly to secure second place in the women’s Kumite.

Furthermore, Angie Phakathi excelled by securing joint third place in the 55 kg Kumite category, and Matlatsi Pheneus also earned a joint third place in the male’s Kata category.

According to the NWU team, the results of the competition highlight their robust performance in both semi-contact and full-contact categories.

Karate manager Joseph Mentor Matlhong says the event not only demonstrated the exceptional skills of their karate club members, but also reinforced the NWU’s commitment to excellence in sports and student development. “These achievements are a testament of the hard work and dedication of the students and everyone involved.”

He adds that the karate club offers many benefits to students, staff and the community, including physical fitness, self-discipline, self-defence skills and stress relief.

“Furthermore, participation in competitions adds further advantages, such as competitive experience, recognition and opportunities to network. Since students from across the NWU’s campuses participate, it also strengthens our university representation and fosters a sense of pride and unity among participants,” he adds.

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Baagi ba latofatsa molekgotlha ka go thapa ka losika 

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Setshwantsho: Badiri ba tsweletse ka go aga ntlo ya tshoganyetso

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

Baagi ba kwa Cokonyane, gaufi le Taung, ba latofatsa molekgotlha wa bone, Daisy Ipeleng ka go thapa la losika. Baagi ba, ba re Ipeleng o thapile batho ntle le go bitsa kopano. 

Seno se tla morago ga gore go nne le porogerama ya go aga matlo a tshoganyetso a le 16 kwa motseng o. Mongwe wa baagi, Obakeng Motlhale are, go thapilwe batho ka mokgwa o o sa siamang mo porogerameng e. Motlhale gape are, bontsi jwa batho ba ba agelwang matlo ga se ba ba a tlhokang. 

“Re tlwaetse fa go thapiwa batho, go iwa kwa kgotlheng mme go dirisiwe mokgwa wa huduwa. Gape, re tlwaetse go thapiwa batho ba le babedi mo karolong nngwe le nngwe ya motse. Jaanong, gona le matlo a a nang le dingwaga di feta 20 a a seng mo seemong se se siameng, mme beng ba one ba tlodilwe. 

“Beng ba matlo ao, ba lobaka ba ikwadiseditse matlo a di RDP. Fela ga go nko e tswa lemina, mme re makadiwa ke gore gona le batho ba ba ikwadiseditseng matlo ao malobanyana fa, mme ba agetswe,” Motlhale wa tlhalosa. 

Kemedi ya baagi, Itumeleng Matlhoahela are ba utlwile selelo sa baagi, mme ke nnete ga gwa thapiwa ka mokgwa wa tlwaelo. Matlhoahela are gape baagi bangwe bana le boipelaetso jwa gore gona le matlo mangwe a sa tsenngwang mo porogerama e, e tswa beng ba one ba a tlhoka. 

“Baagi ba kopa gore re agele batho botlhe ba ba tlhokang matlo, mme ke nnete gona le baagi ba ba tlhokang matlo a. Ka maswabi ga ba tsenngwa mo porogerama e. Gape, gona le selelo sa gore go thapiwa ka losika mo porogerama e, mme ke dingwe tsa dintlha tse re di rometseng kwa go molekgotlha gore a di rarabolole,” Matlhoahela wa tlhalosa. 

Kgabagare, Ipeleng are: “Bonnete ke gore fa go thapelwa porogerama ya matlo a tshoganyetso, ga go bidiwe kopano. Mong wa konteraka one a itletse ka batho ba gagwe, mme ka botho jwame, keile ka mo kopa gore a thape batho mo gae. 

“Jaanong, re ile ra thapa bangwe ba batho ba baneng ba emisitswe mo porogerameng e e neng e puagantswe ya kgaolo ya ditlhare. Ke ile ka isa maina a batho botlhe ba ba neng ka ikwadiseditse go agelwa matlo a tshoganyetso. Fela tshwetso ga ese ya rona, gore shupa gore ke mang a tshwanetswe ke go agelwa.” 

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