Ramaphosa to visit troubled North West town after ANC election win

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Fikile Mbalula says the ANC will send President Cyril Ramaphosa to Mamusa to thank its residents for their loyal support and as part of its path to 'self correction'.Fikile Mbalula says the ANC will send President Cyril Ramaphosa to Mamusa to thank its residents for their loyal support and as part of its path to ‘self correction’.

Image: IHSAAN HAFFEJEE

The ANC has promised to send President Cyril Ramaphosa to the troubled Mamusa local municipality in the North West despite retaining power in Wednesday’s by-elections.

Party elections head Fikile Mbalula announced on Thursday that after consultation with secretary-general Ace Magashule, the president would be deployed “to thank the people of Mamusa”.

In addition, a programme would immediately be rolled out “that will answer to mismanagement of the municipality and accelerate service delivery as a form of reward for the loyalty and support we have received from our people”.

The entire council of Mamusa was dissolved last year due to dysfunction and corruption, but the ANC has nevertheless remained in charge, retaining eight of the nine wards.

Mbalula said the decision to dissolve the Mamusa council and seek a fresh mandate from the electorate was a practical demonstration of the ANC’s renewed vigilance to deal decisively with “populist tendencies that undermine service delivery”.

“We took this hard decision prepared to risk losing power in order to serve people better and do what is right,” he said.

But despite the electoral victory, Mbalula said the party was not in celebration mode. “We understand the message of the voters to place service delivery above all else. To this extent, in our continued January 8 celebrations rolling out programmes to provinces, we intend to answer to the request of the people of Mamusa for the president of the ANC to come to their region and to the North West province.”

Mbalula said this was part of the party’s path to self correction and the ANC committed to put the people of Mamusa first before individual and self-serving interests.

“The infighting among our own councillors effectively undermines service delivery and distracted the municipality from focusing on critical issues such as growing the revenue and improving the lives of people.

“We have learnt the hard lessons about the vigilance needed to stop lawlessness, greed and selfishness taking root,” he explained.

Expressing confidence in the incoming council, Mbalula said the ANC would govern decisively and focus on service delivery.

“Councillors will focus on critical issues like water, scarcity of water, sanitation, potholes and general service delivery, which is what people vote for.”

Source: http://www.sowetan.co.za

A man nabbed for a church leader’s murder

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Sello Lehari welcomed the arrest of a suspect (23) in the murder case of Roman Catholic Church leader, Rev Joseph Hollanders.

Hollanders’ body was discovered at a missionary house in Bodibe village near Lichtenburg on Monday. North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said police in Itsoseng arrested a man for the alleged murder of Hollanders (83), whose body was discovered at his house within church premises at about 13:45 on Monday.

“According to information available at this stage, reports suggest that the victim’s body with hands and feet tied-up was found by a community member who alerted the police.

“Since the incident was reported, the police have been working around the clock and managed to arrest the suspect on Wednesday night, which is two days after the incident was reported,” Myburgh said.

She said the suspect was arrested at his home in Bodibe and a cellular phone allegedly belonging to Hollanders was found in his possession. Myburgh further said the suspect is expected to appear at Itsoseng Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena congratulated the investigating officers for ensuring that the perpetrator was brought to book. He said the police will continue to work hard to ensure that all people are and feel safe.

Meanwhile, Lehari said: “The motive for this heinous criminal act is yet to be established and we call upon the police to speedily conduct a post mortem to determine the cause of death. We send our heartfelt condolences to the family of the bereaved and the church members Hollanders was ministering.

“I was so disturbed to hear of this sad news. The death of Hollanders is a great loss to you, me, elderly people, children, youth and the entire society. My sympathy goes particularly, to his family, the churches, the community of Bodibe and surrounding villages as well as the society in general.”

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Ramaphosa calls for abolishment of the country’s mud schools

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Picture: (Courtesy: http://www.mg.co.za)

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the abolishment of mud schools in the country.

Ramaphosa, who addressed the Basic Education Lekgotla at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng, on Thursday, said the time had arrived for mud schools to be a thing of the past.

He called for the intensification of the provision of appropriate structure, infrastructure, sanitation, water and electricity supply to all schools.

“We must ensure that the mud schools of yesteryear are forever banished to the past and are in the dustbins of our history and that all our children go to toilets in safe and hygienic conditions. We must ensure our schools are free of violence, drugs, dangerous weapons, bullying, gangsterism, sexual abuse and sexual harassment,” he said.

Complaints

The president encouraged teachers to ensure that all pupils can read and write at an early age. He encouraged teachers to also read in order to encourage others.

“All our learners have to be able to do a whole number of things related to those tests. They should be able to read for meaning by their tenth birthday. Our Mathematics and Physical Science pass rates should be comparable with, if not better than, nations of similar size and budget.”

He said he received complaints from citizens that Early Childhood Development (ECD) was missing from basic education and he is now satisfied that this will be rectified.

“I am happy that our basic education is on the rise,” he said.

He congratulated the class of 2019 for achieving outstanding results.

“In many ways we have shown that together, if we work hard, hard work pays off. This year, we were able to touch 80% and go beyond. Those are absolutely wonderful results and [we] say to everyone who played a role – well done.

“The problem with success is that it has to breed further success. And now that you have touched that Holy Grail, it means that you have to keep on doing so. Next year we are expecting way beyond what we achieved.

“In achieving these results, many schools had to overcome a number of challenges that are imposed by resource constraints, protests we had in our communities over a number of issues and challenges that many schools and communities had to face, like alcohol and drug abuse and many social ills,” he said.

Ramaphosa mentioned Ribane Laka High School in Mamelodi, Tshwane, which achieved a 97% pass rate against all odds.

He encouraged all other schools to emulate the methods applied by the school and especially the collaboration of parents and teachers in Saturday lessons, which have been credited for the school’s success.

“To improve the foundational skills of our young people, particularly numeracy and literacy, especially reading for meaning… It is for these reasons that reading for meaning is declared an apex priority.

“Research has shown us that to thrive in the changing world, our learners require a new breath of skills. These skills are still rooted in academic competency such as literacy, numeracy and science, but also include teamwork, critical thinking, communication, persistence and creativity,” Ramaphosa said.

Source: http://www.news24.com

FF Plus claims victory over DA in Schweizer-Reneke, EFF strengthens hand in Mamusa by-elections

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The FF Plus has taken a ward off the DA in the by-elections in Mamusa, which includes the town of Schweizer-Reneke, the party has said.

While the official results had not yet been released by the IEC at the time of writing, FF Plus leader Pieter Groenewald claimed victory in Ward 9 – which was held by the DA before the municipality was put under administration – after Wednesday’s by-elections.

He said in a tweet that his party had garnered 797 votes, compared to the DA’s 222.

In a statement on Facebook, he said this was the third ward that the FF Plus had taken from the DA in North West.

“The FF Plus’s number of votes has grown by 87.5% since the 2016 municipal elections, while the DA lost 65% of… votes,” he said.

Groenewald said the FF Plus’s victorious candidate, Nico Killian, was an experienced councillor who would do everything in his power to serve the interests of Ward 9’s citizens.

The DA’s showing in by-elections since the May 2019 elections has been dismal, and its handling of alleged racism at a Schweizer-Reneke school about a year ago is believed to be one of the reasons it lost support to the FF Plus, in particular in the North West, according to a party report.

The ANC appears to have held onto the other eight wards in Mamusa, but elections analyst Dawie Scholtz tweeted that the EFF had made massive inroads, upwards of 15% in some wards.

It is expected that the Electoral Commission of South Africa will release the official results later on Thursday.

ANC head of elections Fikile Mbalula will hold a press briefing on the Mamusa results at noon on Thursday.

Source: http://www.news24.com

Mokgoro: ‘Lekalakala, you’re not the man for the job’

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Picture: Former North West Health Department HoD, Dr Thabo Lekalakala

By REGINALD KANYANE

The North West Premier, Prof Job Mokgoro announced that he has relieved Dr Thabo Lekalakala off his duties.

The controversial Lekalakala was the Head of Department (HoD) at Health. The North West Provincial government spokesperson, Vuyisile Ngesi said Lekalakala was found guilty on five charges.

“Lekalakala faced allegations of gross misconduct. In the light of the verdict presented before Mokgoro by the Presiding Officer, Mokgoro has taken a decision to dismiss Lekalakala from employment,” Ngesi said.

Embattled Lekalakala allegedly paid the Gupta-linked company, Mediosa more than R30 million before they can effectively perform any duties. The company provided the department with mobile clinics in rural areas.

The former HoD is also facing criminal charges after he allegedly misrepresented his qualifications in his curriculum vitae, while applying for the position back in 2014.

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Irate protesters destroy municipal offices, vehicles

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Picture: One of damaged vehicles at the Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality
By OBAKENG MAJE

Schools were disrupted during the first day of opening in Ganyesa village near Vryburg on Wednesday. This comes after residents of Ganyesa and Austrey embarked on a violent protest demanding a tar road. Some of the residents said they demand a tar road between Austrey and Ganyesa.

One of the community leaders, Norman Moncho said irked protesters allegedly stormed into the Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality offices and smashed windows, furniture and vehicles.

“Our residents are gnashing their teeth because of empty promises. They have aired their dissatisfactions many times but nothing was done. The 16km road was supposed to be constructed long time ago, however, that has not happened. So, we want to know what happened to the budget that was supposed to construct that road.

“The gravel road that links Austrey and Ganyesa is inaccessible and that affects our people’s livelihoods. Ambulances cannot access the area on time and that puts many lives at risk. We have people who lost their loved ones especially pregnant women while waiting for help,” Moncho said.

Picture: Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality building damaged

Kagisano Molopo Local Municipality mayor, Virginia Mere said: “We strongly condemn what happened following the destruction of municipal properties by number of individuals who seemingly got out of the bus with wooden walking sticks and other dangerous ammunition.

“The bus is usually travelling from and between Austrey, Moswana and Goodwood villages to and from Vryburg on daily basis. It is clear that those people had the intention to vandalize and destruct as they were in possession of steelworks after they entered the municipal building.”

Mere further said the protesters allegedly broke the aluminum doors and windows at the municipality. She added that municipal vehicles were also damaged during the protest.

“The protesters also threw bottles and stones at municipal officials. The incident forced us to close doors of the municipality and the communities will be notified on when services will resume,” she said.

Meanwhile, the North West Education department spokesperson, Elias Malindi urged community members to refrain from disrupting schools during protests.

“We condemn the disruption of schools as that has a negative impact on our learners. We understand our communities’ frustrations and we urge them to use proper channels to raise their dissatisfactions.

“However, everything went well during the first day of schooling in various schools across the province. The teachers are ready for 2020 academic year and we are planning on improving our marks this year,” Malindi said.

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Motsweding woman raped at gunpoint 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

Northern Cape police call on community members to be observant when traveling between Motsweding village and Rietvale near Modderriver. It is alleged that a woman was raped by a gun-wielding man wearing a balaclava on 1 January 2020.

Northern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Sergio Kock said: “The man allegedly threatened her with a firearm and dragged her into a nearby field where he raped her. He allegedly fled the scene afterward and his identity is still unknown.

“The suspect is believed to be between the ages of 20-30, slender built and tall. The community is advised by the police to be observant and keep safe. Anyone who may have information is encouraged to contact Sgt Moses Morris from the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit on 082 302 0473.”

He said the investigations on the continue.

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MEC Mohono: ‘We encourage young people to be involved in agriculture’

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Picture: (North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development department, Desbo Mohono)

By REGINALD KANYANE

Young Farmers lauded the North West Agriculture and Rural Development (NWARD) department for hosting a fruitful workshop at Schweizer Reneke on Monday. As unemployment reached sky-high especially among the youth, the North West MEC for Agriculture, and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono said her department’s main objective was to get the youth involved in agriculture as part of curbing unemployment and creating job opportunities.
As unemployment reached sky-high especially among the youth, the North West MEC for Agriculture, and Rural Development, Desbo Mohono said her department’s main objective was to get the youth involved in agriculture as part of curbing unemployment and creating job opportunities.

Mohono said they celebrated Farmer’s Day at the area and targeted farmers who are already in the farming industry and those aspiring to be part of agriculture. She further said it was imperative for young people to be part of this initiative.

“It is significant for young people to attend these empowerment sessions. It is through learning platforms such as these ones that young farmers can meet and interact with their peers and industry experts, in order to share farming ideas, experiences, and best-farming methods.

“The department’s contribution will not only be limited to financial support, but is also geared more towards training, capacity building in terms of skills development and giving information in order for the youth to have the know-how of running successful agricultural businesses,” said Mohono.

She added that there is an urgent need for today’s young farmers to look beyond their local farming areas for advice and inspiration when planning for the future. Mohono said they are quite positive as the department that information packaged for sharing during these farmer’s day will be of great help.

“It is clear that we have an up-and-coming generation of hard-working, young South African agri-enterpreneurs. With the passion they have shown, unfettered commitment to the task and of course with the department’s guidance, I believe this will result in awesome opportunities and growth.

“The department has programs designed uniquely to cater for youth and to assist people with interest in agriculture and rural development projects. Farmer’s Day’s main objective was to share and offer the most up-to-date information and enhance young farmers’ capacity to run their farms as efficient businesses,” she said.

One of the guests, Tshepo Bloem who is a renowned Bonsmara Stud Breeder from Vryburg also shared the same sentiments. Bloem encouraged participants to use platform such as Farmers’ Day to equip themselves with knowledge and use it to change the economic and social development of the province and the country for the better.

“We would like to encourage the youth, in particular, to start treating agriculture as a business. Agriculture is a business and you must learn fast from experiences you get where agriculture has been the foundation for fast-paced economic growth,” he said.

Participants were also encouraged to read and familiarise themselves with the new trends in the sector. After the session, most of the participants said they found the information to be valuable and can practically apply these practices back to their farms.

One of the farmers who attended the initiative, Odirile Monchwe said: “The session was informative and relevant to me. I am a sheep and cattle farmer from Nooitgedacht village outside Schweizer Reneke and there is a lack of information this side. So, we appreciate the fact that government takes interest in the youth to be involved in agriculture.”

Another aspiring farmer, Meikie Moloko from Glodinah village said she was intrigued by the bee farming and land care presentation. Moloko said: “Firstly, let me thank the current leadership of the department for bringing this important government programs to us. Listening to my peers’ stories today was humbling and very informative.

“Now, I am thinking of taking advantage of opportunities in the bee farming sector. As I am going back home, I am sure something will come out of the inspiration and the knowledge I gained today.”

Communities are encouraged to visit agricultural local area offices placed in all municipalities across the province and the departmental website to access more information.

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Two nabbed for being in possession of dagga

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By REGINALD KANYANE

Two suspects briefly appeared at the Springbok Magistrate’s Court in Springbok for being in possession of dagga.

The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Capt Nomthandazo Mnisi said Thozama Maziyana (59) and Owen Kowa (37) were arrested after a tip-off during a joint driven operation consisting of DPCI Serious Organised Crime, Springbok Detectives and Springbok Visible Policing.

“The joint driven operation led to the arrest of the duo following a tip-off. The suspects were allegedly travelling in a bus carrying a bag full of dagga from Cape Town to Okiep.

“The team approached the suspects and found dagga to the street value of approximately R95 000. They were immediately arrested and charged according,” Mnisi said.

She said both suspects were granted bail of R500 each and the case has been postponed to 11 February 2020.

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‘WE’LL LEAVE NO STONE UNTURNED’: NW COPS VOW TO CATCH HEBRON KILLERS

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The bodies of the 68-year-old woman and her child were found in their house by her younger daughter over the weekend.

North West Police Commissioner Sello Kwena has condemned the killing of a mother and her daughter in Hebron.

The bodies of the 68-year-old woman and her child were found in their house by her younger daughter over the weekend.

Police said the mother’s body was found lying in a pool of blood in the living room while her daughter was found in a bathtub with her hands and feet tied up.

Police said during the discovery valuables, including a plasma television, DVD player and cellphones, were found missing from the house.

Kwena has directed law enforcement authorities to find the perpetrators of the crime.

Police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone said, “We will leave no stone unturned to ensure that those who committed this crime are tracked down and arrested. The commissioner has sent his heartfelt condolences.”

The commissioner has urged the community to remain calm and not to take the law into their own hands.

Source: http://www.ewn.co.za