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Step into a world where art and luxury collide at the stunning @Sandton Hotel. Until 31 December 31 2024, visitors to the hotel can experience the powerful and thought-provoking sculpture exhibition, “Take a Stand”, which is part of the renowned Rooftop XI series by The Viewing Room Gallery. Curated by the talented duo, Sammy Muller …
Demarcation Board embarks on ward delimitation process consultations
In a deliberate effort to enhance understanding of demarcation processes, the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) is conducting consultations to educate stakeholders about the ward delimitation process.
According to the MDB, these consultations are held in all municipalities, targeting traditional leadership, ward councillors, ward committees, municipal officials, and other stakeholders.
Every five years, the MDB delimit wards preceding the Local Government Elections (LGE) in compliance with the Municipal Structures Act (MSA) 117 of 1998, as amended.
“The next LGE will be held in 2026. The plan is to hand over the final wards to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) towards the end of 2025.
“It should be noted that over the years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of voters resulting in a proportional increase in the number of wards in municipalities. Consequently, this results in a change in the configuration of wards in municipalities,” the MDB explained.
Wards are delimited by the MDB and entail the division of the whole geographic area of a municipality into smaller geographic areas, called wards.
According to the organisation, Schedule 1 of the MSA provides for certain procedures and criteria to which the MDB must comply.
The MDB must, amongst others, ensure that all wards in a municipality have approximately the same number of voters.
The number of registered voters in each ward, may not vary by more than 15% from the norm.
The norm is determined by dividing the total number of registered voters on the municipality’s segment of the national common voters roll by the number of wards in the municipality.
In a municipality with 30 000 voters and 10 wards, the average number of voters per ward would be 3 000. A variation of 15% can be added or deducted, resulting in a range of 2 550 to 3 450 voters per ward in this municipality.
The organisation said the education and awareness drive commenced in July 2024 to allow stakeholders sufficient time to understand the process and be able to participate effectively during the ward delimitation process and make informed inputs.
The agency will now embark on the nationwide public consultations to be conducted for the same purpose.
“Once the draft wards are drawn, intensive community consultations will be rolled out to obtain public views before the process is finalised.”
This process is expected to take place between March and April 2025.
Although, the consultations by way of public meetings are not legislated as per the MSA, it will be conducted to reflect MDBs resolve to enhance its public engagement processes.
“The MDB remains committed to driving meaningful public consultations and that all affected communities are empowered to actively participate in demarcation processes.
“This will enable them to make informed decisions that will enhance spatial democracy, access to economic opportunities and efficient delivery of services,” said Chairperson of the Board, Thabo Manyoni. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:09
Legal correspondence over finalisation of rail agreement exchanged
The department has committed to paying nurses a once-off allowance by the end of November
SAPS to 'deal decisively' with extortionists
National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has warned would be criminals that attacks on police officials will not be tolerated.
This after an attack on a member of the National Intervention Unit (NIU) at the base of the unit in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape who are investigating allegations of extortion in the area.
During a media briefing following a visit to the NIU base in Mthatha on Sunday, Masemola said police bare the duty to protect.
“[We] are not going to fold our arms and allow a situation where our dedicated and hardworking police officers who are entrusted with investigating and tracing hardened criminals are targeted.
“We will not tolerate attacks on our men and women in blue who are doing all they can to put a stop to incidents of extortion and all other crimes. We continue to urge our members to act decisively when faced with danger.
“Our members have a duty to protect themselves and also protect the communities which they serve,” he said.
The National Commissioner expressed concern that extortion cases in the area are “under-reported” but added that at least 38 cases had been reported since the set-up of an extortion hotline some two weeks ago.
“We are assuring communities that a dedicated team of investigators and members of specialised units that are attached to the task team dealing with extortion are working on this information with a view to build up cases and bring those responsible to book.
“[From] mid-August, we have deployed additional members to support and augment the available capacities in this province to deal with extortion decisively. To date, a lot of work has been put in through intelligence gathering on suspected syndicates linked to extortion and protection fees. Tracing operations, roadblocks, vehicle check points and searching of persons have been conducted.
“[We] are sending a strong message out there to those who are involved in all forms of crime and especially those gangs, criminals and syndicates involved in extortion. We are going to deal decisively with you. We will not hesitate to assert the authority of the state where necessary,” Masemola vowed. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 15:54
Two declarations inked in China to boost construction sector in SA
South Africa has signed two declarations of intent with the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and ASI Global during the State Visit to China.
South Africa’s Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson was one of the Ministers who joined President Cyril Ramaphosa on his State Visit to China to help achieve the vision of turning South Africa into a construction site, growing the economy and creating thousands of new jobs.
READ | SA to transform economy into manufacturing hub
According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the declaration of intent with the CCCC will work towards inviting the company to bid through the Public Management Finance Act (PMFA) in the construction and development of municipal works and public-owned buildings, fishing harbours and small ports.
Meanwhile, the declaration of intent with ASI Global will work towards the entity helping to develop construction talent in South Africa, as well as their professional development.
“Shortly after I was appointed as Public Works and Infrastructure Minister roughly two months ago, I vowed that I will aim to use the portfolio to turn the country into a construction site for us to grow the economy and create thousands of new jobs.
“The two declarations of intent signed during bilateral meetings in China, therefore, mark an important step towards us achieving that goal,” Macpherson said in a statement.
He described the CCCC and ASI Global as two “very important” players in their respective fields.
“The declarations of intent means that we can now invite them to make their expertise available to help develop our infrastructure and construction capabilities in South Africa, which will benefit the South African people across the country.”
The Minister said that in the months ahead, the department will build on these declarations of intent to further develop agreements towards unblocking any challenges which may stand in the way of launching construction projects in South Africa.
“I look forward to inviting the CCCC and ASI Global to join us as we work towards our dream of turning the country into a construction site.
“If we truly want to see rapid economic growth and job creation, the assistance of entities such as the CCCC and ASI Global, and many others across the world, will be crucial. I look forward to seeing how they work to help us improve South Africa. Let us build South Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:02
Justice Minister appears before Parliamentary Committee on VBS allegations
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, says she did not have any improper relationship with a contractor appointed by the Polokwane Municipality.
Last week, allegations surfaced in the media that Simelane, while she was Mayor of Polokwane Municipality in Limpopo, received at least R575 000 in a loan from a company intimately linked to VBS bank.
“I did not have any improper relationship with the contractor appointed by the municipality. Mayors are never involved…in procurement. The work of appointment of a service provider is the responsibility of the executives in the municipality.
“[Gundo Wealth] were appointed to provide services through a procurement process and this was done through committees of council. I did not receive any improper benefits from the contractor,” she said.
The Minister appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development to present clarity on allegations of impropriety on her part related to VBS Mutual Bank.
On the issue of whether or not there is a conflict of interest in her position as Minister and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) – which is prosecuting the VBS Mutual Bank saga – the Minister said the department plays no role in the decision-making of the NPA on who to prosecute or not.
“The office I hold does not have a direct relationship in instructing or convincing the NPA on how to act on their mandate.
“On the matter of taking the loan, I have dealt with the conflict of taking the loan. My understanding is that, if you ask for assistance on someone who doesn’t have a direct bearing or payment with the municipality, it is possible and I repaid it,” she said.
Simelane explained that the loan was for a business that would create wealth for herself and family after she leaves public office.
“Political positions by their very nature are short term and necessitated me to investigate a feasibility [study] of commencing such a business and a coffee shop seemed a feasible option so that I could create an employment opportunity for myself and my next of kin.
“I made this consideration…to ensure that I have an alternative when the public office life comes to an end,” she said.
The Minister said she had initially intended to partially withdraw from her retirement savings to fund the coffee shop but the “percentage of tax made the idea not feasible”.
“I asked Gundo for advice on any other idea on how best I could get finance and I was advised against the withdrawal of the retirement savings. In those discussions, Gundo then informed me and advised of a loan product that they have that I could access.
“In consideration for the options…there existed no conflict in my view is securing a loan from Gundo. I took a decision to proceed with the business,” Simelane said.
She added that the loan was repaid over three instalments.
Treasury steps in
Simelane told the committee that as the beginning of the decline of VBS Mutual Bank began to set in, National Treasury told municipalities that it was a breach of regulations to invest in mutual banks.
The Minister said she had already taken steps to ensure that the municipality withdraws from VBS, even before the directive from Treasury.
“[On] the advice of technical experts within the municipality, myself as the mayor, instituted the withdrawal of Polokwane Municipality from VBS. My attitude at the time was, if there was anything improper with regard to municipality funds, it must be stopped,” she said.
A Treasury-led investigation into municipal investments at the bank began after that – a process the Minister insists she “fully participated” in. This was followed by a report.
“That report didn’t spare me as the Executive Mayor from corrective measures. The…sanction to us was to either go to University of Pretoria or University of Witwatersrand which are the only ones that offers…a programme which is designed by National Treasury which is called Municipal Management [Programme].
“I took this corrective measure very seriously [and] commenced with my studies the following year when universities opened. I concluded this programme…after I was no longer a mayor, when I was a Deputy Minister,” she said.
Turning back to the matter between the municipality, her loan and VBS Mutual Bank, Simelane re-emphasised that she received no improper benefits.
“[I] affirm that one: there was no improper relationship. I requested for a loan, a loan was advanced.” –SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 12:14
Police seize counterfeit goods worth more than R94 million
The National Counterfeit Goods Unit has led multiple intelligence driven takedown operations that has led to the arrest of five people and the seizing of counterfeit goods worth more than R94 million.
In a statement on Thursday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said it along with its crime fighting partners, remain relentless in efforts to disrupt and dislodge illicit trade in counterfeit and contraband goods.
The teams comprised of various internal and external stakeholders that included, among others; SAPS members from various specialised units, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI – “Hawks”), Department of Home Affairs, South African Revenue Services (SARS), Traffic, Metro Police Departments and Brand Protectors as well as force multipliers such as private security companies.
On 16 August 2024, police found and seized counterfeit clothing and sneakers worth over R37 million in a self-storage facility in Gauteng’s Doornfontein.
On 25 August 2024, police also seized counterfeit goods that included sneakers, clothing, watches and backpacks worth more than R41 million at a shopping centre in Bellville, Western Cape.
“On 29 August 2024, counterfeit sanitary pads, deodorants and other consumables worth over R4.8 million were seized at a self-storage facility in Mayfair, Johannesburg.
“On the same day, counterfeit sanitary pads, hair extensions, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R9.3 million were seized at a small holding in Bredell, Kempton Park, Gauteng.
“The team also seized branded packaging, labels, machinery and other equipment used to manufacture counterfeit goods. Five Malawian nationals were also arrested for the contravention of both the Counterfeit Goods Act and the Immigration Act,” the statement read.
Furthermore, on 2 September 2024, police seized counterfeit shoe polish, deodorant, toothbrushes and other consumables worth over R2 million at a self-storage facility in Bonaero Park, Benoni.
“Police will continue to combat the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, protecting legitimate businesses and consumers who are subjected to substandard products that pose health and safety risks,” the SAPS said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 10:29
Over one thousand permits issued for hemp cultivation
A total of 1 110 permits have been issued for hemp cultivation since the declaration of hemp as an agricultural crop.
This follows the approval of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa in May 2024.
READ | Permits to change the lives of farmers
Briefing media on Thursday following Cabinet's regular meeting on Wednesday, Acting Minister in The Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa, said Cabinet received a briefing on the progress on the development of the Cannabis Master Plan, which aims to provide a framework for the establishment, growth and development of the cannabis and hemp industry in South Africa, to contribute to economic growth, poverty alleviation and job creation.
The Master Plan is anchored on nine pillars, including Effective Regulatory Services; Sustainable Seed Supply Systems; Research and Technology Development; Producer Support Systems; Market Development; Enterprise and Supplier Development; Manufacturing and Product Development; Education and Training, and Communication and Awareness.
Ramokgopa said the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has initiated the process of drafting the regulations in support of Cannabis for Private Purposes.
“The Department of Health, through the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, has concluded consultations on changes to the Schedules of the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 1965 (Act 101 of 1965).
“The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) concluded situational and value chain analysis on the Hemp and Cannabis sector in South Africa. The dtic will soon commence consultations on the Cannabis Commercialisation Policy,” Ramokgopa said.
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has also developed two hemp varieties and with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), is currently undergoing a second season of seed multiplication to make it available for the 2025 planting season.
“In May 2024, the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development approved the Hemp Certification Scheme to regulate the varietal integrity and quality of hemp propagation material towards supporting the sustainable seed system of hemp. The DALRRD has commissioned research to the value of R124 million with the ARC, which focuses on Cannabis breeding for medicinal, fibre and other uses; Cannabis plant disease surveillance, indigenous germplasm collection and Cannabis seed system development.
“In Gauteng, in collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, 10 small, medium and micro enterprises were supported for product development. The DALRRD continues to consult provinces on commitments thus far.
"To improve the capacity of the department to monitor the cultivation of hemp by permit holders, the ARC developed a detailed training programme for inspection services,” the Minister highlighted. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 13:41
Owner of controversial Tormin mine is in business rescue
The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs applauds the progress achieved by the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel as it undertakes the process of considering electoral reform but emphasised the need for effective and proactive public consultation to enable broader societal participation.
The committee received a progress report from the panel including the development of a draft programme of action, adopting preliminary guiding principles and undertaking preliminary desktop research, and identifying thematic areas for research.
“While this is commendable progress, we must emphasise the importance of effective and meaningful public participation to ensure broader participation. Of most importance will be to ensure that even those in far-flung areas are given an opportunity to participate,” said Mr Mosa Chabane, the Chairperson of the committee.
The committee also persuaded the panel to extend the deadline for the public to submit their views on the issue to the end of October 2024 to enable the public to conduct further consultation and provide substantive inputs.
In addition, the committee welcomed the intention to partner with government entities such as the Pan South African Language Board to enable effective communication on the matter in different languages and the Government Communication and Information System to ensure extensive reach of the panel's messaging.
The committee also underscored the panel's responsibility to examine the current electoral system and conduct extensive research of other electoral systems to ensure broader options are presented to Parliament to consider.
The committee also emphasised that the panel must table before it a full programme with timelines, in the context of the legislated timelines in the Electoral Amendment Act of 2023. The committee also emphasised the need to manage time without affecting the quality of output the panel will produce.
Furthermore, the committee agreed that the panel's independence must be jealously guarded to ensure a credible report. The committee will, upon presentation of the report, undertake its own public participation processes to identify and agree on the best possible outcome.
During their constituency work, committee members committed to engage with their communities about the panel's work and the need for participation. “It is only through the participation of the people that a credible product will emanate from the panel. We thus urge the public to participate and contribute to charting a path for South Africa's democratic order,” Mr Chabane emphasised.
Meanwhile, the committee considered a letter it received from the Speaker of the National Assembly on the matter of the judgement delivered in the Western Cape High Court on the My Vote Counts NPC and the President of the Republic, which was delivered on 16 August 2024, on setting the upper limit for donations and the disclosure threshold for donations determined in Schedule 2 of the Political Parties Funding Act 2018. The committee resolved to finalise a draft motion for consideration by the house in its scheduled meeting of 10 September 2024.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The department says the Hawks are investigating the sustainable livelihoods programme but will not provide details
The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services today held an informative and frank engagement regarding correctional supervision and parole boards in South Africa.
The committee was briefed by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on the structure and functions, challenges, and successes, plans to address identified challenges, and progress in legislation to overhaul the parole system.
Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said the committee extensively discussed all the matters, with a key focus on medical parole. “The committee commends the presentation. Our questions and concerns were mostly covered. Some of the statistics on medical parolees and the way forward in terms of vacancies will be addressed to the committee in writing to further interrogate this matter,” she said.
The committee heard there are currently 52 correctional supervision and parole boards (CSPB) in the country, whose main function is to consider offenders for possible placement on parole and correctional supervision. The Correctional Services Act (CSA) provides that any sentenced offender may be considered for placement on medical parole by the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister. The Minister must establish a Medical Parole Advisory Board (MPAB) to provide an independent medical report to the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister.
The MPAB must make a recommendation to the National Commissioner, the CSPB or the Minister on whether it is appropriate to grant medical parole. The committee heard that the CSA provides a list of medical conditions for consideration by the MPAB when assessing an offender's medical parole application.
Regarding deaths of inmates while awaiting medical parole outcomes, the committee heard that during the 2023/24 financial year, 22 offenders died before their medical parole applications could be finalised. During the same financial year, 85 offenders had applied for medical parole, four of whom were released on normal parole, 43 of whom were recommended for medical parole, 13 were not recommended and 22 died prior to their applications process being completed.
“We have raised concerns. We noted that vacancies exist in some of these boards, which could be a contributing factor. The department will furnish us with further information we required,” Ms Ramolobeng emphasised.
Ms Ramolobeng further stated that some committee members had concerns about inmates who were granted medical parole as they were terminally ill, but more than a decade later they are still to be found functioning well in society.
The DCS said that statistics relating to this issue will be provided to the committee in writing. However, the committee was assured that the board reviewing such matters is expert in the health field. The DCS conceded that such exceptional cases do exist but maintained that the number is small.
“The department will provide us with the statistics of such matters, but they have assured us in the meantime that that figure is generally low. We will engage once we received the information requested,” said Ms Ramolobeng.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Minister Malatsi removes two USAASA Board Members
In a bid to restore stability and good governance at the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA), Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has removed two board members.
In a statement on Monday, the Minister said he informed Daphne Kula-Rantho and Boitumelo Mabusela of his decision to remove them from the board.
“I have removed the individuals, who are currently employed as civil servants, for failing to obtain approval and to provide evidence of permission from their employers to conduct additional remunerative work outside their official roles, as is required by law,” Minister Malatsi said.
The decision for their removal is in line with Clause 13 of the Governance Agreement, in relation to the Section 83 of the Public Finance Management Act that empowers the Minister to dismiss board members due to financial misconduct.
Minister Malatsi said that over the past few weeks, he has repeatedly engaged with both individuals and given them opportunities to submit evidence which would indicate that they have upheld the prescripts of the law, however, they have failed to do so.
“I went further and engaged their employers to request proof of any approvals to earn additional renumeration, outside of their official roles.
“The responses indicate that no such approval was given. Prior to that, my predecessor Mondli Gungubele, proactively pursued the same request but was not provided such,” he said.
Furthermore, the Minister said the Auditor General has flagged that all board fees earned by the duo will be categorised as irregular expenditure and has indicated that the Department of Communications and Digital Technology (DCDT) should recover these monies.
To date the two individuals have collected R1 651 960.89 in board fees which they were not legally entitled to.
The breakdown is as follows:
• Ms Kula-Rantho received R1 288 966.87 over period March 2021 to July 2024.
• Ms Mabusela received R362 994.02 in board fees over period October 2023 to July 2024
“Let me be clear, we will not tolerate the abuse of public funds for the benefit of individuals who fail to uphold the laws of our country. I have instructed the Director-General of the DCDT to immediately initiate processes to recover the money.
“At the same time, I have instructed the DCDT to work with the acting CEO of USAASA, Luyanda Ndlovu, to conduct an independent investigation into on the veracity of allegations of abuse of state resources against another board member, Simphiwe Thobela,” the Minister said.
Minister Malatsi added that a process to replace the two board members will immediately be initiated in order to restore stability and strengthen good governance at USAASA, which is entrusted to promote universal access and universal service to every woman, man and child across the length and breadth of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:19
Invoices suggest Nketoana mayor spent R100,000 on a rented car in a single month
Former Prasa employee sentenced to 15 years in prison
A former Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (Prasa) employee, who was convicted in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Palm Ridge on Monday, has been sentenced by the same court today.
Daniel Mthimkhulu was charged with nine counts including fraud, uttering and forgery by allegedly misrepresenting his qualifications to Prasa upon his arrest in July 2015.
He claimed, among other things, to have acquired a Masters’ degree from the University of Witwatersrand, as well as a Doctorate in Engineering Management from the Technische Universitat Munchen (Munich Technical University) in Germany.
“As a result of the misrepresentation and fabricated CV, Prasa suffered prejudice in that his annual salary was unduly hiked from R1.6 million, as executive manager to heading the engineering services for a salary to the tune of R2.8 million,” said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks, on Tuesday.
The Hawks’ Serious Economic Offences Unit of the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation was instrumental in ensuring that Mtimkulu was ultimately convicted.
The Johannesburg High Court had on Friday, 15 March 2024, attached both immovable and movable properties belonging to the convict in terms of the confiscation order of section 18 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
The court further ordered that Mthimkhulu pay an amount of R5.8 million to Prasa to recoup the proceeds of crime.
The court on Tuesday sentenced Mtimkulu to 15 years imprisonment on count 1 and on count 4 and 8, the court sentences him to six years imprisonment served concurrently with 15 years’ imprisonment.
“This is one of the State Capture cases that has been finalised and the public can be assured that other State Capture cases on the DPCI table will be dealt with amicably,” said the unit.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya welcomed the sentence and applauded the hard work and efforts of the investigation and prosecution teams.
"This should serve as a lesson to would be fraudsters that crime doesn’t pay," reiterated Lt Gen Lebeya. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 14:05
IEC publishes political funding disclosure report
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has published the first quarter Political Funding Disclosure Report for the financial year 2024/25.
The report covers the period of 1 April to 30 June 2024.
It is the first report since the inauguration of the seventh parliament and administration following the successful hosting of free and fair 2024 national and provincial elections on 29 May 2024.
The commission in a statement on Monday lauded the political parties who made declarations in the reporting period even though there was no legal basis to do so.
“This act is indicative of these parties’ commitment to transparency in the management of their financial affairs. This can only bode well for electoral democracy in the country.
“Furthermore, the Commission wishes to ask the National Assembly to expeditiously finalise its processes and take a resolution on the thresholds in order for the President to gazette so that the lacuna in the regulations can be ameliorated.”
During this quarter, political parties declared a cumulative amount of nearly R200 000 000. The value of first quarter 2024/25 donation disclosure is comparable to the value of donations declared during the fourth quarter of the past financial year.
“Totalling a colossal R189 950 829, this is by far the highest value of donations across all years and quarters since the introduction of the Political Funding Act, as amended. Once again, a positive correlation between the value of donations declared and the election season are demonstrated,” said the commission.
A total of 14 political parties declared donations during the first quarter of the year. These are:
1. ActionSA – R13 186 000
2. African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – R240 000
3. African National Congress (ANC) – R26 015 313
4. Build One South Africa (BOSA) – R12 877 709
5. Change Starts Now – R150 000
6. Democratic Alliance (DA) – R56 601 039
7. Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – R515 313
8. GOOD – R600 000
9. Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – R38 340 000
10. Independent Civic Organisation of South Africa (ISANCO) – R100 000
11. Patriotic Alliance (PA) – R6 649 900
12. Rise Mzansi – R33 895 000
13. South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA) – R400 000
14. uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) – R380 555
“While there were few first-time donors during the reporting quarter, a significant number of donors were repeat donors. Furthermore, many of the repeat donors made significant donations across several political parties, targeting mainly new or recently established political parties.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:51
KwaZulu-Natal, Durban: Clermont Township, once a middle income township and thriving community, has descended into chaos as crime and violence grip its streets. On 25 January last year, three people were shot dead on Zazi Road, near Pinetown. The victims, two men who sold cow heads for a living, were killed at their roadside stalls, …
Institutionalisation of lifestyle audits improves in the public service
The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) says the institutionalisation of lifestyle audits in the public service continues to improve with 147 out of 160 national and provincial departments finalising their lifestyle audits by the end of July 2024.
Addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday, the department’s Chief Director of Public Administration, Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance Unit, Dr Salomon Hoogenraad-Vermaak, reported that 191 senior managers or Senior Management Services (SMS) members were referred for investigations.
“These SMS members are from seven national departments and 20 provincial departments. The investigations include conflicts of interest but also includes serious allegations of unexplained wealth and conducting business with the state,” Hoogenraad-Vermaak said.
He said the DPSA was awaiting information on 39 SMS members in national departments and 31 SMS members in provincial departments.
“These departments will be issued with non-compliance letters.”
The Public Administration Ethics, Integrity and Disciplinary Technical Assistance Unit (PAEIDTAU) provides support to departments with training on lifestyle audits. The unit was assisted in developing material by the World Bank, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the Strengthening Ethics and Integrity Program and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
Hoogenraad-Vermaak said during the Public Service Month, held in September, various sessions will be conducted regarding departmental investigations.
“Discipline management is a decentralised function, meaning departments are responsible for the management of their own disciplinary cases and that the DPSA can not interfere in that.
“However, the PAEIDTAU is supporting departments with discipline management, as the unit has a mandate to set norms and standards on discipline, to build capacity within institutions to initiate and institute disciplinary proceedings into misconduct, to strengthen government oversight of discipline and to provide technical assistance and support to institutions in all spheres of government regarding disciplinary matters relating to misconduct in the public administration,” he said.
The department reminded public servants that it was a criminal offense for public service employees to conduct business with the state.
It warned that any public servant found guilty of such offenses was liable to a fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years or both.
Regulation 13 (c) of the Public Service Regulations, 2016, prohibits public service employees from conducting business with an organ of state. Section 8 of the Public Administration Management Act, 2014, criminalises the conducting of business with the state for public administration employees and for special advisors.
The recently launched PAEIDTAU is a Chief Directorate within the DPSA which monitors the implementation of this prohibition and provides implementation support to departments.
In July 2020, the Ministers of Police, Justice, and Correctional Services and Public Service and Administration met with the Directors-General from their departments in order to devise strategies to eliminate the challenge of employees doing business with the state.
An agreement was reached that a multi-departmental team, consisting of DGs and senior management from these departments be established to ensure the implementation of this prohibition.
PAEIDTAU’s mission is directly aligned with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2020-30 (NACS), which aims to, among others, enhance governance, oversight, and consequence management in the public administration. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 09/02/2024 - 13:40
An assault on SAPS is an assault on the state – Acting President
Acting President Paul Mashatile says any attack on the South African Police Service (SAPS) is an assault on the state itself and that those responsible for such acts, equivalent to treason, must face decisive action.
He was speaking at the SAPS National Commemoration Day at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday.
Government honoured the 39 women and men in blue who died in the line of duty between April 2023 to March 2024. Their names have been engraved on the SAPS memorial wall at the Union Buildings as a symbol of gratitude for the sacrifices made in serving and protecting the nation.
“An assault on SAPS is a direct attack on the state, and we must take action against individuals who perpetrate this crime, which is equal to treason.
“[National Commissioner] General Fannie Masemola, police officers must not die with their service firearms on their holsters when criminals refuse to surrender and start firing at police. When a shootout ensues between police and criminals, police have a duty to protect their lives, as well as those of their colleagues and all community members,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile acknowledged that being a police officer was one of the most dangerous occupations and one may feel anxious knowing that they may leave their family for work and never return.
“In your defence, you must show criminals that you are in charge. You must act decisively, using proportionate force in line with the threat you are facing according to legal provisions. You must intensify your efforts to guarantee that you defeat crime.
“Minister Mchunu, we must make sure the police have enough tools to support their counterattack against criminals. We also need to find a balance to address the major issue of an increasing population, which police recruits simply cannot keep up with,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile said the country must strive to attain the United Nations' suggested ratio of one police officer for every 220 persons. He said the police-to-population ratio in South Africa has recently increased, rising from about 1:353 in 2014 to 1:427 in 2023.
He told the police officers gathered at the Union Buildings that the 39 members being commemorated had entrusted them with a significant duty to carry on the baton and guarantee peace and order.
“May you never tire of serving your nation by working harder to imprison all offenders in honour of your fallen colleagues. In the honour of these gallant crime fighters, you must remain unshaken in your resolve to keep our communities safe. May you uphold the integrity of the badge and relentlessly strive to bring those responsible for any police officer's death to justice,” he said.
Acting President Mashatile said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, commonly known as the Hawks, had arrested 18 suspected police killers between April and June this year.
Twelve of them were convicted and sentenced to a cumulative 139 years imprisonment. The court sentenced one of the killers to life in prison.
The Hawks’ work is ongoing to bring justice to the families who lost their loved ones in the fight against crime, he said, adding that other cases are pending in court and that he hoped they would receive harsh sentences.
“Of grave concern is the fact that, since 2021, inclusive of today, we have commemorated a total of 140 police men and women who lost their lives in the hands of criminals while performing their official duties.
“This number is alarmingly high, especially considering that these are men and women who have the potential to lead the future SAPS to a crime-free South Africa,” Acting President Mashatile said.
The Acting President emphasised that it was imperative for a collaborative approach to resolving internal challenges, including low morale among members, SAPS members involved in criminal activities, and ageing infrastructure, in order to enable the police to fulfil their constitutional obligations.
“Fighting crime should not only be the SAPS responsibility; communities are expected to work with the police to fight criminal activity, protect their properties, and help identify criminals.
“Criminals are humans who live in our communities, and residents know where they live. As a result, we urge all community members to inform the police of criminals' whereabouts to enable them to promptly arrest all criminal elements in our communities,” he said.
Mashatile called for the strengthening of Community Policing Forums (CPF). – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 09/01/2024 - 12:53
KwaMashu Christian Care Society has not been paying bills. Now water has been cut off.
SIU to investigate Eskom contracts
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in nine Eskom contracts.
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the corruption busting unit to probe the power utility’s affairs.
The SIU said it will investigate the following contracts:
• The procurement of and contracting for coal from Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited for coal supplied by Optimum Coal Mine (Pty) Limited and the Brakfontein Colliery Mine.
• Procuring and contracting for coal information technology services under a master services agreement concluded with T Systems International GmbH.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services related to software licence and support agreements concluded with SAP South Africa (Pty) Limited.
• Procurement of and contracting for coal services concerning Task Order SM008 for “capital scrubbing”
• The procurement of and contracting for coal security services from Combined Private Investigations (Pty) Limited.
• The procurement of and contracting for coal forensic investigation services from Kapditwala Incorporated, trading as Dentons South Africa.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services from Cutting Edge Commerce (Pty) Limited (formerly Leonardo Business Consulting).
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R1.68 billion for coal from Optimum Coal Mine to Hendrina Power Station, which pre-payment was later changed to a guarantee.
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R659 million to Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited.
“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by Eskom or the State. The investigation will encompass any unlawful or improper conduct by Eskom officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties.
“The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 March 2006 and 30 August 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 March 2006 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” the SIU said.
Meanwhile, the unit said the proclamation authorising it to investigate allegations at the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform has been amended.
“The amendment results from the SIU’s investigations, which revealed that the SIU needs to investigate further areas that the existing proclamations did not cover. The SIU requested a Proclamation amendment in terms of time and focus areas,” the unit said.
The amendment additionally authorises the SIU to investigate the acquisition by the Department or beneficiaries of:
• the Bekendvlei, Nirwanda, Wonderhoek, Mont Piquet, Appelkloof and Rietvlei farms.
• Mike's Chicken (Pty) Limited, immovable assets and animals for Project Harmonie, Project Uitkyk and Project Dipalemo.
• Shares in Bambanani Fruits BEE (Pty) Limited regarding the Department's Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy or the Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development Policy and identifying, selecting and appointing strategic partners and beneficiaries.
“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State.
“The investigation will encompass any unlawful, improper or corrupt conduct by Department Officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties. Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority [NPA] for further action,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 13:06
Pesticides which are banned in Europe are still exported to developing countries
The Portfolio Committee on Social Development has resolved to defer the Children's Amendment Bill to the Department of Social Department to allow it to redraft the 126 clauses the previous committee did not process.
That previous committee passed only 12 foster care-related clauses so that Parliament and the department could meet a North Gauteng High Court deadline. The department will redraft these clauses, taking into consideration the substantive submissions and proposals made by stakeholders and the public during the committee's public participation process on the bill.
The previous committee had resolved that the bill be introduced as a committee bill by the 7th Parliament committee. However, after receiving legal advice from the Constitutional and Legal Services Office on the development, drafting and legislative processes of committee bills, as well as the implications of the Constitutional Court's judgement on Section 40 of the Children's Act, the committee resolved that the department is best placed to redraft the bill due to Parliament's capacity constraints to develop policies that will substantiate the bill.
The submissions received contained new proposals that require extensive policy development on issues that include the safe abandonment of children (baby savers), corporal punishment, new proposals in relation to the rights of unmarried fathers (a traditional perspective) and children's right to privacy on digital platforms.
The department's legal advisor informed the committee that since the time the previous committee took a decision not to process the bill, many new issues have emerged in the space of intercountry adoptions, baby savers and the rights and responsibilities of unmarried fathers, which require the department to rethink its position on provisions it made previously on the bill. Even if Parliament had passed the Bill, the department would have to amend it again.
The committee agreed that the timeline of the processing of this Bill would receive priority oversight.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.