MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) and Aberdeen residents demand that the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality urgently take steps to address a burnt-down house that has been left in a neglected and dangerous condition. The house in Van Riebeeck Street has been in ruins for years and poses a direct threat to public safety […]
The post Municipality needs to address dangerous building in Aberdeen appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
UN report confirms hundreds have starved to death despite International Court of Justice ordering Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the Palestinian enclave
Commercial property owners are challenging the City’s budget in court, but the mayor argues they are selectively interpreting the law
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) welcomes the decision by the Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) to institute an Article 154 intervention in the Buffalo City Metro (East London), following a special council meeting held on 6 August 2025. This intervention by Cogta arises from the metro’s persistent maladministration, financial […]
The post Article 154 intervention confirms ANC failure in Buffalo City appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Despite the Tshwane Metro’s debt relief programme, residents’ outstanding debt increased by more than R700 million in the previous financial year. The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) has always maintained that general debt write-offs foster a culture of non-payment. According to the fourth-quarter report by the Department of Finance, tabled at the latest council meeting, […]
The post Tshwane residents’ outstanding debt now exceeds R18 billion appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
People who fought for miners with TB or silicosis to be compensated have raised the alarm, but mining companies defend the process
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) chairperson of the Gauteng Legislature’s Committee on Environmental Affairs, Agriculture and Rural Development confronted the Mayor of the Mogale City Local Municipality, (Krugersdorp, Magaliesburg, Muldersdrift), Lucky Sele, about the total collapse of this once-prosperous area in the Cradle of Humankind. Mayor Sele appeared before the Committee on Tuesday to […]
The post Mogale City’s failure to protect and maintain infrastructure leads to total collapse appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
On Thursday, the Northern Cape Legislature debated the budget votes for the Premier and the Legislature. The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) voted against the Legislature’s budget and supported the Premier’s budget, albeit with serious reservations. The entire provincial government revolves around these two budget votes. The Legislature’s primary function is oversight of departments and […]
The post Northern Cape Budget Vote Debate: Freedom Front Plus tentatively supports Premier’s budget, votes against Legislature’s budget appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
(Budget Vote Debate: Presidency) Since its inception in 1994, the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) has been part of every Parliament, and has always maintained a constructive and positive approach. We will continue in this same vein, because we must find solutions to secure a better future for all. So, it is counterproductive when President […]
The post President needs to take note of Freedom Front Plus proposals to make South Africa a winning country appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) reproached the Gauteng Department of Health for its clumsy attempt to dismiss clinic doctors and then rehire them as service providers, despite a critical shortage of doctors at clinics and hospitals. During the Gauteng Legislature’s debate on the Department’s 2025/26 budget, the Freedom Front Plus expressed its disapproval of […]
The post Freedom Front Plus reproaches Gauteng Health Department for poor handling of clinic doctors’ employment appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) in Ekurhuleni notes the Ekurhuleni Metro’s admission that certain residents paid incorrect electricity charges on 1 July due to a technical error in the system. While the Metro has acknowledged the error and confirmed that corrections will take effect from 2 July 2025, the Freedom Front Plus remains concerned […]
The post Ekurhuleni should be held accountable for incorrect electricity charges appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
AfriForum brought the case to compel the Free State government to intervene in the failing municipality
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) is deeply concerned about the persistent increase in gender-based violence and rape in Mpumalanga, and demands urgent action from the relevant authorities. Mpumalanga’s residents – particularly women and children – live in constant fear due to the high incidence of sexual crimes and violence. The most recent crime statistics, […]
The post Freedom Front Plus demands urgent action to address growing number of gender-based violence and rape incidents in Mpumalanga appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Residents demand municipality fulfil its promises
Following two days of briefings from the Auditor-General and the Special Investigating Unit on the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA), Mr Songezo Zibi, has raised concerns with SITA's governance and performance failures, which adversely affect government effectiveness.
The SITA has for several years failed to achieve satisfactory audit outcomes or to adequately support various government departments, agencies and other public institutions. This has left them with a high number of vacancies, inadequate IT support, obsolete technology, faulty procurement processes and serious cyber security weaknesses.
“It is unacceptable that at a time when information technology is so critical to financial controls, governance and operational effectiveness, the sole agency tasked with supporting government is failing so dismally and for so sustained a period. Talk of modernisation in different areas, such as the police, will remain a pipedream if reliance is placed solely on the SITA,” said Mr Zibi.
The committee heard that while a new Board has been in place since February 2025, the agency still has critical unfilled vacancies such as a Chief Digital Officer. “We are going to invite the Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies to appear before the committee to explain the steps he is taking to ensure the SITA recovers to fulfil its constitutional mandate. The SITA's failures have become a serious financial and national security risk that should not be tolerated any longer,” he added.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
A reimagined version of the popular 2016 “The Fall” play is being staged at Joburg’s The Market Theatre until 4 May
Municipality has no immediate plans to move families living at the Masonwabe temporary relocation area in Gugulethu
President calls for holistic overhaul of policing
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a bold, coordinated, and community-driven approach to crime-fighting, describing policing in South Africa as being at a crossroads that demands urgent reform and collaboration from across all sectors of society.
The President was delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Policing Summit held in Ekurhuleni on Tuesday.
President Ramaphosa applauded the Ministry of Police for convening what he termed a “critical” gathering, which brings together government, civil society, business, interfaith groups, labour, and communities to reshape the country’s safety and security strategy.
“Safeguarding our nation’s safety and security requires that we are proactive, innovative and solution-oriented in our approach… Just as crime is an all-of-society problem, overcoming crime must be an all-of-society effort.
“In doing so, we must marshall our full support behind the hardworking men and women of the South African Police Service," the President said.
The President said crime has a direct impact on the economy, as it discourages investment, disrupts business activity and leads to increased security costs for companies.
He noted that social ills such as poverty and inequality, unemployment, lack of opportunity, patriarchy and misogyny, and broken family structures are just some of the issues that contribute to crime and criminality.
“Addressing crime without understanding its root causes is like a doctor treating a patient for a fever without diagnosing the underlying illness.
“It is therefore encouraging that this summit has as one of its key objectives adopting a more holistic approach to law-enforcement, encompassing not just the police but the entire policing system,” the President said.
The President emphasised that policing must be grounded in the Batho Pele principles of service delivery, which include respect, empathy, accessibility, and accountability.
He said that the policing terrain of today is complex and multi-faceted and the police strive to fulfil their mandate in the context of emerging threats.
These threats, he said, include transnational organised crime, illegal mining, extortion syndicates, the theft of economic infrastructure, money laundering and terror financing.
“And yet, even in this extremely challenging environment, the South African Police Service continues to register successes in fighting crime in its various operations,” the president said.
Restoring public trust
The President warned that restoring public trust in the police is critical to winning the fight against crime.
“We need to improve the relationships between the police and the communities they serve. We need to work to improve the morale of SAPS members, many of whom are battling heavy workloads, insufficient resources and outdated systems.
“Even as the SAPS budget has increased over the past ten years, the reality is that the number of police personnel has been declining while the country’s population has been growing,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa stressed that policing cannot succeed without the active involvement of communities.
He called for a stronger role for Community Policing Forums (CPFs), citizen empowerment, and partnerships with the private sector, which has already played a crucial role in equipping victim support centres and bolstering frontline capacity.
“We know that communities are the most potent resource for fighting crime. Crimes happen in communities and criminals are often known to communities.
“From this summit we need a clear plan on how to better involve communities in crime prevention and detection, and on harnessing the potential of CPFs in line with relevant legislation and regulations,” he said.
The role of technology and data
The President welcomed and backed the focus of the summit on exploring the role of technology in modern policing, investigation and intelligence.
“We need to harness modern technologies to support crime-fighting. Technology is particularly crucial when analysing crime trends and patterns. It is also valuable in empowering citizens,” President Ramaphosa said.
He further advocated for applying a socio-economic lens to crime data to better tailor responses for example, by examining links between substance abuse and robbery, or alcohol abuse and gender-based violence.
“Data plays a pivotal role in policing and law-enforcement. And we need to apply a socio-economic lens when analysing such data. The data may tell us, for example, about a community with a high prevalence of housebreaking and robbery, in which substance abuse is also rife.
“Understanding the connections revealed by this data should inform the approach to policing in that community. There is ample data on the linkages between alcohol abuse and the prevalence of gender-based violence,” the President said.
He added that a holistic policing approach would, for example, need to involve working with local authorities to enforce municipal by-laws for establishments selling alcohol.
As part of facilitating access to SAPS services, the President said it is encouraging that discussions are planned for how to leverage innovative digital platforms such as mobile apps, online reporting systems and virtual communication channels to improve the public’s interaction with the police.
“To turn the tide against crime, we need better collaboration among the different agencies in the law-enforcement space,” he said.
The President further highlighted that there is a proliferation of organised crime in South Africa, including the manufacture of illicit drugs, kidnapping for ransom and money laundering.
He said this is taking place alongside a growth in illegal mining, extortion in the construction sector, and the theft of public infrastructure.
Addressing corruption
The President urged police to stay away from corrupt activities, stressing that corruption has infiltrated every part of society, including the SAPS.
He said while prosecuting corrupt officers is important, it is equally crucial to instil a culture of honesty and integrity within the police service.
The President emphasised the need to strengthen the fundamentals of policing through ethics, accountability, and professionalism.
He expressed hope that the summit would focus on promoting ethical conduct, restoring public trust in law enforcement, and upholding the rule of law.
Key initiatives include protecting whistleblowers, implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and improving recruitment and training to attract the right calibre of candidates to the SAPS.
“If the SAPS is to fulfil its crucial mandate, we have to emerge from these few days with a clear plan on how to address the systemic deficiencies that are negatively impacting policing.
“As a country we owe the SAPS our full support. As government we remain committed to turning the tide against crime and to making our communities safer.
“It is our hope that the recommendations emerging from this summit translate into deeper collaboration, more effective methods and a promising future for policing in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 04/08/2025 - 13:57
366 views
Cost containment should not undermine service delivery - PSC
The Public Service Commission (PSC) says that while cost containment measures demonstrate fiscal discipline and prudent financial management, their implementation must be closely monitored to avoid inadvertently undermining service delivery.
“This is particularly crucial in essential sectors such as healthcare and education, where cuts to resources or funding could have far-reaching consequences for public well-being and long-term development,” said PSC Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya.
Addressing the media during the release of the commission’s Quarterly Bulletin titled: The Pulse of the Public Service for the period: 01 January to 31 March 2025, Gxoyiya said effective cost containment requires a balanced approach. This approach prioritises efficiency and savings without compromising the quality or accessibility of essential services.
“The PSC recognises the advantages of fiscal consolidation and cost containment, which include reduced waste in public finances and enhanced accountability,” the Commissioner said at Thursday’s briefing in Pretoria.
In addition, he said that excessive budget cuts could undermine the government's ability to fulfil its constitutional obligations.
“The PSC advocates for a balanced approach that combines financial prudence with investments in key areas essential for long-term growth and effective service delivery.
“The PSC remains committed to promoting constitutional values, advocating for equity and accountability, and ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and effectively for the benefit of all South Africans.”
Whistleblowers
Regarding strengthening whistleblower protection, Gxoyiya said a resolution was made for the establishment of the Whistleblower Protection House.
This hosting of the Whistleblowers’ Symposium emanated from the 2022 International Anti-Corruption Day celebrations which highlighted the challenges regarding the protection of whistleblowers and their families.
During the symposium, a resolution was made for the establishment of the protection house to support whistleblowers and to facilitate access to support, creation of awareness of whistleblowers’ plight, provide financial assistance, legal counsel and psychological support.
The protection of whistleblowers was identified as one of the high priority areas in the national anti-corruption agenda.
Gxoyiya said this initiative will require the amendment of the current legislation, adding that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is at an advanced stage in reviewing the Protected Disclosure Act. The Act provides procedures in terms of which any employee may disclose information relating to an offence or a malpractice in the workplace by his or her employer or fellow employees. The Act also provides for the protection of an employee, who made a disclosure in accordance with the procedures provided for by the Act, against any reprisals as a result of such a disclosure.
“The advent of democracy in South Africa promised a society that will be built on a human rights-based culture to ensure that the lives of ordinary South Africans are improved and protected.
“Section 195 of the Constitution outlines the basic Values and Principles governing public administration. These values should be the cornerstone upon which to build a public service that is ethical, responsible, responsive and accountable.
“Government and other role players agreed that corruption in South Africa and the killing of whistleblowers needs to be addressed collaboratively by all sectors of society as the efforts of whistleblowers contribute to building a capable, ethical and developmental Public Service that is responsive to the needs of the people,” Gxoyiya explained.
He added that the commission supports the initiatives of establishing the whistleblowers protection regime as it will enable the citizenry to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal.
“Fighting corruption is every one’s responsibility in the country. Active citizenship must take its rightful place in fighting against corruption and expose theft, fraud and maladministration through whistleblowing,” he said.
The commission has encouraged South Africans to report acts of corruption and maladministration anonymously through the National Anti-Corruption hotline on 0800 701 701 and by email at (complaints@opsc.gov.za).
Citizens can also do walk-ins at PSC offices nationwide where complainants can interact with professionals equipped to safeguard anonymous reporting. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 13:41
145 views
Minister refutes claims of interference in NPA's work
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has opened a criminal case to investigate a fabricated WhatsApp conversation falsely linking her to prosecutorial decisions at the National Prosecuting Authority.
This after a Sunday news report alleged that two Cabinet Ministers had instructed the National Prosecuting Authority to bring charges against Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Minister opened a case of fraud, impersonation and obstruction of justice at the Brooklyn Police Station in Tshwane on Sunday evening.
“I’ve [opened a case] because it’s important for us to protect [democratic] institutions and that are implementing our justice system. One of the critical institutions that must be protected for its independence is the NPA.
“We have seen previously how the issues of state capture have compromised our institutions to the point of collapse. I’m one of those that has committed that we will rebuild our institutions and that we allow them to function without fear or favour.
“That’s why it’s important for me to open this case because we cannot allow where, in the public domain, an impression is given that these institutions are compromised to the point that they cannot do their work,” she said.
The Minister emphasised that the “law must take its course in all aspects”.
“No one must be above the law. But most importantly, no one – including myself – must interfere with law institutions or any institutions that must do their work.
“We will not have political interference of any sort in the work of the NPA. I reassure South Africans of my commitment to fulfil my obligation and to abide by my oath of office,” Kubayi said.
The NPA has also rejected the news story – calling it “fake news” and reaffirmed its commitment to executing its mandate without fear, favour or prejudice.
“The current leadership of the NPA is on record to confirm that it has never been subjected to any executive interference in the discharge of its prosecutorial mandate, and this remains the position. The current leadership is beholden only to the constitutional mandate of the NPA and serves only the people of South Arica,” the prosecutorial body said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 03/31/2025 - 09:47
24 views
Kariega residents share their reflections on Human Rights Day
The residents of Kariega in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality have shared their thoughts on the significance of Human Rights Day, emphasising the importance of freedom, self-expression, and government accountability.
Speaking to SAnews, 17-year-old Luphumelo Hini from KwaNobuhle said Human Rights Day represented her ability to express herself freely and pursue her dreams without restrictions.
“Human Rights to me means that we are able to express ourselves in different ways, we are able to live our lives freely, we are able to follow and fulfil our dreams and do a whole lot of things that many people who do not have human rights and are not given freedom are not able to do,” Hini said.
She added that the presence of Deputy President Paul Mashatile at the event made her feel recognised.
“It means a lot for me for the Deputy President to come and address us because it means he acknowledges us, and he realises the importance of Human Rights Day. It just shows that he has the spirit of Ubuntu,” she said.
Similarly, 29-year-old Sinethemba Krweda expressed his appreciation for the Deputy President’s attendance, noting that young people are eager to learn about the government’s role in protecting their rights.
“We do have rights as people. The first right is that we are free and can move freely, unlike during the apartheid era. We are also able to study and further our education. We appreciate that the Deputy President is here so he can hear our concerns, particularly regarding the high unemployment rate among the youth,” Krweda said.
Speaking ahead of the main event, Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to improving the living conditions of communities as South Africa marks Human Rights Day.
Mabuyane emphasised that the day is not just about remembrance but also the tangible efforts made to transform people’s lives.
“To us, this is not just about celebrating or commemorating Human Rights Day - it’s about what we are doing to change people’s lives here. If you look around, you can see the … challenges that our people still facing. But we are doing our level best to turn the tide,” Mabuyane said.
The area has been among the hardest hit by natural disasters, further exacerbating socio-economic struggles. However, the Premier assured residents that government has a concrete plan to support affected communities.
“We have a plan to ensure that we rescue our people out of these kinds of challenges,” he said.
Mabuyane welcomed the visit by the Deputy President to the province, saying his presence reinforces government’s commitment to ensuring that historically marginalised communities are not left behind.
“The people of this area must know that they are part of the history of our country, and they must feel the presence of the government,” he said.
Deputy President Mashatile is set to deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Human Rights Day commemoration event.
The programme began with a visit to James Ndulula Primary School, followed by a wreath laying ceremony at Langa Memorial in Kariega.
Meanwhile at the main event the festivities began with lively performances that had the crowd dancing and cheering in anticipation of the Deputy President’s speech.
This year’s Human Rights Day commemorative events are being held under the theme, “Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights”.
The theme calls for renewed commitment from all levels of society to accelerate practical solutions for inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and addressing the high cost of living while building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day annually on 21 March in remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, where 69 anti-apartheid protesters were killed by apartheid police.
The day also honours the 35 people killed on 21 March 1985 in Uitenhage and KwaLanga when apartheid police targeted community members after a funeral. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 03/21/2025 - 13:05
104 views
Mining companies could fulfil their social obligations by investing in these projects
Contractor is taking Matatiele Local Municipality to court over unpaid fees
Community media plays a vital role in promoting social change
In a world where information is power, community media stands as a vital force in empowering marginalised voices, driving social change and strengthening democracy.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has underscored the significance of this sector, emphasising its role in fostering community engagement and supporting local development.
Speaking during Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies oversight visit to the Government Communication and Information System in Pretoria on Wednesday, Morolong urged the GCIS to harness the power of strategic partnerships to inform South Africans about government’s social transformation agenda.
"We have a network of communicators across all three spheres of government to ensure effective coordination," Morolong said, highlighting the need to build professional capacity in government communication.
He stressed the importance of adapting to the rapid growth of new media to bridge the gap between government and citizens.
According to Morolong, communication is not just a bureaucratic function but a constitutional responsibility.
"An appreciation of this premise will ensure that we fulfil the prescripts of the Constitution, including upholding political, social and other rights," he said.
GCIS Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management, Michael Currin, echoed this sentiment, explaining that effective government communication plays a crucial role in shaping national sentiment, fostering social cohesion and inspiring positive behavioural change.
"Through a coordinated communication system, government proactively responds to the evolving political and socio-economic landscape, fostering a direct relationship with citizens," Currin said.
He emphasised that clear and coherent messaging is essential to building public confidence and national unity.
Portfolio Committee commends GCIS's efforts
Portfolio Committee on Communication chairperson, Khusela Diko, expressed her satisfaction with the GCIS’s performance.
"I was impressed with the presentations [on the GCIS operations and its programmes], especially those involving community print media. These discussions help us, as lawmakers, understand the core issues that affect our citizens," she told SAnews.
Diko affirmed that lessons learned from these engagements would shape the committee’s oversight efforts.
"We hope that GCIS and its partnerships will continue to empower people with vital information, enabling them to improve their lives," she said.
Diko further stressed the importance of citizens knowing how to access job opportunities, start businesses, and benefit from government programmes.
"When South Africans can confidently say: 'I know what my government is doing for me and how I can access services', we will have achieved our goal," she said.
Established in 1998 and operating under the Presidency, the GCIS has a clear mission: to strengthen government communication, ensure transparency, and keep citizens informed about policies, programmes, and achievements. By embracing innovation and leveraging new media, it continues to play a crucial role in fostering a well-informed and engaged society.
Bringing government closer to the people
The Portfolio Committee is committed to ensuring that government communication is effective and accessible. As part of its mandate, the committee is conducting oversight visits to various entities in Gauteng, engaging with staff members and reviewing government communication strategies.
The committee has also listened to presentations from the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) and other entities, evaluating their effectiveness in delivering critical information to the public. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 09:25
300 views