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George attends ministerial meetings on climate action in China

Location: News

George attends ministerial meetings on climate action in China

Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Dr Dion George, will on Sunday attend the Brazil, South Africa, India and China (BASIC) Ministerial Meeting, ahead of the 8th Session of the Ministerial on Climate Action (MoCA) taking place in Wuhan, China.

The Ministers responsible for climate change from the BASIC countries will gather for the bi-annual meeting to discuss key issues related to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) negotiations at the upcoming Conference of Parties (COP29).

These include the need to finalise the rules around carbon markets, adaptation indicators, the Just Transition Pathways Work Programme, the Mitigation Work Programme, and the new collective quantified goal (NCQG) on finance.

George emphasised the importance of ensuring a balanced agenda that addresses issues critical to developing countries, and to pressure developed countries to fulfil their commitments.

The BASIC group plays a pivotal role in unifying developing countries and providing leadership in climate negotiations.

“South Africa reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with fellow members of the Global South. We regard the BASIC group as a key strategic platform for articulating and advancing the interests of developing countries towards a more sustainable, just and equitable international order,” George said.

MoCA, which is taking place on 22 -23 July 2024, is one of the platforms created at the initiative of individual States in support of the UNFCCC negotiations that seeks to identify issues of convergence and divergence at a political level, with a view to bridge building and exploring potential landing zones ahead of the COP.

MoCA is convened by China, the European Union (EU) and Canada. It was initiated in 2017 to support the Paris Agreement and the multilateral climate process.

The MoCA in Wuhan is a key moment for ministers and senior climate diplomats to gather, coming shortly after the UNFCCC intersessional in June.

It will be a chance to elevate sticky issues in climate negotiations to a higher political level.

George said such meetings are important because the negotiations often deadlock at the technical level due to geopolitical tensions and the national interests at stake.

South Africa has traditionally played a key role in the UNFCCC process, helping to secure consensus outcomes, including through special co-facilitation, and chairing roles being conferred to successive South African Presidents and Ministers at Climate Summits and COPs over the past two decades.

“I look forward to the frank political discussions on the progress and complexities around implementing the COP 28 outcomes, the role of carbon markets, the new collective quantified goal on climate finance beyond $100 billion per annum to be set at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as well as other critical negotiations items needed to be addressed,” George said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 07/21/2024 - 13:05

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Lesufi ‘fully accepts’ judgement in Life Esidimeni inquest

Location: News

Lesufi ‘fully accepts’ judgement in Life Esidimeni inquest

The Gauteng Provincial Government says it fully accepts the judgment in the Life Esidimeni inquest handed down by the Pretoria High Court on Wednesday.

The inquest, which was established in July 2021, sought to investigate the criminal liability for the deaths of 141 mental healthcare users from Life Esidimeni.

Pretoria High Court Judge Mmonoa Teffo has determined that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and the then Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela, can be held accountable for the deaths of some Life Esidimeni patients.

In 2016, the Gauteng Department of Health moved the deceased from Life Esidimeni – a long-term psychiatric care hospital, which provided highly specialised chronic care to mental healthcare users to NGOs, which Teffo described as “ill-equipped” and “inexperienced” to give proper and adequate care.

This conduct, the judge said, led to “regrettable and unfortunate deaths, some of which could have been avoided”.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said: “We are pleased this process that brought so much pain and suffering to those who lost their loved ones, as well as the survivors whose human rights were grossly violated by this tragedy is nearing its end. 

“This judgement closes a painful chapter, not only for the affected families but for us as the Gauteng Provincial Government.”

The judgement follows an arbitration process led by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke that was established in 2018 and culminated in an arbitration award for the victims of the tragedy. 

Moseneke gave the provincial government a list of 134 people after he concluded that families should each receive payments of R1 million in constitutional damages from government. 

According to the provincial government, all claimants were paid R159 460 000 within the time that was stipulated by Justice Moseneke in his report.

“The only payments that are still outstanding are for the survivors who were not part of the initial arbitration process.” 

The provincial government said it was currently administering these claims. 

However, the claimants will only receive 50% of the claims upon successful verification. The other half will be held in trust on behalf of the mental healthcare user, which aligns with the Mental Healthcare Act 17 of 2002.

“As the Gauteng Provincial Government, we are confident that the National Prosecuting Authority will take this judgement forward and we await the conclusion of this matter,” the Premier said. 

Way forward

Lesufi added that following the Life Esidimeni tragedy, the provincial government has made concerted efforts to ensure that the rights of mental healthcare users are promoted and safeguarded. 

“As part of ongoing measures to strengthen mental health care in Gauteng, the provincial government undertook to ensure that the five district Mental Health Review Boards (MHRB) are functional and effective.” 

The MHRBs are made up of 27 people with diverse expertise which include legal practitioners, mental healthcare practitioners, and community members with a proven record of community development and involvement.

In response to the growing need for mental health services, the provincial government said it has prioritised the refurbishments and repurposing of some of its healthcare facilities to improve mental healthcare infrastructure and services across the province.

According to the provincial government, several facilities have since been refurbished and opened to ensure enough acute mental health beds in hospitals and to increase mental health resources, including specialised professionals and rehabilitation services. 

These facilities include Bertha Gxowa, South Rand, Tshwane District, Tembisa, Edenvale, Dr George Mukhari and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals. 

The newly opened Kopanong Gateway Specialised Mental Health Day Clinic offers a basket of free services for mental health patients ranging from counselling, social work services, dual diagnosis services as well as psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents.

“The provincial government sympathises with the bereaved and affected families and understands that the Life Esidimeni inquest was incredibly important for families to find closure and for accountability,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 07/11/2024 - 09:48

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Meet SA’s new cabinet

Location: News

Meet SA's new cabinet

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Sunday 30 June 2024, announced the new members of the National Executive for the seventh administration, which is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity.

The highly anticipated announcement took place after Ramaphosa was elected as the President by the National Assembly on Friday, 14 June 2024, after which he was inaugurated on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.  

The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation. 

Addressing the nation on Sunday evening, the President said given the challenges that the country faces and considering the electoral mandate this government must implement, he has decided to make certain changes to the national government portfolios.

“In the course of the sixth democratic administration, we indicated our intention to reduce the number of portfolios in the National Executive. However, due to the need to ensure that the National Executive is inclusive of all the parties to the Government of National Unity, this has not been possible.

“In some instances, we have considered it necessary to separate certain portfolios to ensure that there is sufficient focus on key issues,” Ramaphosa said at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

WATCH | 

Changes to portfolios 

He said the Ministries of Electricity and Energy will be merged.

“There will be a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The Ministry of Agriculture will be separated from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development.

“The Ministry of Higher Education will be separated from the ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. The ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development will be separated from the ministry of Correctional Services.

“There will no longer be a Ministry of Public Enterprises. The coordination of the relevant public enterprises will be located in the Presidency during the process of implementing a new shareholder model,” the President said.

The new National Executive

Ramaphosa has decided to make the following appointments to the National Executive:

  • The Deputy President is Paul Mashatile.
  • The Minister of Agriculture is John Steenhuisen.
  • The Deputy Minister of Agriculture is Rosemary Nokuzola Capa.
  • The Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development is Mzwanele Nyhontso.
  • The Deputy Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development is Chupu Stanley Mathabatha.
  • The Minister of Basic Education is Siviwe Gwarube.
  • The Deputy Minister of Basic Education is Reginah Mhaule.
  • The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies is Solly Malatsi.
  • The Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies is Mondli Gungubele.
  • The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is Velinkosi Hlabisa.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs are Dickson Masemola and Zolile Burns‐Ncamashe.
  • The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans is Angie Motshekga.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Defence and Military Veterans are Bantu Holomisa and Richard Mkhungo.
  • The Minister of Electricity and Energy is Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.
  • The Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy is Samantha Graham.
  • The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation is Blade Nzimande.
  • The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation is Nomalungelo Gina.
  • The Minister of Employment and Labour is Nomakhosazana Meth.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Employment and Labour are Jomo Sibiya and Phumzile Mgcina.
  • The Minister of Finance is Enoch Godongwana.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Finance are David Masondo and Ashor Sarupen.
  • The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is Dion George.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment are Narend Singh and Bernice Swarts.
  • The Minister of Health is Aaron Motsoaledi.
  • The Deputy Minister of Health is Joe Phaahla.
  • The Minister of Higher Education is Nobuhle Nkabane.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Higher Education are Buti Manamela and Mimmy Gondwe.
  • The Minister of Home Affairs is Leon Schreiber.
  • The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs is Njabulo Nzuza.
  • The Minister of Human Settlements is Mmamoloko Kubayi.
  • The Deputy Minister of Human Settlements is Tandi Mahambehlala.
  • The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation is Ronald Lamola.
  • The Deputy Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation are Alvin Botes and Tandi Moraka.
  • The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is Thembi Nkadimeng.
  • The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development is Andries Nel.
  • The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is Gwede Mantashe.
  • The Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is Judith Nemadzinga‐Tshabalala.
  • The Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation is Maropene Ramokgopa.
  • The Deputy Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation is Seiso Mohai.
  • The Minister of Police is Senzo Mchunu.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Police are Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale.
  • The Minister in the Presidency is Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
  • The Deputy Ministers in the Presidency are Nonceba Mhlauli and Kenneth Morolong.
  • The Minister of Public Service and Administration is Mzamo Buthelezi.
  • The Deputy Minister of Public Service and Administration is Pinky Kekana.
  • The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure is Dean Macpherson.
  • The Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure is Sihle Zikalala.
  • The Minister of Small Business Development is Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams.
  • The Deputy Minister of Small Business Development is Jane Sithole.
  • The Minister of Social Development is Sisisi Tolashe.
  • The Deputy Minister of Social Development is Ganief Hendricks.
  • The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture is Gayton McKenzie.
  • The Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture is Peace Mabe.
  • The Minister of Tourism is Patricia De Lille.
  • The Deputy Minister of Tourism is Maggie Sotyu.
  • The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition is Parks Tau.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition are Zuko Godlimpi and Andrew Whitfield.
  • The Minister of Transport is Barbara Creecy.
  • The Deputy Minister of Transport is Mkhuleko Hlengwa.
  • The Minister of Water and Sanitation is Pemmy Majodina.
  • The Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation are David Mahlobo and Isaac Seitlholo.
  • The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is Sindisiwe Chikunga.
  • The Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is Mmapaseka Steve Letsike.
  • The Minister of Correctional Services is Pieter Groenewald.
  • The Deputy Minister of Correctional Services is Lindiwe Ntshalintshali.

Click here for the Summary of the new National Executive |

New National Executive

New National Executive

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 22:41

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Read moreMeet SA’s new cabinet

An Actor, Nobel Prize Winner, Director and Singers Walk into a Bar. What do they have in Common?

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

We are at a loss as to whether the ‘loss’ of these famous people to other industries was a good or a bad thing says Straton Electrical as they list several famous people started out as electricians before achieving fame in other fields: George Harrison: The Beatles guitarist worked as an apprentice electrician at a …

Read moreAn Actor, Nobel Prize Winner, Director and Singers Walk into a Bar. What do they have in Common?

Fire claims patient’s life at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital

Location: News

Fire claims patient’s life at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital

The Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed that a fire incident at the psychiatric unit of the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital has resulted in the death of a 35-year-old female patient.

According to a statement, the patient was admitted on 20 June 2024. She was placed in a seclusion room on Monday as part of her prescribed treatment when at around 18:35, smoke and a small fire broke out.

“Immediate actions were taken to safeguard the safety and well-being of patients. The fire was quickly contained and extinguished by the fire brigade, but unfortunately, the patient in the seclusion room sustained fatal injuries.

“Seventeen other patients in the unit were successfully evacuated and temporarily relocated to a different wing of the psychiatric department as a precautionary measure,” the statement read. 

According to the department, the cause of the fire is still unknown at this stage and the incident has been reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for further investigation.

“The department wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the patient’s family as they mourn the sudden passing of their daughter.” 

The provincial department said both the bereaved family and the families of the 17 patients will be taken through a debriefing. 

“Counselling services will also be made available to them.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 06/25/2024 - 10:13

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Basketball Africa League To Participate in Quai 54 Streetball Tournament in Paris

Location: Sport

Basketball Africa League (BAL)
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For the second consecutive year, the Basketball Africa League (BAL) (https://TheBAL.com/) will participate in the prestigious Quai 54 (https://apo-opa.co/3RBcBdH), the world's biggest streetball tournament, which will take place on Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23 at Stade Pierre de Coubertin in Paris, France.  The BAL's participation is part of the league's year-round strategy to engage new and existing fans across the African Diaspora and around the world.

The team representing the BAL will feature standout players from the 2024 season, including 2024 champion and Angolan basketball legend Carlos Morais (Angola's Petro de Luanda), 2024 All-BAL First Team and All-Defensive Team member Samkelo Cele (South Africa's Cape Town Tigers), and 2024 BAL 3-point leader Kelvin Amayo (Nigeria's Rivers Hoopers).  Below is the complete list of participating players:

First Name

Last Name

2024 BAL Team

Makhtar

Gueye

Dynamo Basketball Club (Burundi)

Samkelo

Cele

Cape Town Tigers (South Africa)

Kelvin

Amayo

Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria)

Jean Jacques

Boissy

AS Douanes (Senegal)

Carlos

Morais

Petro de Luanda (Angola)

Yannick

Moreira

Petro de Luanda (Angola)

George

Williams

US Monastir (Tunisia)

John

Wilkins

Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria)

The team will be coached by Karim Nesba (Morocco), who served as head coach of the City Oilers (Uganda) during the 2024 BAL season, and Victor Samnick, who won the French National League (LNB) championship in 2008 and 2011 and played collegiately at Georgetown University. 

Quai 54 is renowned for its high-energy atmosphere and top-tier competition, bringing together the best streetball talent from around the world.  Last year, the BAL team that reached the semifinals featured 2023 BAL champion Ehab Amin (Egypt's Al Ahly), 2023 All-BAL First Team member Chris Crawford (Senegal's AS Douanes), and 2023 All-BAL Defensive Team member Ater Majok (Petro de Luanda).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Read moreBasketball Africa League To Participate in Quai 54 Streetball Tournament in Paris

Investing in public transport to enhance accessibility 

Location: News

Investing in public transport to enhance accessibility 

Government has invested a cumulative total of R69 billion in public transport, which was spent towards infrastructure and operations in an effort to enhance accessibility to public transport and mobility.

Addressing a media briefing on the state of the transport sector, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, said a total of R55 billion was spent in 13 cities between 2006 and 2024.

This has translated into 131 stations; 253 kilometres of dedicated and bidirectional trunk routes; 302km of mixed traffic by-directional trunk routes, as well as 260km of two-way cycling, pedestrian, and non-motorised transport facilities.

In addition, 2 628 bus stops were built; 11 depots were constructed; 44 million passengers were carried per annum as of 2023/24. Integrated Public Transport Networks (IPTNs) are operating at 14 – 20 operational hours daily, with approximately 1 020 vehicles.

Eight cities are implementing initial phases and planning expansions to other areas that include Cape Town, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, George, Polokwane, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Rustenburg.

“It must also be noted that 14 Vehicle Operating Companies have been established and contracted by municipalities to provide public transport services in IPTNs.

“The most important benefit has been the formalisation of informal taxi operators and their economic empowerment in the IPTN. The majority of these Vehicle Operating Centres are run by taxi operators," Chikunga said on Monday in Centurion.

Taxi industry

Government has continued to implement taxi industry reforms to improve the industry.

“To date, from a target of 135 894 old taxi vehicles to be scrapped, a total of 83 713 taxis have been scrapped and about R5.9 billion has been paid out to operators through the Taxi Recapitalisation Programme (TRP),” Chikunga said.

Moreover, the Department of Transport has committed to the various commercial projects for the taxi industry, which include the Taxi Broad-Based Ownership Structure, where the taxi industry owns 60% of the taxi scrapping entity, with 40% owned by a technical partner. 

A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed between the parties.

Chikunga said the signing into law of the Economic Regulation of Transport Bill by the President will see the consolidation of the economic regulation of transport into a unified framework and policy. 

“It aims to primarily promote the development of a competitive, efficient, and viable South African transport industry, contributing to economic growth and development.

“It will also promote the development of an integrated system of economic regulation for the transportation of passengers and goods through airports or ports and by road or rail; as well as promote efficiency, reliability, safety and performance in the management and operation of transport facilities and services, in accordance with recognised international standards and public demand,” she said.

The bill also seeks to establish appropriate institutional arrangements and procedures, which will support the consistent economic regulation of transport facilities and services.

It will also enhance transparency in the management of transport facilities and services.

Last year, the Department of Transport tabled at Cabinet the Draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy.

“The basic principles of the public transport subsidy are to have a subsidy that is user-targeted, equitable and sustainable in the medium to long term. We have, irrespective of our challenges and constraints, managed to realise major milestones in the area of public transport, almost as much as we have progressed with improvements in the implementation of other mandates, and these have positively affected the lives of ordinary South Africans,” the Minister said.

Learner transport

Chikunga said the National Learner Transport Programme remains an important avenue towards easing mobility for learners, the provision of safe transport to educational centres, improved school attendance and academic performance. 

“We have been able to implement that in 4 204 schools nationally. This programme is fully funded and provides a free service to learners with a budget allocation of R4.7 billion.

“The 2001 National Bicycle Programme, known as Shova Kalula, adds an important facility for the mobility of learners who do not fit the criteria for scholar transport. To date, 122 307 bicycles were distributed to learners as part of the National Learner Transport Policy,” Chikunga said.

Under the sixth administration, the Department of Transport distributed 32 307 bicycles nationally in all provinces, targeting underprivileged and rural learners. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 06/18/2024 - 14:41

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Hyde Park Corner Revving Up for a High-Octane Father’s Day Weekend!

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Hyde Park Corner Revving Up for a High-Octane Father’s Day Weekend! Fasten your seatbelts! This long weekend, Hyde Park Corner, in collaboration with Wanted magazine and Zebra Square Gallery, transforms into a car lover’s paradise to celebrate Father’s Day. Here’s a sneak peek at the high-octane excitement awaiting you: A Car Lover’s Dream: The Centre …

Read moreHyde Park Corner Revving Up for a High-Octane Father’s Day Weekend!

Parliament ready for National Assembly sitting

Location: News

Parliament ready for National Assembly sitting

Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, has described the first sittings of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) as a reflection of the electoral mandate of the people of South Africa, as expressed in the recent elections.

“The people have spoken. They have chosen a Parliament that will represent them, as freely elected representatives as reflected in the preamble of the Constitution, to champion their causes, and serve their interests for the next five years,” he said on Thursday. 

George held a media briefing on Thursday as Parliament gears up to host the first sittings of the two Houses of Parliament scheduled for Friday and Saturday.

Tomorrow’s proceedings will also see Members of Parliament (MPs) electing a President who will form the seventh administration to govern the nation. 

“Over the past months, the administration of Parliament has undertaken extensive preparatory work to ensure a seamless transition from the sixth term to the seventh term of Parliament. This has been a pivotal moment for us as a nation, involving a delicate constitutional process that has not been without its challenges.”

He touched on the challenges they have had to overcome such as court challenges to ensure the success of these important inaugural sittings of the two Houses of Parliament. 

“This collective effort underscores our commitment to upholding the democratic principles underpinning our Constitution and ensuring that the will of the people is effectively translated into action.

“With each step in this constitutional process having been meticulously followed and adhered to, we now stand at the cusp of yet another critical milestone in the history of our constitutional democracy.” 

George explained that it was the Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s responsibility to determine the dates for the first sittings of both Houses to preside over these sittings. 

“Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has diligently complied with these constitutional obligations, ensuring that the two Houses of Parliament hold their first sittings within the prescribed 14-day period as mandated by the Constitution.” 

The Secretary announced that the inaugural sittings will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

Parliamentary process

The Chief Justice will open the session and preside over the swearing-in of all the permanent delegates appointed by their respective provinces. 

“This will follow the first sittings of the provincial legislatures to elect permanent and non-permanent delegates to the NCOP. 

“After presiding over the swearing-in of the 54 designated permanent delegates, the Chief Justice will also chair the election of the Chairperson of the Council.” 

Once elected, the new Chairperson will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Chairpersons.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Justice Zondo will also preside over the election of the Speaker of the NA and then he or she will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker.

“These elections are crucial for the proper constitution of the National Assembly, as they ensure the leadership structure is in place to guide the House’s functions and duties.”

Once the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected, George explained that the NA will then be constitutionally competent to proceed with electing a Member of the Assembly to be inaugurated as the President. 

“This is a crucial process, as it sets the stage for the formation of the new administration that will govern the country. Once elected, the person ceases to be a Member of Parliament.”

George has assured citizens that all necessary voting infrastructure has been meticulously prepared to ensure a smooth and secure election process. 

This includes the setup of voting booths for privacy, the provision of ballot boxes for the collection of votes, the preparation of the voters’ roll to verify eligible voters, and the availability of safety boxes for the secure safekeeping of ballot papers.

“We are fully prepared for the first sittings ... Our comprehensive preparations ensure that every aspect of these inaugural sessions, from logistical arrangements to security measures, have been meticulously planned and implemented.

“We are confident that the proceedings will unfold smoothly and effectively, marking the successful commencement of the 7th democratic Parliament,” said George. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 15:37

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Date set for Presidential inauguration

Location: News

Date set for Presidential inauguration

The Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George, has announced that the inauguration of the President-elect will be held in Pretoria on Wednesday next week.

This comes as the National Assembly will hold its first sitting tomorrow at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where the President will be elected following the swearing in of Members of Parliament.

The first sittings of the National Assembly on Friday and the National Council of Provinces on Saturday represents the establishment of the new parliamentary term, following the elections on 29 May 2024.

After receiving the list of candidates from Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, Parliament has been interfacing with the elected Members and their respective parties to capture their details into the parliamentary system.

The first sitting of the National Assembly will commence with the swearing-in of all designated members in attendance by the Chief Justice. Following the swearing-in ceremony, the Chief Justice will also preside over the election of the Speaker of the National Assembly.

“Once elected, the newly appointed Speaker will take over the proceedings and preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker. These elections are crucial for the proper constitution of the National Assembly, as they ensure the leadership structure is in place to guide the House’s functions and duties.

“With the Speaker and Deputy Speaker elected, the National Assembly will then be constitutionally competent to proceed with its first major task – the election of the man or woman from amongst the Members of the Assembly, to be inaugurated as the President of the Republic.

“This is a crucial process, as it sets the stage for the formation of the new administration that will govern the country. Once elected, the person ceases to be a Member of Parliament,” said George.

He said the Constitution stipulates that once elected as President by the National Assembly, the President-elect must assume office within five days by taking an oath or affirming their faithfulness to the Republic and their obedience to the Constitution.

George said that after the conclusion of the first sittings, members will proceed to attend the inauguration of the President-elect, which is scheduled for 19 June 2024 in Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 15:06

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Parliament notes dates for first sittings of National Assembly

Location: News

Parliament notes dates for first sittings of National Assembly

Parliament has noted the dates for the first sittings of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), as confirmed by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Monday.

“The Chief Justice confirmed 14 and 15 June as the dates for the first sittings of the Houses of Parliament in a letter to the Secretary to Parliament, Xolile George,” Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said.

READ | First sitting of the National Assembly to be held on Friday

According to Section 51(1) of the Constitution, the first sitting of the National Assembly must take place at a time and on a date determined by the Chief Justice and within 14 days after the election results have been declared.

Mothapo explained that during the first sitting of the NA, the Chief Justice will swear in the designated members and administer the oath or affirmation of faithfulness to the Republic and obedience to the Constitution. 

All members must take this oath or affirm faithfulness before they can perform their functions in the assembly.

“Following the swearing in of the members, the Chief Justice will preside over the election of the NA Speaker. Once the Speaker has been elected, he or she will then preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker,” Mothapo said.

After the Deputy Speaker has been elected, the Chief Justice will then take over again and preside over the election of the President.

In the NCOP on 15 June, the Chief Justice will swear in and administer the prescribed oath and affirmation to the members and thereafter preside over the election of the NCOP Chairperson. The Chairperson will preside over the election of the NCOP Deputy Chairperson.

The rules that will apply during the first sittings were gazetted by the Office of the Chief on 30 May 2024.

The sittings will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 08:37

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Join us for a day of food, fun and charity at the Parkview Potjiekos Competition 2024

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

11 June 2024 – On Sunday, July 28th, the Nicarela Charity will host their annual Potjiekos competition at George Hay Park in Parkview. Teams will cook and sell their Potjiekos dishes while attendees enjoy the delicious food under the warm Johannesburg sky. With over 30 pots to choose from, including vegetarian options, there’s something for …

Read moreJoin us for a day of food, fun and charity at the Parkview Potjiekos Competition 2024

Parliament working to usher in new representatives

Location: News

Parliament working to usher in new representatives

Parliamentary administrations are hard at work in preparation to receive and welcome the newly elected representatives of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.

This is according to Secretary of Parliament Xolile George, who was speaking during the official handover of the lists of new representatives on Thursday at the Constitutional Court.

The lists were handed over by Electoral Commission of South Africa Chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, to Chief Justice Raymond Zondo who in turn handed them to George.

South Africans headed to the polls last week to elect new representatives for the seventh administration in the country’s most competitive elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994.

“[Let] me take this opportunity, on behalf of our National Parliament, to extend gratitude, respect and congratulations to the people of South Africa who showed up in their numbers to exercise their Constitutional right to participate in our seventh democratic elections to determine their government and their national and provincial representatives.

“As the Parliamentary Administrations across the legislative sector, we have been hard at work preparing to welcome the elected representatives of the National Assembly and the Provincial Legislatures and the establishment of our sventh democratic Parliament and the nine Provincial Legislatures,” George said.

He outlined the “on boarding” processes that Parliament will undertake for the newly elected members of the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces and the Provincial Legislatures.

“We have critically considered the parliamentary rules, mechanisms and processes to ensure that the work of Members of Parliament is facilitated and supported effectively.

“Arrangements are in place for the first sittings of the National Assembly, the Provincial Legislatures and the National Council of Provinces.

“With the receipt of the official list of elected representatives I assure the Chief Justice and our nation that our work will continue in earnest to ensure seamless, efficient and effective foundational processes, so that the work of Members of both Houses of Parliament and the Provincial Legislatures can commence without delay,” he said.

Will of the people

At the handover ceremony, Moepya revealed that Parliament will be made up of 174 females (43.5%) and 226 males (56.5%).

The age range for the representatives is as follows:

  • 12 candidates are aged 20 to 29
  • 67  are in the 30 to 39 age band
  • 110 are between 40 and 49
  • 110 are 50 to 59
  • 90 are 60 to 69
  • 11 are 70 and above

“These representatives reflect the choices, hopes and aspirations of millions of citizens who exercised their democratic rights.

“This list is not exhaustive – an election touches the lives of everyone in a nation. Their commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent election has been truly commendable,” Moepya said.

He emphasised that the lists handover is a critical part of South Africa’s democratic processes.

“We do so in keeping with an established practice in South Africa that after the announcement by the Electoral Commission of the results of the National and Provincial Elections the Electoral Commission hands over the lists of members of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures to the Chief Justice, who then hands them over to the Secretary to Parliament.

“This momentous occasion signifies the culmination of a robust and transparent electoral process, a process that echoes the unified voice of our nation.

“[Our] role as the Electoral Commission…is to ensure that South African voters exercise their rights to choose their leaders. We have carried out these responsibilities without fear, favour or prejudice. The lists that we present…reflect the choices of South Africans,” Moepya said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 09:49

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MP, MPLs lists handed over to Parliament Secretary

Location: News

MP, MPLs lists handed over to Parliament Secretary

Secretary of Parliament, Xolile George, has now officially received the list of elected representatives who will make up the National Assembly for South Africa’s seventh Parliament.

George received the list from Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in a handover ceremony held at the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg on Thursday.

Earlier in the ceremony, Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) chairperson Mosotho Moepya handed over that list and another list of those expected to serve in the Provincial Legislatures to the Chief Justice.

“As South Africans, we have again demonstrated to the world, that despite the numerous global and domestic challenges that we face, we are steadfast in maintaining the integrity of our Constitution and our commitment to our growing democracy through, again, conducting peaceful and efficient elections.

“This is a track record that all South Africans should be proud of. South Africa's young democracy shines as a beacon of hope, not just for our nation, but for all those who believe in the power of the people to shape their own destiny through free and fair elections.

“This is indeed a historic moment in the maturity of our democracy, where political parties are compelled to work together to establish a government and a Parliament that represents the will and aspirations of the people,” George said.

Chief Justice Raymond Zondo said the handover of the lists from the IEC to the Chief Justice and in turn to the Secretary of Parliament “marks an important milestone in our Constitutional democracy”.

“Now that the list is here, one knows who will be members of Parliament who will convene on the first day of the sitting. The announcement of the date for the first sitting of Parliament will be the next step. That…will be announced by the Chief Justice and I think it’s going to happen pretty soon.

“The judiciary will play its role to make sure that our Constitutional democracy runs as smoothly as it should,” Zondo said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 17:26

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Read moreMP, MPLs lists handed over to Parliament Secretary

Historic Win for Gelant at Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon

Location: MyPR

Ten years after winning his first Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon title, Elroy Gelant turned back the hands of time with another memorable performance at South Africa’s premiere 21km race. The Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon, incorporating the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Half Marathon Championships, got off to a wet and windy start on Marine …

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BPESA highlights the potential of the KZN South Coast as a BPO and GBS investment destination

Location: MyPR

There were 6 018 new jobs created countrywide in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Global Business Services (GBS) sectors between October and December 2023 – 39% of which were in KwaZulu-Natal. In July 2023, it was reported that the sector contributed $74 million (around R1.3 billion) to the country’s export revenue. This is clearly …

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