Environmental activists win against Shell in appeal court
Shell still has one more shot at seismic exploration authorisation
South Africa
Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Moms Who Have Everything
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Government welcomes conclusion of elections
Government welcomes conclusion of elections
Government has welcomed the successful conclusion of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, which ushers in the seventh democratic administration in the 30 years of South Africa’s freedom and democracy.
“These elections stand as testament to our vibrant and dynamic constitutional democracy and affirms our faith and confidence in our open democratic processes,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday.
Government thanked the 16 248 027 citizens who exercised their Constitutional right as well as civic duty to cast their ballots with “admirable patience, tolerance and enthusiasm”.
According to the Electoral Commission (IEC), the voter turnout for these elections was at 58.58%.
“This marks a watershed feat in the journey of our inclusive and participatory democracy as espoused by the Electoral Amendment Act 1 of 2023.
“The completion of this rigorous electoral process that comprised multiple milestones, from voter registration to actual voting and ultimately the vote counting as well as official announcement of the outcome of the election by the Electoral Commission of South Africa signals a formal end to the elections.
“The ‘snaking’ queues that characterised Voting Day across the length and breadth of our beloved country were demonstrative of a proud nation and a responsible citizenry, reminiscent of our first democratic elections,” GCIS said.
Government also congratulated the IEC for once again concluding a peaceful, free and fair election.
“The IEC is applauded for its transparency throughout the counting, verification, capturing and auditing process, which alleviated transgressions in the election outcomes.
“For the first time, South Africans had multiple options at the ballot with 70 political parties contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates and 52 national contestants. In total, there were over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures,” GCIS said.
Since the dispensation of freedom and democracy in 1994, South Africa has now held seven successive free and fair democratic elections.
“We welcome the declaration by various domestic and international observers affirming the 2024 elections as free and fair which serves as a vote of confidence in the integrity as well as credibility of the country’s electoral processes.
“The elections were encouragingly competitive and contested in a remarkable spirit of political maturity and tolerance. Government congratulates all political parties and wishes them well in their upcoming term of public office.
“Government acknowledges the valuable contributions of citizens, community leaders, election officials, volunteers and various government departments who played a pivotal part in the successful conclusion of the elections. We also commend our law enforcement agencies who worked diligently to ensure that these elections took place in a peaceful, nonviolent, and safe environment,” GCIS said.
It appealed to citizens to respect the authority of the IEC and all empowering provisions to execute its mandate.
“The elections results have been officially declared free and fair. We move forward to ensure a peaceful and stable South Africa. Any attempt to undermine the authority of the State and South Africa’s constitutional order will not be tolerated and will be dealt with accordingly,” GCIS said.
GCIS Acting Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa said the elections were another milestone for South Africa as the country celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy.
“This reinforces our dedication to adhering to democratic electoral processes. Government extends its appreciation to all stakeholders who made it possible for the country to conduct elections in a secure environment,” Mnukwa said.
The public has been urged to refrain from sharing information in any form of pictures, audios or videos that perpetuate misinformation and disinformation or seek to incite any form of violence.
“Our law enforcement agencies continue to be deployed across the country to ensure that peace and safety prevails post the elections.
“The Chief Justice has already gazetted the rules for the first sitting of the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces and Provincial Legislatures, of which the date should be confirmed within 14 days after the elections results are declared.
“When the first sitting of Parliament takes place, the Chief Justice first presides over the process of electing the Office Bearers of Parliament, the Speaker of the National Assembly, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces,” GCIS said.
Government reiterated its dedication to continue providing services to its citizens while awaiting the finalisation of the smooth Parliamentary transition. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 06/03/2024 - 09:25
829 views
Local trio brings flavour to Scottburgh with launch of stylish Wild Coffee Shop
Residents and visitors to the stunning Scottburgh on KZN South Coast can now enjoy world-class coffee and a healthy meal in the stylish setting of the newly launched Wild Coffee Shop. Started by three local entrepreneurs, Wild Coffee Shop opened its doors to patrons at its corner location on Scott Street (opposite the Blue Marlin …
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The organizers of the Totalsports Women’s Race proudly welcome NIVEA, a global skincare and personal care brand, as the official skincare partner for one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s celebrations. “We are thrilled to partner with NIVEA as the official skincare sponsor for the Totalsports Women’s Race in 2024,” says Nikki Crous, Head of …
Plans underway for establishment of the seventh democratic Parliament
Plans underway for establishment of the seventh democratic Parliament
Following the successful 2024 National and Provincial Elections held last week Wednesday, plans for the establishment of the country’s seventh democratic Parliament now get into full swing.
Explaining the next step after the elections concluded, Parliamentary spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo, said Parliament is fully prepared, and all the necessary arrangements have been made for establishing the new National Assembly.
“Comprehensive plans are in place to ensure a seamless transition, including onboarding new Members of Parliament,” Mothapo said in a statement.
Mothapo noted that in democratic countries such as South Africa, Parliament plays a crucial role in making legislation and holding the government to account.
“Under a proportional representation electoral system, Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected to represent the people of the country and act as their voice. Parliament, therefore, is accountable to the people of South Africa,” Mothapo said.
Mothapo explained that every five years, the people of South Africa have the opportunity to cast their votes for a new Parliament, and each new five-year term of Parliament is numbered.
This has happened in the elections of 1994, where people voted for the first democratic Parliament. The second Parliament followed the General Elections in 1999, with the third Parliament in 2004, the fourth in 2009, with the fifth Parliament in 2014 and the sixth in 2019.
On Wednesday, 29 May, South Africans cast their votes in the country’s seventh democratic election to determine which political parties and, for the first time, independent candidates, will represent them in Parliament and the Provincial Legislatures.
Mothapo said as the legislative authority of the democratic republic, the National Assembly must ensure a government by the people by choosing a President, providing a national forum for public consideration of issues, passing legislation, and exercising oversight over the executive’s actions.
He said the National Assembly may be constituted with no fewer than 350 and no more than 400 members.
“The National Assembly is elected for a five-year term according to Section 49 of the Constitution. When the term expires or the Assembly is dissolved, the President must call an election within 90 days.
“Although the term of this Assembly expired on 21 May, it continued to function until the day before the first day of the elections, which was midnight on 28 May.
"Currently, there is no National Assembly, and the process to establish the new House has commenced,” Mothapo explained.
Handling of election results
The election results must be declared within seven days after an election, in terms of Section 57 of the Electoral Act. Following this, members of the National Assembly are designated by the Independent Electoral Commission, and the Commission then hands these lists to the Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, who then hands them over to Parliament.
First sitting of the National Assembly
The first sitting of the National Assembly must occur no more than 14 days after election results are declared, and the Chief Justice of the Republic, Raymond Zondo, will determine and gazette the date for this sitting.
Mothapo explained that before members of the National Assembly perform their functions in the Assembly, they must swear or affirm faithfulness to the Republic and obedience of the Constitution, under Schedule 2 to the Constitution.
“After the swearing in of members, the Chief Justice presides over the election of the Speaker of the National Assembly, who must, in turn, preside over the election of the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly.
"The President of the Republic is the last to be elected by the House because the Assembly must be duly constituted first to exercise its power to elect the President. The Chief Justice presides over the election of the President,” Mothapo said.
Rules for the first sittings gazetted
Mothapo said the Office of the Chief Justice has officially gazetted the rules for the first sittings of the National Assembly.
The rules, as approved by Chief Justice Zondo on 27 May 2024, outline the procedures for the election of key parliamentary and provincial officials, including the President, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, and the Chairperson and Deputy Chairpersons of the National Council of Provinces.
Election of the President
Mothapo said the election of the President, who is chosen among the members of the Assembly, is conducted by the Chief Justice of the Republic and when elected President, a person ceases to be a member of the National Assembly.
“Within five days, he or she must assume office by swearing or affirming faithfulness to the Republic and obedience to the Constitution at an inauguration ceremony,” he explained.
Term of the President and Executive
The term of the President, along with the members of the Executive, only ends when the new President is sworn into office by the Chief Justice of the Republic.
“This is usually during the inauguration ceremony after the National Assembly has elected the President. This is intended to ensure there is no gap in the country's administration between the election and the assumption of office by the incoming President.”
Opening of Parliament Address
Once the President has assumed office, Mothapo said he or she must appoint the Cabinet, and the President, in conjunction with the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, determines a date for the Opening of Parliament Address.
According to the new joint rules of Parliament, the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) is now distinct from the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“The State of the Nation Address is held annually in February to outline the government's plans and priorities for the year and report on the state of the nation. The Opening of Parliament Address, on the other hand, occurs once every five years, after elections, to announce the new administration's plans and to mark the beginning of the new five-year parliamentary term.
“The Opening of Parliament is more than a ceremonial occasion – it is a platform where the government’s vision and priorities are presented, setting the tone for the legislative and administrative actions that will follow. It also symbolises the functioning of the new Parliament, reflecting the continuity and stability of governance,” Mothapo said.
Orientation of new MPs
Mothapo said the newly elected MPs are inducted and oriented through a structured orientation programme, which includes briefings on parliamentary procedures, ethical guidelines, legislative responsibilities, and administrative processes.
“The orientation also often involves training sessions on effective communication, law-making, and constituency management, ensuring that new MPs are well-prepared to fulfil their roles effectively,” he said.
Venue for the first sitting
Mothapo said the first sitting and onboarding venue has been secured at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
He said Parliament will, in due course, provide the comprehensive process that will be followed in establishing the National Council of Provinces of the seventh democratic Parliament. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:27
459 views
The BBC Response to Elections Results – The BBC Will NOT Support Any Coalition that Seeks to Take us back to the days of Apartheid.
The Black Business Council (BBC) applauds the Electoral Commission of South Africa on the execution of the 2024 general elections. The BBC also congratulates all the political parties on mandates given to them by the electorates until 2029. The outcome of the elections reflects the will of the people and are a sign of a …
Entries now open for the 2024 Championship Boerewors competition
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Elections 2024: Low voter turnout must be fixed
Glitches and slow queues need to be seen in light of IEC’s budget cuts
Government activities for the week 03 – 07 June 2024
Government activities for the week 03 - 07 June 2024
On Monday, 03 June, there are no events are confirmed.
On Tuesday, 04 June, Statistics South Africa will release the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) quarter one 2024.
On Wednesday, 05 June, there are no confirmed events.
On Thursday, 06 June, there are no confirmed events.
On Friday, 07 June, there are no confirmed events.
Neo
Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:10
79 views
FUTURELIFE® and Afrika Tikkun Services Empower Entrepreneurs
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Dazel disappointed in faltering finish in Spain
Springbok Women's Sevens head coach Renfred Dazel said they will have to take their HSBC SVNS relegation on the chin, regroup and give their season a fitting finish at their first appearance at the Olympic Games later this year.
The South Africans lost their status as a core team after Spain beat them in Madrid on Sunday, and the Bok Women's Sevens will now have to qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series again via the continental route.
“We will take a week or so off to clear our heads and then start our Olympic preparations in all earnest,” said Dazel.
“As bad it is for us losing our core status, as exciting it is to go and compete as part of Team South Africa at the Paris Olympics and we need to make the most of that special moment.”
With regards to the 2024 season, Dazel feels that the inconsistency during the series came back to haunt them on Sunday, when they had to beat Spain to retain their status as core team.
“Look, we can try and find excuses like the lack of a pre-season for the squad going into the series or the availability of some players, but that is not going to solve our problem of having to qualify again,” said Dazel.
“This is not the first time we lost our status and I know how despondent everyone is feeling. Thanks to SA Rugby's support of the sevens programme, we can remain competitive and qualify to play in the Challenger Series by winning the Africa Cup Sevens in September. So, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.”
Dazel said the next cycle will involve finding new players to join the fray as well as creating opportunities to play sevens rugby: “We need to find the next group of young players who can take the system forward and that is an exciting prospect.
“We will also need to sit down and look at our personnel for the Africa Cup and start preparing for that with enough time in hand. It was disappointing to lose like this today, especially as we lost our way in the second half again. That dogged us all season and cost us dearly today.”
Against Spain, the South Africans clearly felt the pressure of the knock-out phase of the final tournament of the season and conceded four tries without firing any real shots.
Spain, spurred on by a lively home crowd, scored two tries on each side of the halftime break, a clear indication of their dominance in this game. They were on the attack from the outset and although the Bok Women defended well, the host team hit gaps and after four minutes, Juana Stella scored their first try.
South Africa got their hands on the ball, but more mistakes followed and a try by Paula Requena after hooter saw Spain finish the first half with a 10-0 lead.
Requena's second try, 90 seconds into the second half, all but sealed the deal for the Spanish, and although South Africa had a few more opportunities, they were let down by their handling, with too many knock-ons costing them dearly.
Beatriz Dominguez then put the final nail in the South African coffin with a break-out try from their own 22, to ensure Spain play on the world series again next season, even though they finished one spot lower than the Bok Women in 2024.
South Africa won three out of five times against Spain during the 2024 season, but looked nothing like the team that started the tournament with two dominant performances on Friday, and failed to gain ascendency in any area of play.
Their defence was frantic, they conceded numerous penalties at the breakdown and hardly worked themselves into attacking positions, and when they did, handling errors came at a huge cost.
Spain played with much more composure, passion, and direction in the most important match of the season for both teams.
Scorers:
South Africa 0
Spain 22 (10) – Tries: Juana Stella, Paula Requena (2), Beatriz Dominguez. Conversion: Stella.
Issued by SA Rugby Communications
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Rugby.
Note to editors: Audio notes of Renfred Dazel can be downloaded here (https://apo-opa.co/3X311vh).
SA’s democracy is “strong, robust” – President Ramaphosa
SA’s democracy is "strong, robust" - President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the 16 million citizens, who cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections, are proof that South Africa’s democracy is “strong and robust”.
The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
South Africans headed to the polls last week to elect new government leadership for the seventh administration in the country’s most competitive elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994.
“This election has been declared free and fair. It took place peacefully and without serious incidents of intimidation or violence. This is a credit to the Electoral Commission, to the political parties and their leadership, and above all, to the South African people.
“By discharging this important civic duty, South Africans have done more than exercise their right to vote. They have shown that they continue to hold our democratic order and our Constitution in high regard. This successful poll shows that our democracy is strong, that it is robust and that it endures,” President Ramaphosa said.
READ | Government welcomes conclusion of elections
Constitutional order
In this year’s vote, no party won an outright majority in the National Assembly.
This, President Ramaphosa said, presents a “new phase in our democratic journey” in which “political parties will have to strive in earnest to find common ground as we work to rebuild our country”.
“Although every political party carries a mandate based on the commitments they made to the electorate, all parties share an overarching mandate to build a country that is inclusive, united and prosperous.
“This moment in our country calls for responsible leadership and constructive engagement. There can be no place for threats of violence or instability,” he said.
The President called on South Africans to fight for and protect the country’s constitutional order – South Africa’s supreme law.
“This constitutional order is anchored in the rule of law, supported by institutions for advancing democracy, such as the Independent Electoral Commission, and upheld by an independent judiciary.
“South Africans must stand firm against any attempts to undermine the constitutional order we have worked so hard to build, and for which so many struggled and sacrificed.
“Whatever challenges we may face as political events unfold, they should be dealt with in a spirit of cooperation and in accordance with the prescripts of our Constitution and the rule of law,” he said.
READ | 2024 election results a victory for democracy
The President added that all South Africans should take pride in “our own contribution towards giving meaning to the values and principles of our constitutional democracy”.
“As we work as political parties to find each other across the divide in the coming weeks and months, let us demonstrate both in our actions and our utterances that we hold the Constitution and the rule of law to be paramount. Let us remember that whatever authority, whatever power, we are entrusted with must be exercised to advance the interests of the South African people.
“Now more than ever, we need to put our differences aside and work together for the common good,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 06/03/2024 - 09:59
50 views
Proteas Women’s ODI And Test Squad Announced For Tour To India
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today named a 16-player squad for the Proteas Women’s outbound tour to India, beginning with...
Sun sets on 2024 elections
Sun sets on 2024 elections
The sun has set on the most arguably contested election in the history of South Africa, with voting, vote counting and the capturing of results completed.
The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) declared the official results during a ceremony at the national Results Operations Centre on Sunday, attended by, among others, President Cyril Ramaphosa.
This paves the way for the seventh administration, which will lead South Africa for the next five years.
South Africans on 29 May voted using three ballots for the first time because of the inclusion of independent candidates on the ballot. These were the National Ballot, National Regional Ballot and the Provincial Legislature Ballot.
No less than 16 million South Africans made their mark, translating into a voter turnout of 58.61%.
The parties which received the most votes and thus garnered seats in the 400-member National Assembly are as follows:
- African National Congress (ANC) – 159 seats.
- Democratic Alliance (DA) – 87 seats.
- uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK party) – 58 seats.
- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – 39 seats.
- Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – 17 seats.
- Patriotic Alliance (PA) – 9 seats.
- Freedom Front Plus (FF Plus) – 6 seats.
- ActionSA – 6 seats.
- African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – 3 seats.
- United Democratic Movement (UDM) – 3 seats.
- African Transformation Movement (ATM) – 2 seats.
- Al Jama-ah – 2 seats.
- Build One South Africa (BOSA) – 2 seats.
- National Coloured Congress (NCC) – 2 seats.
- Rise Mzansi – 2 seats
- GOOD Party – 1 seat
- Pan Africanist Congress of Azania (PAC) – 1 seat
- United Africans Transformation (UTM) – 1 seat
Winners of the National Assembly votes by each region are as follows (percentages as at 7pm on Sunday):
- Eastern Cape – ANC with 62.42% of the vote, 16 seats.
- Free State – ANC with 52.56% of the vote, 6 seats.
- Gauteng – ANC with 34.62% of the vote, 17 seats.
- KwaZulu-Natal – MK Party with 44.91% of the vote, 19 seats
- Mpumalanga – ANC with 51.31% of the vote, 8 seats.
- Northern Cape – ANC with 49.47% of the vote, 3 seats.
- Limpopo – ANC with 73.38% of the vote, 16 seats.
- North West – ANC 58.29% of the vote, 8 seats.
- Western Cape – DA with 53.37% of the vote, 14 seats
The winners of the provincial legislatures are as follows:
- Eastern Cape – ANC to lead the legislature with 45 seats won.
- Free State – ANC to lead the legislature with 16 seats won.
- Gauteng – ANC to lead the legislature with 28 seats won.
- KwaZulu-Natal – MK Party to lead the legislature with 37 seats won.
- Mpumalanga – ANC to lead the legislature with 27 won.
- Northern Cape – ANC to lead the legislature with 15 seats won
- Limpopo – ANC to lead the legislature with 48 seats won.
- North West – ANC to lead the legislature with 23 seats won.
- Western Cape – DA to lead the legislature with 24 seats won.
“After carefully considering the extensive measures put in place and acknowledging the provisions of section 57(3) of the Electoral Act 1998, the commission declares the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, free and fair,” IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya said during the results announcement programme.
The list of elected public representatives was handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the ceremony.
On Thursday, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is expected to officially receive the lists of designated Members of Parliament from the IEC in preparation for the first sitting of the National Assembly, which he will preside over. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 19:30
6668 views
2024 election results a victory for democracy
2024 election results a victory for democracy
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the final announcement of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections represents a victory for democracy, constitutional order and for all the people of South Africa.
Addressing the ceremony held to announce the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Election on Sunday, the President commended South Africans for participating in the elections, noting that by going to vote, they have taken responsibility not only for the future of themselves and their families, but for the future of their country.
He said South Africans have shown how important their vote is and that they know that their vote counts.
The President said through their votes citizens have demonstrated clearly and plainly that the country’s democracy is strong, robust, and enduring.
“They have given effect to the clarion call that has resonated across the generations, that the people shall govern…. our people have spoken. As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes,” President Ramaphosa said at the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) Result Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand.
WATCH | 2024 National and Provincial Elections results announcement
He added that the elections - which took place on Wednesday, 29 May and were preceded by in-country special votes on Monday and Tuesday - have reaffirmed the fact that building a South Africa for all remains the defining mission of the nation.
The President noted that over the course of the election campaign, parties and candidates have at times differed, often forcefully, and expressed a wide variety of views that are often at odds with each other.
He said throughout the election campaign, parties and candidates have held fast to the fundamental principles of democracy and have affirmed the right of voters to participate in an election that is free, fair, and peaceful.
The will of the people
The President called upon political parties to recognise the results of the election, saying they reflect the will of the people.
“What this election has made plain is that the people of South Africa expect their leaders to work together to meet their needs. They expect the parties for which they have voted to find common ground, to overcome their differences, to act and work together for the good of everyone.
“Our people expect all parties to work together within the framework of our constitution and address whatever challenges we encounter peacefully and in accordance with the prescripts of our constitution and the rule of law. Each party emerges from this election with a mandate based on the commitments they each made to the electorate,” President Ramaphosa said.
Partnerships
However, President Ramaphosa emphasised that all the parties must work in partnership with each other and with society more broadly, to build a country that is inclusive, united, and prosperous.
“As we take up our seats in Parliament and in the provincial legislatures, let us appreciate that the seats we occupy do not belong to us, [but] they belong to the people. Whatever authority, whatever power, we are entrusted with must be exercised to advance the interests of the people,” President Ramaphosa said.
Praise for IEC, law enforcement parties and independents
The President commended the IEC for its excellence, professionalism and integrity, despite many challenges.
“As the 2024 election reaches its conclusion, we thank the staff and leadership of the Independent Electoral Commission, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of these elections, often under difficult conditions.
“We pay tribute to the men and women of the South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force for ensuring peace and stability during voting, and to the Home Affairs staff who ensured that as many voters as possible had their identity documents on Election Day,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President expressed his gratitude to independent candidates and leaders and members of the various political parties that participated in the elections.
“I wish to thank all the local and international observer teams, who gave their time and effort to ensure a free and fair election. I also thank the journalists, researchers, camera persons, producers, analysts, and other members of the media, who played such an essential role in ensuring that the South African people were well informed as they went to vote.
“Above all, we thank the people of South Africa for once again giving life and meaning to the values and principles of our constitutional democracy,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 19:38
10755 views
Elections tested the country’s institutions, citizens’ resolve
Elections tested the country’s institutions, citizens' resolve
The 2024 Elections have tested the strength of the country’s institutions, the integrity of systems and the resolve of citizens, says Electoral Commission of South Africa Chairperson Mosotho Moepya.
“These elections were undoubtedly the most highly contested,” Moepya said, speaking at the announcement of the results of the National and Provincial Elections at the national Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand this evening.
Moepya, who declared the elections free and fair, said there were many challenges the commission had to overcome during the voting process.
“As a nation, we have emerged triumphant, having conducted these elections with the utmost transparency, fairness and adherence to the highest standards of democratic practice,” Moepya said.
The path to this moment, he said, has been paved by the sacrifices of those who came before and the unwavering belief in the power of the people's will.
“Just as the watershed elections of 1994 laid the foundation for our democratic order, the 2024 elections mark a milestone in the continued growth and maturation of our nation's electoral process.
“Throughout this endeavour, the Electoral Commission of South Africa has never sought to waver from its commitment to deliver elections compliant with South Africa’s constitutional order. To do this, the Electoral Commission put significant measures in place to safeguard these elections.”
Moepya said journey to this point was not without its challenges.
“It sometimes entailed concerted [and] significant attacks on members and key staff of the commission, attempts to undermine the credibility of this institution, relentless and targeted social media attacks, disinformation campaigns, unwarranted allegations and sometimes what appeared to be acts of intimidation.
“As an institution with an enormous amount of responsibility to the nation we all love and proudly call home, we persevered and remained focused on the challenges before us.
“We remain grateful to all of you, for your kind thoughts, encouragement, correction and prayers throughout this journey.”
He said the commission remained steadfast in the country’s Constitutional mandate, rising above the distractions, to ensure that the will of the people was accurately reflected in the results of these elections.
“In any election, the most anxious moments come with the declaration of the election results. South Africa’s nascent democracy has experienced one of the most peaceful electoral periods in recent times.
“For this, we thank all her people. You have enabled us to truly capture a climate in which elections could be held,” he said.
Held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the elections saw millions of eligible voters across the country making their way to more than 23 000 polling stations to cast their votes in the much-contested seventh democratic elections. Citizens living abroad and those requiring special votes cast their votes ahead of the main Voting Day, ensuring that all eligible voters have a chance to make their voices heard and play a part in strengthening democracy. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 19:50
129 views
Security Cluster ready to enforce law and order
Security Cluster ready to enforce law and order
The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster says it stands ready to deal with any threats of instability ahead of the declaration of the election results in Midrand this evening.
“As the Security Cluster, we assure South Africans that law enforcement agencies stand ready to maintain peace and stability, as they have done throughout the election period.
“Any attempt to undermine the authority of the State and South Africa’s constitutional order will not be tolerated and will be dealt with accordingly,” Cele assured citizens on Sunday.
The Minister outlined measures taken by law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and stability during the election process.
WATCH |
As the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) prepares to announce the election results, Cele stated that the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has confirmed its readiness to ensure a peaceful environment following the election results declaration.
“We would like to assure the country that the Constitution provides the mandate to manage the elections to the IEC. Therefore, the decision to declare the results rests solely with the IEC, in accordance with the law.”
In addition, the Minister said the law provides mechanisms to raise disputes with the electoral processes and only those prescribed processes must be followed.
“As such, there cannot be any room for threats of instability to register objections or concerns about the electoral process.”
READ | IEC receives 579 objections
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise emphasised respect for the Constitution and each other’s rights.
She told journalists that while they have not singled out any party for engagement ahead of the release of the results, they have reiterated their calls for the respect for the rule of law.
“We have, before the elections, called for calm. We have also asked people not to do that which is not legal in this country. We had also indicated that we would not tolerate anybody breaching or tarnishing the name of South Africa thus far because we have always behaved according to our Constitution in the past elections.”
Modise appealed to all parties and citizens to respect the rights of others.
“We are hoping that our plea to all parties involved will be heard by everybody involved… We do not think that we want to have a conversation across or with one individual party. We are appealing to South Africans to respect the laws of South Africa,” the Defence Minister pleaded.
Modise said her department had learnt lessons from the unrest in July 2021.
“There were some issues [during the July 2021 unrest]. We arrived a little bit late as the Defence Department. I can assure you that that was a good lesson. We are not late these days. We get there on time, when needed. We are prepared. We don’t have to have help from somewhere else to get to where we are going. We have said that we will not tolerate anybody interfering with the rights of the rest of the citizens,” Modise said.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, emphasised that nobody was exempt from the law.
“… Anybody who threatens the security or the stability of the country, anybody who wants to undermine the constitutional order of the country, irrespective of who they are… the law enforcement will have to deal with them.”
According to Ntshavheni, all political parties signed a code of conduct that prescribes how they must conduct themselves.
“… The violation of the code of conduct will then be enforced because that’s what all political parties agreed to before we entered this phase of the elections.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 16:19
417 views
Stage set for final election results
Stage set for final election results
The stage is set at the Electoral Commission’s (IEC) National Results Operations Centre (ROC) in Midrand, as South Africa waits with baited breath for the results of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
Held on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the elections saw millions of eligible voters across the country making their way to more than 23 000 polling stations to cast their votes in the much-contested seventh democratic elections.
The ceremony for the announcement of the results is expected to start at 6pm.
This after the capturing and validating of votes concluded late evening on Saturday.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver an address during the ceremony.
Among the government Ministers who have arrived at the venue are Police Minister Bheki Cele and Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
This year’s elections recorded a total of 568 374 newly registered voters, including those aged 16 – 29 years, who accounted for 445 089 of the newly registered voters. There were over 27 million registered voters on the voters' roll. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 17:41
310 views
Ninety arrested over the course of 2024 elections
Ninety arrested over the course of 2024 elections
Ninety people were arrested over the three days of elections earlier this week, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said on Sunday.
On the first day of special votes on Monday, police registered 26 cases and arrested 24 people.
On the second day of special votes on Tuesday, police logged 32 cases, and nine people were detained.
On Election Day on Wednesday, 29 May, 37 cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 57 individuals.
In total, police arrested 90 people of which the majority have since been released on bail.
“Twenty-two are still inside as we speak and that is all about the matters of cases during the three days of the election,” explained Masemola.
The Commissioner was speaking at the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) media briefing on the third phase of its 2024 National and Provincial Elections operational activities.
The briefing came hours before Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) was set to release the results of the hotly contested elections.
READ | SA awaits election results
The Ministers of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster said they had received an evaluation from the NATJOINTS regarding the security situation in the country since the elections.
“We are satisfied with how law enforcement agencies prevented and responded to incidents that would have otherwise tarnished the seventh General Elections in the country,” Police Minister Bheki Cele said at the briefing held in Pretoria.
He said the NATJOINTS also briefed the Ministers of the Security Cluster on their preparedness to assure the safety and security of the country in the post-election phase.
The security cluster stands ready to deal with any instability ahead of the declaration of the election results in Midrand this evening. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/02/2024 - 16:23
69 views
SA awaits election results
SA awaits election results
All eyes are on the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) as South Africans eagerly await the outcome of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
The official results are expected to be announced at the commission’s Results Operations Centre in Midrand on Sunday evening.
Millions of eligible voters across the country made their mark at more than 23 000 polling stations in South Africa's seventh democratic elections on Wednesday.
This followed two successful days of special votes, which saw South Africans who had registered for a special vote making their mark at 22 626 voting stations and during home visits across the country.
Voting abroad took place between 17 and 18 May 2024 in 111 South African missions across the world.
Observers, from both South Africa and other countries, have closely monitored the electoral process.
At a media briefing, the commission said the release of the official results on the fourth day after Election Day was to factor in the third ballot and to deal with the 50% additional work imposed by the third ballot. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 15:19
206 views
President signs law allowing emergency access to retirement funds
President signs law allowing emergency access to retirement funds
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill of 2023, which establishes a “two-pot” system that gives members of retirement funds access to retirement savings without having to resign or cash out entire pension funds.
The amendment law introduces a “two-pot” retirement system to address the concerns related to lack of preservation before retirement and lack of access to retirement funds by households in financial distress.
According to a statement by the Presidency, this retirement system comprises a savings and retirement component for contributions made after 1 September 2024, while historical retirement benefits will be housed in a vested component.
Individuals will have access to amounts in the savings component before retirement for times of financial distress, and the amounts in the retirement component are preserved until retirement.
“The primary objective of the two-pot retirement system is to provide flexibility for fund members to access their retirement savings during emergencies, without necessitating resignation.
“The reform introduced by the legislation strives to strike a balance between long-term security and immediate needs, recognising life's unpredictability,” said the Presidency.
It permits fund members to access a portion of their savings during crises, such as those seen during the COVID-19 challenges.
These changes ensure the retirement system remains responsive to diverse financial needs, supporting both long-term financial security and immediate assistance during emergencies.
Traditional retirement systems primarily focus on long-term savings, often lacking the adaptability to address immediate financial crises.
President Ramaphosa said: “While we are continuing the task of growing our economy to create more opportunities for all South Africans and reduce the financial vulnerability affecting many individuals and households, the new retirement system offers protection and dignity to those who need it the most to overcome financial stress.”
South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill
Meanwhile, the President has also signed into law the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill, which effects a number of amendments that bring South Africa in line with the World Anti-Doping Code of 2021.
The World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) role is to promote, coordinate, and monitor the fight against drugs in sports.
The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) is a public entity under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and is defined in the amended legislation as the national anti-doping organisation.
The legislative amendment also clarifies the powers of SAIDS.
The SAIDS has major role to play in preventing the use of prohibited substances in the South African and international sporting environment that are contrary to the principles of fair play and the health and well-being of athletes.
The amendments enacted by President Ramaphosa have been induced by a World Anti-Doping Agency review of relevant South African legislation in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 16:31
1462 views
Suspect wanted for COVID-19 TERS fraud arrested at border
Suspect wanted for COVID-19 TERS fraud arrested at border
Members of the Border Management Authority (BMA) on Thursday arrested a man at the Ramatlabama border post between South Africa and Botswana for alleged COVID-19 Temporary Employer/ Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) fraud.
Tokelo Winston Frederick Modiboa, who has been on the run since November 2022, joins 20 other accused implicated in the COVID-19 TERS fraudulent claims which occurred between the years 2020 and 2021.
According to a statement by the police, the 59-year-old appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on Friday and is facing charges of fraud.
An investigation by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation revealed that Modiboa received payments from three main accused - Kegomoditswe Parisian Moselane (36), Irving Ikgopoleng Mongale (46) and Khotjwe Goodwin Motsei (50) - who submitted fraudulent claims for their alleged employees.
The police said Moselane allegedly submitted fraudulent claims in the amount of R271 000 from the Department of Employment and Labour for 47 individuals who have never worked for her company.
The investigation further uncovered that Moselane transferred money into the bank accounts of seven other accused, including Modiboa who received R27 000.
Seven suspects were arrested in November 2022 by the Hawks' Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit in collaboration with the Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS).
Further investigation revealed that Modiboa received R34 000 from Mongale, who had claimed R970 000 from the department for 150 individuals who were never employees at his company.
The money was transferred to 13 other accused who have since been arrested and are out on bail.
Modiboa further received R89 500 from Khotjwe Goodwin Motsei who fraudulently claimed over R1 million for 133 individuals whom he alleged to be his employees. The funds were transferred to 11 other suspects who were arrested in November 2022 and are also out on bail.
“This brings the total number of suspects arrested for COVID-19 TERS fraudulent claims to 21. All the accused have been charged with fraud. Modiboa was remanded in custody and will appear in court on 5 June 2024,” said the police. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sat, 06/01/2024 - 16:52
258 views