THE PERSECUTION AND ILLEGAL SUSPENSION OF RAF CEO MR COLLINS LETSOALO @KASIBC_NEWS

THE PERSECUTION AND ILLEGAL SUSPENSION OF RAF CEO MR COLLINS LETSOALO @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) condemns, in the strongest terms, the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Board placing their Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Collins Letsoalo, on special leave.  According to the Board, this is a “precautionary” measure pending the investigation of allegations of corruption, and yet the circumstances show that this is merely a witch hunt designed to tarnish Letsoalo’s reputation for his stellar work in uncovering the rot within the RAF. According to the RAF Board, in their submission to Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA),  Letsoalo has been placed on "special leave", a leave he has not applied for nor consented to. 

This action taken without procedural fairness, reveals the orchestrated attempt to create a public perception of wrongdoing where none has been proven. Even more disturbing is the revelation that the preliminary report on these allegations of corruption presented by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) contains mere allegations that are untested and unproven.  

The Department of Transport itself has admitted that the SIU has not briefed them on the contents of this report, nor has the RAF been afforded the courtesy or the right to respond to the claims contained within it. 

This clear disregard for due process reinforces that Letsoalo is being subjected to trial by innuendo, not by evidence. Letsoalo is not only being targeted for his transformation work at the RAF, but also for his bold stance against corruption within the judiciary. During his tenure, he has publicly raised uncomfortable truths about the rot and collusion within parts of the judicial system and the RAF where certain judges and legal practitioners collude in false RAF claims, steal money from claimants, and have set up complex fraudulent medico-legal networks and systems to drain the fund. 

Furthermore, Letsoalo has done commendable work in restoring financial order and operational efficiency at the RAF. It is the EFF’s contention that instead of being supported for exposing these critical issues and attempting to create a clean bill of governance in the RAF, Letsoalo is now being silenced and sidelined. His forced "special leave" is a direct attempt to punish him for speaking out against judicial corruption, and to send a chilling message to any executive who dares to challenge these corrupt networks of power. 

The EFF will not allow this suppression of truth to go unchallenged. It is also no coincidence that these spurious allegations are being circulated mere months before the conclusion of Mr. Letsoalo’s term in August. 

This is a desperate attempt to cast a cloud of suspicion over him, to discredit his legacy, and to prevent his reappointment. As a result, the EFF will formally write to the Minister of Transport to demand a full and transparent explanation of the circumstances surrounding Letsoalo’s so-called “special leave,” including who authorized it, under what grounds, and why due process was blatantly ignored. We will also call for the matter to be urgently tabled before the Portfolio Committee on Transport, where the Minister and the RAF Board must account for this unlawful and vindictive action; and to respond to the revelations of corruption that Letsoalo has uncovered that is occurring under their watch. 

The EFF demands that all allegations be subjected to fair and transparent processes, and that the rights of the accused be respected. 

THE UPSURGE OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AND FEMICIDE @KASIBC_NEWS

THE UPSURGE OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AND FEMICIDE @KASIBC_NEWS 

The ANC Women's League is deeply concerned with the highest rate in which violence is meted out against women, where men both in spousal and non-spousal relationships prey on women like vultures with no regard for human life. South Africa has steadily become a murder site which has been defined by the Gender and Health Research Unit of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), in its twenty (20) year study, as an extreme form of Gender Based Violence.   

The four (4) surveys of the SAMRC have used the same methodology and definition of femicide over a period of twenty (20) years since 1999, in which they concluded that four women were killed by intimate partners every day, and the trend only decreased to three (3) women in the third survey of 2009.   However, the fourth study which coincided with the first year of COVID19, saw a small but significant increase in the murder of women by intimate partners. 

The SAMRC further made a provincial breakdown of its research with provinces such as the Eastern Cape and Gauteng reporting significant increases. These statistics from credible institutions which are collaborated by the South African Police Service (SAPS) are a shame and an embarrassment to a country that boasts one of the most revered constitutional democracies in the world. Chapter two (2) of our country’s constitution guarantees the right to life as the most basic, the most fundamental and the most supreme right which human beings are entitled to, as an essential pre-requisite to the full enjoyment of all other human rights. It is therefore perturbing to witness such heinous attacks on defenceless women which has now reached pandemic levels, yet we pride ourselves with institutions which are intended to protect the rights of all citizens, particularly the vulnerable. 

The ANC Women’s League has also noted an upsurge in violence against women from non-spousal relationships, where women are lured in social media by unknown men and courted into secluded locations. We thus make a call to women in general to be extra vigilant of going out with people they made acquaintance with online, and to opt for public places when going to private excursions on their first date, with lots of activity and people in case of any eventuality. 

A recent incident of Olorato Mongale from Johannesburg in Gauteng - who went out on a date with a man only known as a “John”, who drove a VW Polo fitted with a cloned number plate found to be belonging to a different vehicle - is an indication of a cruel society that has no regard for human life, especially that of a woman. Olorato’s tragic killing is one of many incidents where women are enticed by men through social media platforms whilst the villain has dubious plans for the victim disguised as a ‘date’. 

The ANC Women’s League would like to caution women to always inform a friend, share location or family member every time they go out on a date, especially their first date with someone they have just met, and make an effort to meet in public places. 

We further plead with our male counterparts for compassion and to have mercy on women, for “every seed of success in a nation, is best planted in a woman”  

ICT POLICY REFORMS AND COMMITS TO DEFENDING TRANSFORMATION AND ECONOMIC INCLUSION @KASIBC_NEWS

ICT POLICY REFORMS AND COMMITS TO DEFENDING TRANSFORMATION AND ECONOMIC INCLUSION @KASIBC_NEWS 

The African National Congress (ANC) notes the recent publication of draft policy directives in the ICT sector, particularly those relating to the licensing of Individual Electronic Communications Network Licences (IECNLs) and the proposed Equity Equivalent Programme (EEP). These developments mark an important phase in shaping a digital future that must be inclusive, transformative, and people-centred. 

The ANC will actively participate in the forthcoming consultative processes to ensure that the transformation agenda is upheld and that the economic inclusion of historically disadvantaged communities is comprehensive, meaningful, and irreversible. 

These engagements will be guided by the principles set out in the Freedom Charter, the ANC Election Manifesto, and the 55th National Conference Resolutions. We further note that these are not new ideas, they are part of a consistent ANC-led transformation agenda to include historically excluded South Africans in the digital economy. EEIP enables multinational companies that cannot sell direct equity to invest in enterprise development, black industrialists, youth and women in ICT, skills training, and innovation. 

Already, since 2005: 

• Over R8 billion has been invested in the economy • Over 2,000 jobs created 

• Over 85 black-owned enterprises supported 

• 4 black industrialists created 

• Hundreds of students have gained critical ICT skills The Draft Policy Directive on IECNLs—opening space for satellite-based broadband services—offers a significant opportunity to bridge South Africa’s digital divide. If implemented equitably, satellite broadband will bring life-changing benefits to rural, remote, and underserved communities by enabling: 

• Expanded access to e-learning and digital literacy • Enhanced telemedicine and primary healthcare support 

• Greater adoption of smart farming and agro-technologies 

• Digital growth of rural SMMEs and local economic development 

However, the ANC emphasises that digital expansion must be anchored in transformation. We reiterate our support for the 30% minimum equity ownership by historically disadvantaged persons (HDPs) as required by Section 9(b) of the Electronic Communications Act (ECA). 

This must include youth, women, and persons with disabilities—both as beneficiaries and participants in the ownership and operation of ICT infrastructure. Transformation must not be reduced to a tick-box exercise. 

It requires proactive and deliberate support for: 

• Black-owned ICT enterprises and cooperatives 

• Supplier development and value chain inclusion 

• Youth digital skills training and employment 

• Township and rural connectivity rollouts 

We further emphasise the importance of ministerial concurrence and Cabinet approval in ensuring that the EEP aligns with national development objectives and avoids unintended dilution of transformation imperatives. 

Done correctly, these reforms can: 

• Catalyse job creation across ICT, health, education, and logistics sectors 

• Drive the localisation of manufacturing and content production 

• Deepen the participation of rural and township economies in the digital revolution 

• Enhance the global competitiveness of South African industries 

The ANC reaffirms that inclusive digital infrastructure is a cornerstone of building a developmental, capable, and transformative state. 

We call upon all stakeholders, including government departments, regulators, the private sector, and civil society to work in partnership to shape an ICT policy environment that delivers universal access, economic justice, and shared prosperity. 

The current phase of reform is a crucial opportunity for thoroughgoing empowerment and we will engage with clarity, commitment, and vigilance to ensure that no South African is left behind. 

COMMEMORATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF UNITED NATIONS PEACEKEEPERS @KASIBC_NEWS

COMMEMORATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF UNITED NATIONS PEACEKEEPERS @KASIBC_NEWS 

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms. Angie Motshekga, joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers. This event is observed annually on the 29th of May to honour the extraordinary contributions of UN Peacekeepers (commonly known as “Blue Helmets’) in promoting global peace and security. 

The United Nations marks the 77th anniversary of UN Peacekeeping under the theme: “Reviewing and Adapting UN Peacekeeping to Meet the Needs of the 21st Century.” It resonates deeply with us as South Africans, as it reflects not only the evolving global peace and security landscape, but also our own national journey of transition from conflict to democracy, which is built on principles of peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development. 

The Minister stated that “South Africa remains deeply committed to the ideals and objectives of United Nations peacekeeping. Our participation in these missions reflects our belief in the values of human dignity, regional stability, and international cooperation. We honour the bravery of those who have worn the Blue Helmet and laid down their lives for the cause of peace. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten.” 

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will observe this important day through a wreath laying ceremony at the Wall of Remembrance, which is situated at the Mobilisation Centre in De Brug (Bloemfontein) on the 29th of May 2025. 

This moment of reflection is an expression of our gratitude to all SANDF personnel who have served in UN peacekeeping operations under difficult and dangerous conditions. 

As South Africans, we stand proud of our role in the United Nations peacekeeping architecture and reaffirm our commitment to working toward a continent and world where peace is not a privilege, but a right enjoyed by all. 

BBBEE LEGISLATION FOR ELON MUSK’S STARLINK @KASIBC_NEWS

BBBEE LEGISLATION FOR ELON MUSK’S STARLINK @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is pleased with proceedings of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies meeting, wherein majority of political parties expressed their displeasure and rejection of the attempted work around of the Electronic Communications Act and the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act by Minister Solly Malatsi, in order to accommodate Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite company. 

Today, on the 27th of May 2025 Minister Malatsi appeared before the committee to account for the gazetting of his Ministerial Policy Directive, wherein he expresses his intention to “align” the Electronic Communications Act and ICT Sector Code, in order to allow foreign telecommunications entities to operate in South Africa without complying to licensing laws that require 30% local ownership by previously disadvantaged groups, and instead, pursue presence in our country using Equity Equivalents as permitted for other sectors by the B-BBEE Act. 

In what can only be described as an unlawful attempt at subverting the powers of the Parliament of South Africa by using a Ministerial Policy Directive, Minister Malatsi characterises the amendments he wants to make to two Acts of Parliament, as regulatory alignment. 

When pressed by the EFF as to whether he is not attempting to effect amendments to law and referring to these amendments as “policy alignment”, the Minister provided an inadequate response. More importantly however, Minister Malatsi conceded that the advice he received from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) was that it would be desirable that the Minister pursue his attempted alignment through an amendment of the Electronic Communications Act which stipulates 30% local ownership participation in order for licensing to be granted, and not his underhanded attempt to force an anti-transformation participation of Starlink in South Africa’s telecommunications sector. 

The fact that the regulatory authority is alive to the legislative irregularity of the Minister’s attempts, means there is certainty that the only lawful mechanism for Starlink to exist in South Africa is through full compliance with our laws, or through a legally sound amendment of legislation. No other mechanism, including a Ministerial Directive can ease conditions for Starlink to operate in our country. 

The EFF further raised political concerns about the presence of Starlink in South Africa, which is owned by an individual who has peddled disinformation about our country, expressed his disdain for transformation, and would operate without any guarantees to jobs in the local telecommunications industry. Additionally, there was a resounding call from the Committee expressing a clear rejection of Starlink in South Africa, and any attempt to subvert legislation by abusing Executive powers and undercutting the will of the people, which rests in the hands of Parliament. 

The EFF will therefore continue to oppose, both in Parliament and if necessary, in the courts, any introduction of Starlink in South Africa which is not compliant with the laws of our country. Elon Musk’s Starlink, which was demanded by Johann Rupert at the Oval Office represents a national security threat, a threat to local jobs, and a threat to sovereignty and independence, as Musk has attempted to coerce access to the South African market using disinformation of a non-existent white genocide as leverage. 

The EFF vows, that over and above legislative requirements, we will fight tooth and nail against corporate terror that uses access to diplomatic channels and Presidents to pursue business interests. 

We Say No To Starlink in South Africa!  

BLACK GENOCIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA @KASIBC_NEWS

BLACK GENOCIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) expresses its deep anger at the tragic killing of three young Black learners in Dalton, KwaZulu-Natal, by a white farmer who allegedly ran them over with his vehicle. Not only is this a criminal act but it is also a true reflection of the deep-rooted, racist violence that continues to plague South Africa. 

This heinous crime, which has devastated the families concerned and the larger community, has exposed the real violence in this country. It is the violence against a landless Black majority still subjected to the brutality of white landowners who view Black lives as disposable. 

The incident in Dalton is not isolated. Across the country, we have witnessed multiple cases where white farmers have targeted Black people. In 2017, two white men in Mpumalanga were arrested for forcing a young Black man into a coffin and threatening to set it alight; in 2016, two white farmers in North West dragged a 9-year-old black boy behind a bakkie after accusing him of stealing a sunflower; and in 2024 a six  year old was run over by a white farmer in the Western Cape after being accused him of stealing an orange. 

These are a few of many more, highlighting a clear pattern of systemic violence against Black people, especially the young, by individuals emboldened by centuries of unchallenged white supremacy. 

However, even in the face of this horror, South Africans are forced to endure false narratives of so-called “white genocide.” These lies, peddled to distract from the truth of white impunity, are used to silence Black pain and shield the real perpetrators of violence. 

In reality, it is Black people, particularly the rural poor, who face daily humiliation, abuse, and now, in Dalton, murder. 

The EFF is further appalled to learn that following the murder of these young learners, the suspect’s family allegedly offered R20,000 and gifts to one of the grieving families. This is an immense insult that seeks to cheapen Black life and buy silence. 

Therefore, the EFF demands justice for these young learners and their families. While the local police have acknowledged the arrest of the man in question, we demand a thorough investigation, and prosecution of the white farmer responsible for this massacre. 

We further demand a full investigation into why such acts continue with impunity in a democratic South Africa, as Dalton community members have stated that this was not this farmer’s first violent incident. 

 The EFF sends our deepest condolences to the families of the victims, and we assure them we stand with them and will do so until they receive justice in its fullest form.  

STATUS OF SECURITY SERVICES IN MOGALE MUNICIPALITY @KASIBC_NEWS

STATUS OF SECURITY SERVICES IN MOGALE MUNICIPALITY @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Executive Mayor, Lucky Sele, acknowledges recent developments regarding the provision of security services within Mogale City Local Municipality, a matter of significant operational importance that directly affects the safety of municipal employees as well as members of the public who rely on our facilities for service delivery. Legal Clarification and Draft Order (16 May 2025): In terms of the order dated 16 May 2025, it is important to clarify that neither Mabotwane Security Services CC nor Wenzile Phaphama Trading and Projects CC currently holds jurisdiction or legal authority to provide security services to Mogale City Local Municipality. Both entities have been prohibited from rendering services pending the outcome of the Judicial Review initiated by the applicant. 

This legal position is binding and will remain in force until such time that the court concludes the review process and makes a final ruling. The municipality is therefore guided by this court directive in all matters relating to the provision and procurement of security services. 

Current Status and Way Forward: 

The municipality is currently navigating this matter within the confines of legal prescripts and remains committed to upholding transparent, fair, and compliant procurement practices. 

Alternative measures are being explored to ensure uninterrupted security coverage during this period of legal uncertainty. The safety of municipal staff and the public remains a top priority, and contingency arrangements are being pursued to mitigate any potential risks during this transitional phase. 

To this end, the Municipal Manager as per the Municipal Systems Act has effected an extension to the scope of Inyanda Yemikhonto, which is the company charged with highlevel security services in the municipality, to safeguard municipal assets until the decision of  the Judicial Review. 

 Conclusion: “It is unfortunate that the abovementioned security service companies, in their pursuit of commercial interests, have contributed to the growing tensions between the municipality and our community. 

These companies have employed individuals residing in Mogale City - many of whom rely on this work as their sole means of livelihood. As a result, their continued legal battles have had social consequences that extend beyond the courtroom,” said the Executive Mayor Lucky Sele. 

The municipality remains committed to restoring stability, ensuring fairness, and protecting the integrity of public service. 

We appeal for patience and cooperation from all stakeholders as we work toward a sustainable and legally sound resolution that protects both the municipality’s interests and the well-being of its people. 

DA FEDEX REJECTS LAND EXPROPRIATION @KASIBC_NEWS

DA FEDEX REJECTS LAND EXPROPRIATION @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Democratic Alliance Federal Council, the highest policy and decision-making body in the DA between Federal Congresses, passed a motion to affirm the Party’s longstanding position against Expropriation of Property Without Compensation.

The Federal Council unanimously approved the motion which confirms our support for Section 25 of the Constitution, and the well-established DA position that just and equitable compensation adjudicated by a court of law must be paid for any expropriation.

The motion which the DA Federal Council passed unanimously reads as follows:

Acknowledging that secure private property rights under the rule of law are essential to fixed investment, economic growth, job creation, and better living standards for the people of South Africa, the Democratic Alliance (DA):

(1) Supports section 25 of The Constitution of South Africa.

(2) Asserts our support that compensation must be just and equitable, as adjudicated by a court of law, in cases of expropriation in terms of the Constitution;

(3) Rejects the notion of ‘nil compensation’ as established by the Expropriation Act, 2024 as well as the limitations placed by the Act on rights of private property owners in contesting the terms of expropriation in court; and

(4) Supports the existing efforts of the DA to take the Expropriation Act, 2024 on judicial review and explore every other opportunity to render the Act less of a risk to private property rights.

The DA continues in our court case challenging the constitutionality of the Expropriation Act in the High Court.

The DA will continue to fight against expropriation without compensation, in every way that we can.

Note to Editors:

The DA Federal Council is a 149 member body, constituted of the party’s national leadership, as well as representatives of:

• the DA in all nine provinces,
• the ancillary bodies of the DA,
• DA public representatives of all three spheres of government, and
• non-public representative members of the DA.

WESTERN CAPE WAR ZONE @KASIBC_NEWS

WESTERN CAPE WAR ZONE @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Democratic Alliance(DA) in the Western Cape calls for the immediate devolution of SAPS policing powers to competent local authorities. Localised control of police resources, crime intelligence, and operational command will ensure a better, faster, and more accountable response to the unique challenges faced by our province.

The devastating surge in violence across the Cape Flats this past weekend has once again underlined the urgent need for a fundamental shift in how gang violence is tackled in our communities.

Between Friday, 23 May, and Sunday, 25 May 2025, there were a confirmed:
• 26 murders
• 58 attempted murders
• 84 confirmed gang-related incidents
• 27 separate shooting incidents where no injuries were reported

These figures constitute an emergency, and demonstrate that the unique safety challenges in the Western Cape require a tailored response. While these brazen acts of violence occur almost daily, conviction rates remain dismally low, and illegal firearms continue to pour into our neighbourhoods.

Despite these challenges, local interventions such as the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) have made a measurable impact - even while operating beyond their official mandate. Since inception 2020 up to 16 February 2025:
• 745 firearms, including zip guns, have been confiscated
• 40,065 arrests have been made
• Drugs worth over R10 million have been removed from our streets

These efforts highlight the dedication and capability of local and provincial authorities. But without structural reform and a shift in policing powers, we are fighting this war with one hand tied behind our backs.

Thomas Walters, MPP said: “National government must allow capable provincial local governments - such as the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government to assume a greater role in gang investigations, forensics, and intelligence.

In the interim, I will write to the National Minister of Police to request that SAPS prioritises the Western Cape in its national resourcing strategy. Our police stations are undermanned and outgunned, and we are placing our brave officers in a position where they do not have the support that they require to fulfil SAPS’ mandate and keep communities safe.

We will request a clear action plan from SAPS within 90 days, detailing how additional resources will be allocated, with timelines for implementation. I will also, upon receipt of such a plan, invite SAPS to present the plan to the Standing Committee on Police Oversight and Community Safety, so that it can be properly interrogated by the representatives of the people of the Western Cape.”

Anyone with information that can lead to arrests is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application anonymously

Disclosure of qualifications of North West Government officials @KASIBC_NEWS

Disclosure of qualifications of North West Government officials @KASIBC_NEWS 

The DA has written to the North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi demanding a full disclosure of the qualifications of all staff members in his office.

This after the Public Service Commission (PSC) reported that 36% of personnel in the Premier’s Office are unqualified for their positions. It was further revealed that 9% of senior managers across the provinces' 12 departments lack the necessary qualifications for their roles.

The DA has long emphasised the need for transparency in government appointments, particularly in the North West, which remains South Africa’s most underperforming province due to rampant unemployment, economic decline, and systemic governance failures. The DA previously demanded vetting reports on all NW senior managers but received no response.

The severity of the ongoing crisis in the North West Province prompted national government to intervene in 2018 under sections 100(1) and 100(10) of the Constitution, leading to the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) to assess provincial departments. Despite these measures, the province continues to regress, with the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey confirming a staggering 56% unemployment rate - the highest in the country. This alarming figure underscores the dire consequences of placing unqualified cadres in critical government roles.

While Premier Mokgosi’s office has dismissed the PSC’s findings, claiming that all senior managers meet minimum requirements and attributed the discrepancies in the report to “data inaccuracies", the DA maintains that only an independent, verifiable audit can restore public trust.

In the report requested by the DA, the Premier must provide a detailed breakdown of each employee’s academic and professional credentials, their dates of appointment and the qualifications they possessed at the time of appointment. Additionally, the DA will require copies of the original vacancy advertisements to assess whether the stated requirements align with the appointments made.

The DA remains committed to exposing maladministration and ensuring that those entrusted with public service are fully qualified to fulfil their mandates.

The people of North West deserve a government led by competent, ethical officials who prioritise service delivery over political patronage.

RIVERLEA HIGH SCHOOL FIRE INCIDENT, AND SCHOOLS OF SPECIALISATION FUNDING @KASIBC_NEWS

RIVERLEA HIGH SCHOOL FIRE INCIDENT, AND SCHOOLS OF SPECIALISATION FUNDING @KASIBC_NEWS 

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) wishes to address a series of matters concerning Unity Secondary School in Daveyton, the fire incident at Riverlea High School, and recent concerns related to the resourcing and sustainability of Schools of Specialisation (SoS) across the province. 

The Department remains committed to transparency, accountability, and continued engagement with stakeholders to ensure the delivery of quality education and safe learning environments throughout Gauteng. Unity Secondary School, Daveyton 

The Department wishes to acknowledge concerning allegations that teaching posts were being sold at the Unity Secondary School in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni. This follows a complaint that was received in November 2024 from an applicant who claimed to have been asked to deposit about R17 000 into the bank account of a certain teacher in exchange for a job at the said school. 

The implicated teacher denied any involvement, and with no further cooperation from the complainant, the matter was closed due to a lack of evidence. 

There were also concerns that parents were being forced to pay a R450 annual contribution to receive learner report cards. 

The Department received no formal complaints in this regard. Upon inquiry, it was confirmed that the contribution was a voluntary donation, agreed upon at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), with allowances for parents to contribute what they could afford. This practice is aligned with Section 37(1) of the South African Schools Act, 1996, which allows School Governing Bodies (SGB) to supplement state-provided resources. Furthermore, complaints about the SGB’s access to financial records were taken seriously. 

The Department thus conducted financial management and governance training on 1 April 2025, followed by a capacitation workshop by the National Department of Basic Education on 12 April 2025. After these interventions, all SGB members were granted access to the school’s financial statements, and communication structures were strengthened. 

In terms of academic performance and governance, the Department acknowledges the drop in the school’s matric pass rate from 98% in 2020 to 86% in 2024. Interventions have been implemented, including the establishment of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), teacher training in key subjects, curriculum support from subject advisors, and continued development through the Provincial Just-in-Time (JIT) training programme. Learners are also supported through Saturday and holiday programmes under the Secondary School Intervention Programme (SSIP), including residential camps for learners to enhance performance. Staffing concerns have also been addressed. 

The school currently has two vacant Departmental Head (DH)posts and one vacant Deputy Principal post. The DH posts were advertised in Vacancy Circular 2 of 2025, with an anticipated start date of 1 August 2025. The Deputy Principal post will be advertised mid-year. The Department has also verified the qualifications of the school principal, found them to be valid, and confirms that no disciplinary action was necessary. Regarding allegations of death threats against staff members, the Department temporarily accommodated affected staff at the District Office from late 2024. 

However, due to a lack of supporting evidence, the educators were instructed to return to school in 2025. Riverlea High School Fire Incident The GDE confirms that Riverlea High School experienced significant infrastructure damage due to a fire that broke out at the school on 27 April 2025. 

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) forensic unit. Supply Chain Management processes are still underway to reconstruct the school. However, to ensure minimal disruption to teaching and learning, four mobile classrooms were delivered to the school on 2 May 2025. Repairs are planned for completion during the 2025/26 financial year, with an estimated cost of around R2.5 million. As no repairs have begun, there are no expenditures to report at this time. 

The Department has implemented fire safety measures at the school. Fire blankets were delivered on 13 May 2025, and learners and staff have received basic firefighting training. 

The school has been equipped with first aid kits, and monthly checks ensure the availability of medical supplies. The school currently has limited fire safety infrastructure, with no fire alarm system due to financial constraints. The last fire safety inspection was not recorded prior to the incident, but plans are in place to collaborate with the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services in the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year for awareness and preparedness training for the School Safety Committee. Firefighting equipment was last serviced in May 2024 and is scheduled for its next service at the end of May 2025. 

LISTEN HERE @KASIBC_AUDIO 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y-xJgBXlEWvD_QdYKLFc45mb_OC6gAzO/view?usp=drivesdk

Maintenance remains a priority item at the school. Funding for Schools of Specialisation The GDE reduced funding to Schools of Specialisation (SoS), Due to broader budget constraints across sector. Despite this, the available budget will continue to support specialised subjects and prioritised needs in alignment with the business plans of these schools. As more schools are designated as SoS, resources must be spread more widely. In accordance with Section 36(1) of the South African Schools Act, 1996, SGBs are encouraged to supplement state funding to enhance educational quality. 

It is important to note that the Department continues to pay salaries for all state-employed educators and supports infrastructure costs, excluding minor maintenance at all SoS. Equipment purchases are to be made using allocated funds or sponsorships. In cases where SGBs employ additional educators for specialisation subjects, funds from the school’s allocation or private fundraising efforts are used. The Department does not maintain direct records of external sponsorships or donor funding for SoS, as public schools are juristic persons in terms of Section 15 of the South African Schools Act. 

This legal status grants schools the autonomy to enter into contracts, raise funds, and manage their own budgets under the governance of their SGBs. As such, while all Schools of Specialisation are expected to secure external sponsorships, the specifics of funding partners, amounts, or shortfalls fall within the remit of individual schools and their SGBs. Importantly, the Department affirms that there are no funding shortfalls for SoS, as all budgets and business plans are aligned. Any additional needs are to be addressed through the schools’ own fundraising initiatives. 

The Gauteng Department of Education remains resolute in its mission to provide quality, inclusive, and responsive education to all learners in the province. 

These issues are being attended to with the necessary diligence, and the Department continues to work collaboratively with school communities, School Governing Bodies, and relevant stakeholders to ensure accountability and improved outcomes across the system. 

TERMINATION OF SILAPHA WELLNESS PROGRAMME @KASIBC_NEWS

TERMINATION OF SILAPHA WELLNESS PROGRAMME @KASIBC_NEWS 

Following an investigation and directive from the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has terminated the Silapha Wellness Intervention Programme.  

The Programme was a three-year project offered to artists and sports people intended to assist them to access resources such as wellness counselling (including mental health, financial well-being, grief support, and performance anxiety), educational resources and assessments to help them identify their specific support needs on the wellness engagement platform, and 24/7 professional counselling services via a confidential call centre. 

The service provider was awarded a tender of R18,297,360 for three years and the department was paying a sum of R507,120.01 to the service provider each month. With serious questions raised about where and how the bulk of the money was being spent, as well as concerns about the actual impact of the programme, the Minister decided the money could be better spent elsewhere. 

The department is now actively seeking out alternatives to ensure that the families of artists and sports people can be assisted effectively in times of distress. 

Said Minister McKenzie: “We are exploring innovative ways of ensuring that we do more, and better, for our artists and athletes as a government. 

We are already seeing that impact and change in sports like boxing, which was badly neglected, but we also need to be more proactive with issues like the families of our legends needing support when they pass away. 

“We should be intentional about our plans and know how we will respond in these cases, to offer our athletes and creatives the kind of practical support that’s needed, when it’s really needed.”