Urgent Court Interdict against John Hlophe @KASIBCNEWS

Urgent Court Interdict against Jon Hlophe @KASIBCNEWS

The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the Western Cape High Court’s decision to grant an urgent interdict preventing Dr. John Hlophe from taking up his seat on the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). This is a landmark victory for the DA and for the integrity of South Africa’s judiciary.

The court's decision affirms our position and strengthens the fight to maintain the highest standards of integrity within our judiciary. An impeached judge, found guilty of gross misconduct, should not hold a position on the JSC, a body entrusted with the responsibility of selecting judges and upholding the highest standards of judicial integrity.

This ruling is a major step in safeguarding the independence and credibility of our judicial system. Allowing Dr. Hlophe, who was impeached after a long and contentious legal process, to influence the selection of future judges would have severely damaged public trust in our judiciary and compromised the principles that uphold our democracy.

Today’s ruling is a clear victory for all South Africans who believe in an impartial and ethical judiciary. It underscores that those tasked with overseeing and selecting our judges must be held to the highest standards of conduct. We remain committed to upholding the rule of law and defending the values enshrined in our Constitution.

The DA will continue in its fight to ensure that our judiciary remains independent, transparent, and free from political interference.

 

R1-billion New Driver’s Licence printing machines @KASIBCNEWS

R1-billion New Driver’s Licence printing machines @KASIBCNEWS 

In response to a RISE Mzansi parliamentary question, the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, has stated that the current driver’s licence production machines have reached the end of their lifespan, meaning that three new machines, totalling a cost of R1,003,223,784 need to be procured. Each machine costs R334,407,928.

RISE Mzansi is calling on the Minister of Transport to take the nation into her confidence and to be transparent, without interfering in the work of the bidding committee, by providing an update to South Africans on how far the process is, as the last update on this matter was given more than 3months ago on 10 June 2024.

In light of the current machines reaching their lifespan, RISE Mzansi can further disclose that between 2019/20 and 2023/24 R21,091,201,32 was spent maintaining the current equipment, with R870,000 budgeted for the current financial year.

What is vital with the new procurement is that the equipment is serviced and maintained locally so there are no delays in ensuring that South African drivers are able to obtain their driving permits without delays.

 

GAUTENG HEALTH JOURNEY CLEAN AUDIT

GAUTENG HEALTH JOURNEY CLEAN AUDIT @KASIBCNEWS

SERVICE DELIVERY 

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is committed to ongoing reforms to strengthen governance, procurement processes and service delivery in its journey towards a clean audit outcome. 

These reforms continue to be be implemented in the current financial year  (2024/25) in order to address audit findings and improve operational efficiency within the GDoH. They include comprehensive improvements in procurement systems and processes, contract and asset management, with the main focus being on enhancing compliance, reducing irregular expenditure, and addressing service delivery concerns, particularly in critical areas such as medical and  mental health services and food supply at facilites.

While the GDoH has maintained an unqualified audit opinion with findings in the  2023/24 reporting cycle, it is important to contexualise the position of the Department in regard to the audit outcome and various announcements that have been made regarding its overall performance.

The overall audit outcomes highlight improvements on financial statements in  which the number of areas where adjustment was required has improved from 7 in 2019 to only 4 in the 2023/24 reporting cycle. These include Movable Tangible  Capital Assets, Assets Under Investigation, Contingent Liabilities and Accrued  Departmental Revenue. Considering that assets have been grouped together, this makes it only three areas. 

To ensure compliance in these areas, the Department is conducting asset verification across all its entities while also looking at ways to address system challenges such as reviewing of applicable policies and standard operating procedures.

In the case of contingent liabilities, the Department has made significant progress  which has seen a decrease in the rand value of the medico-legal claims from R18 billion to R13.2 billion (a reduction of approximately R4,8 billion) owing to various  interventions such as mediation, administrative archiving and public healthcare  defense. It is important to clarify that contingent liability does not constitute actual  payments of finalised cases but the amount that signify potential legal exposure based on submitted claims which are still to be verified.

It should be noted that the overall audit outcome for performance reporting  highlights an improvement on Health Facilities Management and identified material findings which were subsequently corrected by management leading to  an unqualified audit opinion. The material findings were as a result of non-adherence to the processes on how data should be collated and reported in the annual performance report. 

Amongst other key interventions that have been implemented in the GDoH’s Supply Chain Management (SCM) includes the introduction of compliance and  oversight where all procurement between R500,000 and R1 million is vetted by the Gauteng Provincial Treasury before any purchase orders are created. This  oversight ensures that all procurement actions are transparent and meet  regulatory and legal requirements.

The GDoH’s SCM Policy has also undergone a thorough review, resulting in the  introduction of stricter procedures to align with Treasury regulations. There has 

also been the introduction of Quotation Adjudication Committees across all  health institutions to review procurement activities between R2 001 and R1 million to ensure no procedural missteps. This is vital in preventing irregular expenditures and ensuring compliance across all institutions.

To address contract management, several important contracts have been finalised, addressing longstanding challenges with extended contract  management, which previously led to irregular expenditures. Key contracts  include for services including physical security, waste removal, radiation oncology services, food supply, mental health services, and medical equipment.

 

Gauteng Health Department paid R3.9 million to absent Cuban Doctors

 Gauteng Health Department paid R3.9 million to absent Cuban Doctors @KASIBCNEWS

Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has disclosed in a written reply to my questions that R3.9 million was paid to 7 Cuban doctors who had left South Africa to go back to Cuba.

This expensive bungle happened as 28 Cuban doctors were hired on a one-year contract to assist with the Covid-19 pandemic, but the contracts for seven of them were irregularly extended for another year.

Instead of their contracts terminating on 14 May 2021, they continued to receive salaries without working until May 2022.

According to the MEC: "The officials who extended the contracts allege to have not been aware that the Cuban Healthcare Workers were no longer in the country."

This oversight has been flagged by the Auditor General as a "Material Irregularity".

An investigation has led to the recovery of R1.2 million, and disciplinary charges have been laid against the responsible officials.

The Cuban government has also been contacted to recover the outstanding money.

It boggles the mind that seven foreign doctors were paid for an entire year when they were not even in the country.

It is also outrageous that R2.7 million is still not recovered more than two years after this wasteful expenditure, and the officials concerned have not yet been disciplined.

It's yet another example of deep incompetence and possible corruption in this department.

As in the DA-run Western Cape Health Department, the DA in Gauteng believes there is no reason to hire Cuban doctors when so many local doctors are unemployed.

The priority should always be the best use of the available budget to provide quality healthcare.

REPATRIATION OF EXILED LIBERATION FIGHTERS

REPATRIATION OF EXILED LIBERATION FIGHTERS @KASIBCNEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) welcomes the long-awaited repatriation of our brave liberation fighters who laid down their lives in the struggle against apartheid. The beginning of the return of 49 comrades from Zimbabwe and Zambia, who died in exile, is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in pursuit of our freedom. We express our deep gratitude to the Zimbabwean and Zambian governments, whose support during our shared struggle for liberation will never be forgotten. 

Together with our comrades across borders, we fought against colonialism and apartheid, standing side by side in the battle for justice and dignity. Their solidarity was crucial then, and today’s repatriation reflects the enduring bonds between our peoples. Many of these freedom fighters were forced into exile to continue the struggle from beyond our borders when the apartheid regime intensified its oppression. Unable to fight openly within South Africa, these comrades found refuge in countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique. From there, they organised military campaigns, trained new cadres, and built pan-African solidarity for the anti-apartheid movement. Exile was not just a physical departure from home, but a continuation of the struggle in different terrains, and it contributed enormously to the eventual downfall of apartheid. 

The solidarity and support they garnered from the African community strengthened the fight for our freedom. Their sacrifices in exile, often living under harsh conditions far from their families, are a vital part of the story of how South Africans, both inside and outside the country, united to bring down a brutal regime.
However, this moment is also a painful reminder of the freedoms that the ANC-led government has recklessly squandered over the last three decades. While this repatriation brings long-overdue closure to many families, it is a stark symbol of the ANC’s neglect—only now, as we mark 30 years of democracy, are these heroes being honoured with the respect they deserve. The ANC has failed to prioritise the dignity of our fallen comrades, waiting until now to remember the sacrifices of those who once stood shoulder to shoulder with them. Furthermore, this repatriation calls attention to the many unresolved atrocities committed under apartheid, where justice has yet to be served. From the murders of activists such as Nokuthula Simelane, the Cradock Four, and the hundreds of disappearances and killings orchestrated by the apartheid regime, many of these cases remain unsolved. 

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), while initially seen as a vehicle for healing, has proven ineffective in delivering justice for these crimes. The TRC’s failure to hold key apartheid perpetrators accountable has left many families without the closure they deserve, and the ANC has done little to advance these cases since. True reconciliation cannot be achieved without justice, and the lack of meaningful follow-through on TRC recommendations reflects the government’s abandonment of the liberation ideals it once championed. Let it also be known that by forming an unholy alliance with the DA, the very descendants of apartheid architects, the ANC is spitting in the faces of these fallen freedom fighters. Joining hands with those who once upheld the system of oppression is a betrayal of the blood spilled for our liberation. As the EFF, we stand in solidarity with the families of these fighters and honour their legacy. We call for this process of repatriation to be expedited, so that every freedom fighter, regardless of their political affiliation, is finally brought home. We must not allow their memories to be tarnished by delay or neglect. 

We must also not forget that over 1,000 of our freedom fighters remain buried across the world, from Africa to Europe and the Americas. The EFF will continue to encourage that all of these fallen heroes be brought home, to their final resting place, where they can be honoured with the dignity and respect they deserve. Let this be a reminder to all South Africans of the ongoing fight for true economic freedom, which remains incomplete as long as the ideals for which these heroes fought continue to be undermined.

GAUTENG SPORT AWARDS (GSA) AS CLOSING DATE LOOMS

GAUTENG SPORT AWARDS (GSA) AS CLOSING DATE LOOMS 

 The 2023/24 year has witnessed outstanding sporting achievements by South African teams and athletes, many of whom are based in Gauteng. Events such as the recent Olympics, the Under 20 World Athletics Championships, the Rugby World Cup, the Netball World Cup, and football have brought joy and hope to many South Africans, showcasing success in both the field and administration of various sports. With only 09 days to go before the close of nominations for the 20204 Gauteng Sport Awards (GSA) nominees, the organisers of the Awards are calling for the public to finalise their submissions before closing day. Sports fans, federations, clubs and everybody are permitted to submit their nominations. Nominations should be based on achievements between August 1, 2023, and September 15, 2024, for Gauteng-based athletes, teams, clubs, and more. 

There are 20 unchanged awards categories from previous years including; Sportsperson of the Year, Personality of the Year, Sportswoman of the Year, Sports Team of the Year, Disabled Sports Team of the Year, Disabled Sportsman of the Year, Disabled Sportswoman of the Year, Coach of the Year, Most Promising Athlete of the Year, Technical Official of the Year, Sports Federation of the Year, Amayanga-Yanga Player of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Community-Based Sport and Recreation Programme of the Year, Sport Photographer of the Year, Community Sport Media of the Year, Sports Journalist of the Year (print, radio, and television), Fan of the Year, as well as Lifetime Achievement Award. 

The GSAs are organised by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation working through the Gauteng Sport Confederation. The prestigious awards ceremony will be held on 17 November 2024.
NB: Methods of sending nominations: 1. Online using the following link: https://sportapps.gauteng.gov.za/SportAwards/nominations/index. php Fill in the form electronically and email to the following email SportsAwards@gauteng.gov.za 2. Physically- Print out the form, fill it in and submit it at the following centres:  Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation - Head Office; 35 Rissik Street Johannesburg, Surrey House Building  North Corridor (Tshwane), 111 Swaan Street, East Lynne  South Corridor (Sedibeng) CCMA Building, Cnr Kruger and Edward Street, First Floor, Vereeniging,  West Corridor (West Rand) Corner Bram and Retief Street, Toekomsrus Stadium  East Corridor (Ekurhuleni), Faranani Multipurpose Centre, Tsakani  Gauteng Sports Council, Gauteng Sports House- Johannes Stadium 011- 402 1971/2/3 NB: The forms are to be accompanied by extra supporting documentation including but not limited to CV/Profiles; Testimonials; Photos etc

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS AMONGST TEACHERS

MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS AMONGST TEACHERS @KASIBCNEWS 

 The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes, with concern, the escalating mental health crisis among South Africa’s teachers. Our educators, the backbone of our nation’s future, are being overwhelmed by unbearable workloads, compounded by budget cuts that have left our classrooms understaffed. A recent study revealed that an overwhelming majority of teachers surveyed are in dire need of crisis intervention, including hotlines, counselling, and mentorship. 

The mental health toll on our teachers is a silent epidemic—one that is being ignored by a government that has cut funding for education at a time when our children need it most. In Gauteng alone, teachers are occupying more than half the beds in wellness centres due to stress-related issues, while teachers in KwaZulu-Natal are relying on anti-depressants just to cope with the demands of their profession. As more teachers leave the profession due to burnout and depression, the remaining teachers are burdened with even greater responsibilities, leading to a vicious cycle of stress and incapacity. This is a national emergency. The EFF has long called for social workers to be embedded in our schools, providing psychological support to both learners and teachers. Our educators should not be expected to bear the emotional burdens of their students in addition to their already overwhelming teaching and administrative responsibilities. 

 The ANC has diabolically failed the entire education sector, betraying both the African child and the teachers meant to serve them. Under their watch, our education system has deteriorated to such an extent that South African students are trailing behind the world in literacy, with many unable to read at age-appropriate levels. This is not just a failure of policy, but a direct consequence of a government more focused on looting than on development.

 
Mud schools, a disgraceful relic of apartheid, still exist in 2024. School transport is almost non-existent, and in many areas, it has had to be sacrificed just to retain teachers in understaffed classrooms. Feeding schemes, which should ensure no child goes hungry while trying to learn, are being systematically sabotaged through corrupt tender processes that lack any form of accountability.And now, the Ministry of Basic Education is now being led by a DA minister—a party whose interests lie not in improving education but in advancing their divisive, racist politics. 

Their indifference was made clear when Minister Gwarube could not even attend the signing of the crucial BELA bill aimed at addressing the urgent challenges in education. With such leadership, the prospect of reform in our education sector is dim. The DA in education brings nothing but a continuation of the negligence that has plagued our schools for decades, leaving little hope for meaningful change for our teachers and learners. They are focused on their pursuit of privatising education, a guaranteed cash cow for white capital, and not in a quality public education system that could uplift the African child. 

The EFF, therefore, stands with the educators who have voiced their struggles and those who feel helpless and voiceless in a system that values their output more than their well-being. We will continue to advocate for a reduction in the teacher-to-pupil ratio to 1:30 for primary schools and 1:25 for secondary schools through the construction of new schools and employment of all teachers currently unemployed. In addition, there needs to be #TeachersMatter campaign, focusing on the professiona and personal needs of teachers. 

This initiative will provide training in soft skills, emotional wellness, financial literacy, and debt management. Furthermore, we need to ensure that two social workers and one nurse are appointed per school to offer counselling, career guidance, and healthcare, addressing the overall wellbeing of teachers and creating a supportive environment for both educators and learners.