PUBLIC SAFETY’S DECISIVE ACTION AGAINST CRIME AND OFFICER ACCOUNTABILITY @KASIBCNEWS

 The MMC for Public Safety Dr, Mgcini Tshwaku is deeply outraged by the reckless criminal acts on the N1 North between the Soweto Highway and Maraisburg Off-ramps and the N1 South between Maraisburg and Rand Show Road Off-ramps. The deliberate placement of rocks on these routes has caused multiple accidents, jeopardizing the lives of innocent motorists. This is an attack on the safety and dignity of our residents. 

We have directed the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) act to decisively root out these criminal elements. Joint operations are underway across our freeways and highways, ensuring no road user is vulnerable. During this festive season, we prioritize the safety of every citizen and visitor traveling through Johannesburg.  

Equally troubling are reports alleging that JMPD officers failed to assist a motorist who was nearly mugged in the same area. Let it  be clear: The department of Public Safety  will not tolerate negligence or dereliction of duty by those entrusted to serve and protect.

The Internal Affairs Unit has launched a full investigation to ensure that any officer found guilty of misconduct is held accountable. 

We encourage the community to play a role in ensuring safety by reporting emergencies or suspicious activities by contacting 082 060 0057 or 011 375 5911 immediately. As a department, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents. 

We will continue to lead with decisive action, ensuring that Johannesburg remains a city where justice and accountability prevail.  

NATSJOINTS Illegal Miners in Stilfontein @KASIBCNEWS

NATSJOINTS Clarifying the Situation of Illegal Miners in Stilfontein

Recent developments have seen a number of illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas, 

voluntarily emerging from the disused mine shafts in Stilfontein. This trend indicates that these individuals have the capability to exit the underground tunnels independently. Their delayed emergence appears to be a tactic to evade arrest by law enforcement agencies.

|

Addressing Misinformation

Contrary to claims that food underground ran out months ago, evidence suggests that the miners have had access to supplies until recently. 

Assertions that aid sent down is shared equally among miners are unverified. Government has not sanctioned any official aid deliveries to individuals engaged in illegal activities. 

Reports indicate that any supplies reaching the miners are controlled by underground syndicates, often leading to unequal distribution and exploitation.

The notion that miners remain trapped solely due to police actions is misleading. SAPS has implemented measures to secure the area and prevent further illegal activities, but designated exit points have been established to allow miners to surface safely and face due legal processes. The miners possess the means to exit independently, as demonstrated by those who have surfaced in recent days. Government's stance is to uphold the rule of law; thus, while immediate aid is not provided to facilitate illegal activities, measures are in place to ensure the safety and humane treatment of individuals who choose to come above ground.

Government acknowledges the presence of various narratives surrounding this issue. It is important to rely on verified information from official channels. SAPS and other government bodies are committed to transparency and will continue to provide accurate updates on the situation.

Government's Commitment

The South African Government remains steadfast in its efforts to address illegal mining 

activities, which pose significant risks to both the individuals involved and the broader 

community. Operations such as "Vala Umgodi" ("Close the Pits") are ongoing to rehabilitate abandoned mines and prevent further unlawful exploitation. Government is also working to tackle the underlying socio-economic issues that contribute to illegal mining, including unemployment and lack of economic opportunities.

We cannot allow a situation where the Government is held hostage. All Court directives have been complied with thus far, including the allowed food supply on a daily basis. SAPS has previously indicated that it is working closely with all stakeholders involved in trying to get those illegal miners extracted from underground.

The Stilfontein rescue operation that is being undertaken is not as easy as it seems; it is quite complex, with the depth of the shaft playing a major role in how this operation is carried out. 

Unlike the Sabie operation, in which the shaft is 150 meters deep, the Stilfontein shaft is 2 kilometers deep to where these illegal miners allegedly are, making it a very difficult and highrisk operation to undertake. 

The rescue team has recommended that the necessary resources and expertise must be   acquired. The practicality and risks involved are also being taken into account. The liability involved is also a major factor. Police are not experts and can therefore not lead this rescue operation.

At this stage, the mine must acquire services to conduct the rescue operation, in which costs are involved. We are in possession of a quotation that indicates that there must also be a 100% upfront payment. It should be agreed upon that the Government must approach this process with due diligence and the utmost care, taking into consideration the applicable supply chain management processes involved. These processes must be above board in line with relevant prescripts.

We urge all individuals involved in these activities to surface voluntarily and engage with law enforcement to ensure their safety and well-being. Government is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law in all its operations. 

EFF ON THE ONGOING PROTEST AND VIOLENCE IN MOZAMBIQUE @KASIBCNEWS

 

EFF ON THE ONGOING PROTEST AND VIOLENCE IN MOZAMBIQUE @KASIBCNEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the concerning and destructive protest and violence in Mozambique following the October elections and the official proclamation by the Constitutional Council affirming the results. The election outcomes, widely criticised as fraudulent, have ignited widespread unrest, leading to the deaths of more than 20 people, including two police officers, with over 390 injured and 800 detained. 

This crisis is a direct result of a liberation movement, now led by corrupt and selfserving individuals, clinging to power by undermining democratic institutions and manipulating elections. 

The Mozambican government has failed to address the basic needs of its people, as evidenced by declining education, health, and economic growth. This mismanagement has fuelled public outrage, which the state is repressing with excessive force. 

The EFF calls for the Mozambican government and security forces to exercise maximum restraint and a high level of discipline in dealing with the protests. Launching tear gas from helicopters, restricting internet access to silence dissent, and using live ammunition against unarmed citizens is a gross violation of human rights. Such actions only serve to escalate tensions and push Mozambique toward a devastating civil war. 

We strongly condemn these repressive tactics and remind FRELIMO leaders of the consequences faced by other oppressive regimes around the world. History has shown that when repressive governments are overthrown, their leaders often face severe reprisals for atrocities committed against their own people. 

We further call on the people of Mozambique to refrain from vandalising critical infrastructure and assets. These resources will be essential for rebuilding the nation after their legitimate demands for democracy and justice are realised. We urge protestors to remain united, disciplined, and peaceful to ensure their struggle is effective and does not harm their future. 

The EFF reiterates its call for the South African government to convene the ambassador of Mozambique to record its strongest condemnation of the killings, arrests, and repression of protestors. While the EFF acknowledges the South African government’s statement noting the ongoing violence and urging dialogue, we emphasise that more decisive action is required. It is not enough to merely call for calm and restraint. 

We insist that the South African government, in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), take urgent and concrete steps to facilitate a sustainable resolution to the crisis. The ongoing failure to take decisive and direct action has emboldened repressive elements within the Mozambican state, leaving citizens vulnerable to violent crackdowns. South Africa’s readiness to assist Mozambique must translate into tangible efforts to hold the Mozambican government accountable while working toward an inclusive, long-term solution that priorities the democratic will of the people. Mozambique stands at the precipice of a civil war that could be more devastating than the apartheid-sponsored destabilisation of the 1980s, which claimed the lives of many, including President Samora Machel. 

The EFF warns that such a conflict would have dire consequences for the region, threatening the stability of SADC and undermining decades of progress. There is a sweeping change in the SADC region politically, which has seen and will continue to see the rapid decline and ultimate extinction of former liberation movements. The solidarity amongst these former liberation movements at a time when there is clear manipulation of electoral process, is testament to an alliance of regressive forces and must be recognized as an axis of evil which will be detrimental to the political future of the region. The former liberation movements have reached a point of desperation, and have become either collaborators or oppressors as they refuse to accept that they have lost the popular support of the people. 

The EFF emphasises that any intervention must prioritise sustainable and lasting solutions, rooted in democratic processes and the will of the Mozambican people. Imposing external solutions risks alienating the population and exacerbating the crisis . The EFF calls on all stakeholders to act decisively and collectively. SADC and the AU must demonstrate that they are capable of preventing a descent into chaos and ensuring that the democratic aspirations of the Mozambican people are upheld. 

We stand in solidarity with the people of Mozambique and reiterate our support for their legitimate demands for justice, democracy, and good governance. It is important that regional leaders work toward restoring peace and stability in Mozambique and preventing further regression and backwardness. Mozambique and the SADC region cannot afford the consequences of inaction. 

ANCWL ON TEENAGE PREGNANCY @KASIBCNEWS 

The African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) expresses profound concern over the rising rate of teenage pregnancy in our communities. This alarming trend not only jeopardizes the health and future prospects of our young girls but also underscores the critical issues surrounding broken homes, inadequate parenting structures, and the overall social fabric of our society. 

Teenage pregnancy is a multifaceted issue rooted in a variety of societal challenges, including poverty, lack of access to education, and limited awareness regarding sexual and reproductive health. Young women who become pregnant during their teenage years often face significant challenges that can affect their emotional, physical, and mental well-being. 

The demands of motherhood at such a young age can lead to a cascade of difficulties, including the interruption of their education and limited employment opportunities. This, in turn, perpetuates a cycle of poverty that can impact future generations. Many of these young mothers are raising children in broken homes or unstable environments, leading to potential neglect and emotional instability for both the parents and the children involved. The effects of familial disintegration can be profound, contributing to feelings of isolation and despair among young pregnant women. This situation can further exacerbate the challenges of parenting, as they often lack the necessary support systems that promote healthy child development. 

When discussing teenage pregnancy, it is imperative to reflect on the role of parents and guardians in guiding their children through the tumultuous teenage years. Parents are often the first line of support for young people, and their involvement is crucial in fostering an open dialogue about sexual health and relationships. By providing a nurturing and communicative environment, parents can equip their children with the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. Unfortunately, for some teenagers, parental support may be lacking due to various issues, including socio-economic pressures, mental health challenges, or generational patterns of neglect. As such, it is vital that we encourage parents to take an active role in their children’s lives, engage with them in discussions about sexual health, and model positive relationships. 

By normalizing conversations about sexuality and healthy relationships, we can empower our youth to recognize their worth and make choices that prioritize their health and well-being. Moreover, we must acknowledge that teenage girls face significant limitations regarding their rights and opportunities. 

They often lack access to essential resources, including education, healthcare, and social support, which are crucial for their development and well-being. These limitations impede their ability to make informed choices, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and unplanned pregnancies. To effectively combat this issue, the ANCWL calls for a united effort from all sister departments, including the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health, and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. Each department has a vital role to play in building a comprehensive support network for our youth, including:

1. Department of Basic Education: The newly enacted BELA Act is effectively mitigating on the future prospects of young girls who fell pregnant during their school years and ensures this predicament does not determine their social and economic development, This department must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive sexual education programs in schools. Such programs should not only educate young people about the biological aspects of reproduction but also address the emotional and social implications of sexual activity. It is vital that we provide our youth with the information they need to make informed decisions, as well as promote healthy relationships. 

2. Department of Social Development: The department should extend its support services for pregnant teenagers and young mothers. This includes providing access to counseling services, parenting classes, and economic empowerment initiatives. Importantly, social workers should be trained to understand the unique challenges facing teenage mothers and equipped to provide targeted interventions that support family stability and child development. 

3. Department of Health: The health department must ensure that all teenagers have access to comprehensive reproductive health services. This includes providing confidential advice, contraceptive options, and prenatal care. Public health campaigns should also focus on educating young people about their reproductive choices, emphasizing the importance of consent and personal agency. 

4. Department of Justice and Constitutional Development: It is crucial for this department to strengthen legal measures against statutory rape and ensure that law enforcement agencies are equipped to act decisively in cases where young girls are exploited and abused. This includes providing training for law enforcement on the sensitive nature of these cases and ensuring there are proper mechanisms in place for reporting and supporting victims. Protecting our youth from exploitation must be a top priority, and offenders must be held accountable for their actions. 

The ANCWL calls on all sectors of society, including inter-governmental departments, the progressive student movement, teachers’ association and the private sector, to take urgent and collective action to address the epidemic of teenage pregnancy. We need to work together to cultivate an environment where young women are empowered to make choices that enhance their dignity, health, and future prospects. 

By reinforcing our support systems, enhancing education and awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can break the cycle of disadvantage and build a brighter, healthier future for all our youth. Together, we can transform our society and ensure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

DA rejects attempts to fire Minister of Education Gwarube @KASIBCNEWS

DA rejects attempts to fire Minister of Education Gwarube @KASIBCNEWS 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) rejects any attempt by a faction of the ANC to influence the president to fire Minister Siviwe Gwarube, or any other DA minister, for doing their jobs. Doing so would signal an end to the Government of National Unity (GNU).

This amid misinformation around the consultation process which has been taking place since the president signed the BELA Act into law nearly 3 months ago, withholding clauses 4 and 5, to allow for further consultation from concerned parties. These consultations are ongoing through the clearing house mechanism within the GNU.

During this time, the minister has met with members from Solidarity, and the Presidency, at NEDLAC after a dispute was lodged by the Union. This process is entirely separate from the consultation process, and conflating the two is misleading, and factually incorrect. This was a mandatory process, in terms of the law, to prevent strike action arising out of the dispute. The outcome of this engagement was a settlement, signed by the Minister of Basic Education , the Presidency, and the Union.

The fact that the Presidency has now distanced itself from this legislated process, which they were party to, is as disgraceful, as it is confusing.

As leader of the DA I would like to make this point loud and clear. We support the process followed by the minister, as she was fulfilling her legally obligated responsibilities, and respect the outcome of the negotiations at NEDLAC.

We have been clear since the outset. We are in Government to bring about positive change, including inclusive economic growth, and jobs, and at all times we are guided by the rule of law, and the Constitution of South Africa. Anything to the contrary will not be tolerated.

Gauteng Prioritises Service Delivery @KASIBCNEWS

The Gauteng Local Government Turnaround Committee, also referred to as the Turnaround Committee, held its inaugural meeting today, 6 December 2024, in Johannesburg. The committee was established following the successful Gauteng Local Government Turnaround Summit held on 23–24 October 2024 in Mogale City, West Rand District. Its core mandate is to lead and oversee the implementation of decisions made during the summit. Building on the resolutions of the summit and directives from Premier Panyaza Lesufi, the Turnaround Committee has pledged to prioritise improvements in critical bulk infrastructure, including water, energy, waste management, roads, and disaster management. Additionally, the committee will intensify efforts to combat crime and improve community safety as it begins its work. 

The committee is composed of Members of Mayoral Committees (MMCs) delegated by Mayors, as well as Municipal Managers, who have been tasked with leading and championing the turnaround initiatives. “We are extremely pleased as the Gauteng Provincial Government with the commitment our municipalities have shown towards a unified provincial strategy to transform municipal governance and service delivery. The Monitoring Committee has identified seven key focus areas that will guide their interventions going forward,” said MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo. 

The committee reaffirmed the importance of public participation and announced plans to consult communities across all municipalities to ensure inclusive decision-making. Broader engagements with key stakeholders, including organised labour, businesses, academia, and civil society, will also form a critical part of the process. These efforts align with the Turnaround Summit’s emphasis on cooperative governance, intergovernmental collaboration, and fostering strategic partnerships to address municipal challenges and improve service delivery across the Gauteng City Region. 

The Turnaround Committee also resolved to convene an Imbizo to provide Ward Councillors with updates on key issues such as water security, by-law enforcement, energy, and community safety. 

ANC SECRETARY GENERAL FIKILE MBALULA @KASIBCNEWS

ANC SECRETARY GENERAL FIKILE MBALULA @KASIBCNEWS

We have convened this Press Conference to take the nation into confidence against developments taking place in the country  and as a way of closing the vacuum against a false narrative that the country is rudderless. 

These falsehoods instil uncertainty and worry in society. 

The leadership role of the African National Congress is uncontested. We therefore reaffirm our ability to address problems confronting the country and we call upon society to defend democracy and collectively explore solutions. The African National Congress (ANC), as the leader of society and the custodian of the aspirations of the people, takes this opportunity to address critical issues facing our nation. 

We assure our people that the ANC will not stand idle while lawlessness, criminality, and opportunism undermine the sovereignty of our country and the well-being of our citizens. 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT BY ELECTIONS 

The African National Congress expresses heartfelt gratitude to South Africans for the electoral support in the December 4th by-elections across the country. This reaffirms the people's trust in the ANC as the custodian of their aspirations. From expanded access to essential services like water, electricity, and healthcare to equity in opportunities and South Africa’s respected standing in the global community, our 30-year transformation journey proves that South Africa today is a better place than we found it. 

This electoral outcome is a solemn mandate for the ANC to deliver, act, and lead decisively. We direct all ANC-led municipalities to act with urgency and discipline, ensuring the swift implementation of service delivery projects. Leaders must serve with humility, remain accessible, responsive, and transparent, particularly prioritizing the needs of women, youth, and people with disabilities, as they represent not just their offices but the millions who entrust the ANC with hope for progress. 

The ANC will not tolerate underperformance, inefficiency, or corruption within its structures. Leaders who fail to meet their mandate must rise to the challenge or step aside. We expect all our deployees to be guided by revolutionary morality in discharging their public duty. When services are delayed or promises broken, it is the ANC as a whole that is held accountable. 

We call on all leaders to honour the trust placed in them and work tirelessly to restore dignity and hope to our communities. South Africa cannot afford complacency, and the ANC will not allow self-interest to undermine progress. 

The time to act is now! 

INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND SHARED PROSPERITY THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS, COLLABORATIONS AND AFRICAN UNION AGENDA 2063 

We reaffirm the ANC’s commitment to South Africa’s partnerships with nations across the globe, particularly the African nations with whom we share common developmental objectives, based on mutual growth and shared prosperity. In furtherance of this developmental vision, Nigeria is one of the countries with whom we share mutual interests and reciprocal growth. 

The relationship with Nigeria has strengthened trade, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation between the two countries. The call to have more Nigerian products on the shelves of South Africa is informed by the fact that we have less than 10 Nigerian companies operating in South Africa, while we have hundreds of South African companies operating in Nigeria. Our trade exchange value amounts to around US$ 3 billion in 2023, a significant partnership representing over 65% of trade, the highest in West Africa. However, to all immigrants residing in South Africa, whether from Africa or elsewhere in the world, we are clear: you are welcome here only if you respect the laws of our country and contribute positively to our society. 

There are those who exploit South Africa’s generosity and believe they can operate outside the law without consequences. We make it abundantly clear: South Africa is not a playground for lawlessness. As the President said, the relation of VISA laws as they relate to Nigerians does not equal entry into the country without a passport including necessary administration requirements. Anyone who undermines our legal system or compromises the safety and economic opportunities of South Africans will face the full might of the law. This includes immigrants who engage in criminal activities and South Africans who enable this criminality by illegally registering businesses or aiding criminal behaviour, zama-zamas, drug peddlers and drug laboratories and illegal immigrants. 

Our patience has been overstretched. South Africa’s hospitality must never be mistaken for weakness. Our communities cannot live in fear. The law must be enforced. The time is now!! As an organisation we continue to make strides in reclaiming the spaza shop sector as part of revitalizing township and rural economies. Many spaza shop owners are registering in-line with the President’s call, ensuring that South Africans benefit from this important sector of our economy, women, youth and people with disabilities.

The R500 million allocated to this initiative will impact thousands of lives, creating opportunities, economic growth and jobs. The time has come to enforce compliance more rigorously. We must not falter in ensuring that the laws of the country are fully implemented. This includes ensuring that no illegal immigrants are allowed to operate tuck shops. Those who are legally in the country, they must proof investment in the business of over R 5 million as required by the law. 

We are pleased that as of last night, 51 788 spaza shops have been registered with 45 percent being KwaZulu-Natal. 800 Spaza shops have been closed to date. With 93% of these being foreign owned. We call on the government to employ additional inspectors to monitor the sector and ensure that it serves its intended purpose: empowering South Africans and restoring economic dignity to our communities.  

The spaza shops that are not compliant as  per the President’s grace period should cease operating or face the law. We cannot watch when our children die, and the local economy suffer as a result of lawlessness.

COMRADE THEMBI SIMELANE’S MATTER 

On the matter of Comrade Thembi Simelane, the ANC is guided by its principles of integrity and ethical leadership. While the Integrity Committee addresses this matter internally, state investigations are continuing independently. The ANC does not prejudge the outcomes of these processes, but we remain resolute in our principle of stepping aside when charged, as a demonstration of accountability. The ANC respects the constitutional prerogative of the President when it comes to Cabinet appointments. We however note the heavy strain and impact of this matter on the organisational brand and image and the voices of civil society for her to step aside pending a full inquiry and other legal processes and independent bodies. We believe and trust in the ability of the independent bodies to discharge their mandate and responsibilities. 

 THE RELEASE OF JANUSZ WALUŚ 

Today, the murderer of our leader, Janusz Waluś will be released from prison, taking with him to his homeland the truth of the assassination of our leader, Comrade Martin Thembisile Chris Hani. We are reminded of the immense loss inflicted on our movement and our nation. Janusz Waluś deprived South Africa of one of its greatest leaders, and his release without a full confession of his actions and conspiracies remains an injustice. The heavy blow that he inflicted on the nation is palpably fresh, considering its painful effect on Comrade Chris’ children and his wife Cde Limpho. The assassination of Comrade Chris Hani was a well-orchestrated scheme designed to plunge the country into chaos, an attempt to subvert the course for a negotiated political settlement, thus deferring a dream for a democratic South Africa after many years of apartheid subjugation. This move was well calculated.  

Ironically, the brutal killing of Comrade Chris Hani, his selfless dedication to the struggle as a disciplined commissar of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the People’s Army, brought us the freedom and rights we enjoy today. This is a sad and painful moment for the Hani family, the ANC, the working class and the poor and the South African Communist Party for which he was the General Secretary. We to the conscience Janusz Waluś to tell the whole truth about the forces that orchestrated this heinous act. We call for a comprehensive inquiry into the assassination of Comrade Chris Hani to expose the full scope of this crime and bring closure to his family, the ANC, and the people of South Africa. South Africa is no home for assassins and murderers. Walus must leave the country now. 

SO-CALLED NATIONAL SHUTDOWN 

We dismiss the so-called national shutdown as nothing more than a failed attempt to sow chaos. These opportunists have no plan for building South Africa but only destruction. To our people, we say reject these distractions and remain focused on rebuilding our communities and creating opportunities for all. The ANC remains resolute in defending South Africa’s sovereignty, uplifting its people, and ensuring that our country is a home for all who respect its laws and contribute positively to its growth. We are here to lead, and we will not falter in this responsibility. 

We will not betray our values and principles nor abandon our goal of a non-racial, non-sexist democratic South Africa and a cause of “A better life for All.” Our democratically elected President, Comrade Cyril Ramaphosa remains our president and will be defended. The People Shall Govern!