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.