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Evidence presented at the Maglanga Commission today links Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema to allegations of tender manipulation within the Tshwane Municipality.

Allegations Detail 2024 Security Tender

The allegations concern a 2024 tender issued by the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) for private security firms to protect the city’s critical infrastructure. Gauteng Police Sergeant Fannie Nkosi testified before the commission regarding his relationships with metro officials and political figures.

Nkosi revealed that Dlamini’s message included a list of seven companies recommended by individuals representing the EFF and its leader. According to the testimony, these companies were also reportedly presented to the CFO, Gareth Mnisi.

“Juju” Identified

While Nkosi stated he did not know who “Juju” referred to, the commission recognized “Juju” as a widely known nickname for Malema, who is also referred to as the Commander-in-Chief (CIC) by his party.

It remains unclear at this stage of the inquiry whether the seven companies mentioned in the communication were ultimately awarded the security tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maglanga Commission investigating?

The Maglanga Commission is investigating allegations of tender manipulation within the Tshwane Municipality, specifically concerning a 2024 security tender issued by the TMPD.

Who provided testimony to the commission?

Gauteng Police Sergeant Fannie Nkosi testified before the commission regarding his relationships with senior metro officials and political figures.

What was the role of Umashi Dlamini in the allegations?

TMPD Deputy Chief Umashi Dlamini allegedly sent a WhatsApp message containing a list of seven companies recommended by individuals representing the EFF and its leader.

As the Maglanga Commission continues its inquiry, what impact might these allegations have on the political landscape of Tshwane?

A building collapse in Ormonde, south of Johannesburg, has left at least 15 construction workers believed to be trapped. The second-floor deck of the structure gave way earlier on Monday, impacting those working on the first floor and ground level.

Search and Rescue Underway

Emergency services officials are currently engaged in search and rescue operations, though the full extent of casualties remains unclear. Parts of the building, understood to be a factory under construction, have been reduced to rubble. The scene is described as being filled with the smell of wet cement and dust as crews search for survivors.

One construction worker, speaking anonymously to Eyewitness News, reported being outside the building when the collapse occurred. He described hearing a loud bang and seeing dust, and stated that a colleague who escaped reported other workers had died.

Families Arrive, Public Asked to Stay Away

Families of the construction workers have been notified and are en route to the site. Authorities have requested that the public avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to work without obstruction.

The cause of the collapse is currently unknown.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many workers are believed to be trapped?

At least 15 construction workers are believed to be trapped under the collapsed structure.

What type of building was under construction?

The building is believed to be a factory.

What is the status of the search and rescue operation?

Emergency services officials are continuing search and rescue operations, but the number of potential fatalities remains unclear.

As rescue efforts continue, it remains to be seen what factors contributed to this collapse and what the long-term impact will be on the families and community involved.

The Gauteng government is set to take full ownership of the Gautrain high-speed rail system at the end of March, according to Finance MEC Lebogang Maile. The 80-kilometre rail system will officially become a fully paid asset of the provincial government after sixteen years of operation.

A Landmark Public-Private Partnership

The Gautrain was originally developed as a public-private partnership, involving joint management between the government and a private partner. MEC Maile confirmed that the Gauteng government has now fully settled its debt related to the project, resulting in complete provincial ownership.

Maile highlighted the success of this public-private partnership, stating, “When we built Gautrain, we spent R26 Billion. Today, it’s worth anything between R45 billion and R53 billion. So that’s the power of public-private partnerships.”

What’s Next for the Gautrain?

While full ownership is being transferred, plans for expansion are still underway. The Gauteng government is expected to announce the preferred bidder for a new concession by the end of March. The process to select a new operator is reportedly at an advanced stage.

The handover could lead to changes in operational strategies and potentially influence future investment in the rail network. A new concessionaire may bring fresh perspectives and approaches to managing and maintaining the Gautrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Gautrain officially be handed over?

The Gautrain will officially be handed over to the Gauteng government at the end of March.

Was the Gautrain built entirely with public funds?

No, the Gautrain was developed through a public-private partnership, with both government and a private partner jointly managing its operations.

Are there plans to expand the Gautrain?

Yes, plans to expand the Gautrain are still on the table, and the preferred bidder for a new concession is expected to be announced by the end of March.

As the Gautrain transitions to full provincial ownership, what impact do you foresee on commuters and the broader Gauteng economy?

The Department of Home Affairs has begun recognizing Khoisan traditional names on official documents, a move hailed as a significant step toward inclusivity. Minister Leon Schreiber recently handed over the first smart identity document reflecting a Khoisan traditional name to !Khūboab Oedasoua Lawrence, a first-year student at Stellenbosch University.

A Long-Standing Issue Resolved

The need for this upgrade stemmed from a technical limitation within the department’s IT systems. For over 18 years, !Khūboab’s family had been unable to obtain official documents—first a birth certificate, and now an ID—that accurately spelled his first name due to the system’s inability to process “special characters.” Minister Schreiber became aware of the issue a month ago and prioritized a solution.

Within four weeks, the necessary upgrades were implemented, enabling the use of traditional Khoisan names on birth certificates, smart IDs, and passports for the first time in South African history. The department’s technical team remains on standby to address any further adjustments needed for additional “special characters.”

A Moment of Recognition

Minister Schreiber described the handover as “a historic victory for the inclusion, equality and dignity of Khoisan communities.” He emphasized that a name is central to a person’s identity and that this reform demonstrates the benefits of digital transformation.

A circular will be issued to all Home Affairs offices informing them of the upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the Department of Home Affairs to make these changes?

The changes were prompted by the case of !Khūboab Oedasoua Lawrence, who was unable to obtain a smart ID due to the system’s inability to process the characters in his traditional Khoisan name. His family faced a similar issue 18 years prior when applying for a birth certificate.

What types of documents will now recognize Khoisan traditional names?

Birth certificates, smart IDs, and passports will now be able to recognize and record Khoisan traditional names.

What is the Department of Home Affairs doing to prepare for future needs?

The department’s technical team is on standby to effect further upgrades if additional “special characters” need to be adjusted.

As the Department of Home Affairs expands its ability to accommodate diverse names, what other steps might be taken to further promote inclusivity and recognize the cultural heritage of all South African communities?

More than 100 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested Friday during inspections of construction sites in Ekurhuleni, as the Department of Employment and Labour cracks down on non-compliant employers.

Inspections Reveal Widespread Non-Compliance

Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya led the inspections, which revealed multiple violations of labour laws and basic conditions of employment acts at two construction sites. The Department of Employment and Labour announced it will fine employers R10,000 for every undocumented foreign national they hire.

During a visit to a construction site in Tembisa, Sibiya questioned workers about their employment conditions, asking if they received leave, pay slips, contracts and overtime compensation. He stated the high unemployment rate in the country is, in part, due to the hiring and exploitation of undocumented foreign nationals.

Future Enforcement

The Department plans to deploy thousands of additional inspectors across various sectors to ensure compliance with labour laws. Sibiya indicated the department will build cases against employers who repeatedly violate the law, potentially leading to prosecution.

Sibiya promised tough action against employers found to be breaking the law, stating, “Each and every illegal foreign immigrant that we find, I believe in Gauteng its R10, 000 per illegal foreign national.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted these inspections?

The inspections were led by Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya to clamp down on employers who are not complying with labour laws and basic conditions of employment acts.

How many people were arrested?

More than 100 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested during the operation.

What will happen to employers found to be in violation?

Employers will be fined R10,000 for every undocumented foreign national they have hired, and repeat offenders may face prosecution.

As the Department of Employment and Labour increases inspections and enforcement, what impact do you foresee on the construction industry and other sectors reliant on foreign labor?

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s comments regarding water shortages in Johannesburg have sparked outrage and threats of electoral consequences for the African National Congress (ANC). The controversy stems from remarks Lesufi made during a press briefing on Wednesday addressing ongoing water challenges.

Premier’s Comments Draw Criticism

Lesufi attempted to convey empathy by stating he personally experiences water shortages, even going so far as to say he had, on occasion, visited a hotel to bathe. He stated, “I also experience water shortages, and in certain instances, I had to go to a certain hotel so that I could bathe and go to my commitments.”

Following the backlash, Lesufi issued an apology via his X account, expressing regret for the impression his comments created and affirming he is not unaffected by water shortages.

Residents Express Disappointment

Despite the apology, residents voiced strong disapproval, accusing Lesufi of being out of touch. One resident stated, “Panyaza speaks from a place of privilege. We are here today given that of the ANC. Thank you so much, Panyaza. We’ll spot you at the ballot box.”

Others echoed this sentiment, expressing disappointment and vowing to express their dissatisfaction in the upcoming local government elections. One resident said, “I thought he was the intelligent one…but Panyaza you are just like all of them.” Another stated, “I experience Panyaza’s apology/explanation is almost as bad as the original statement itself.”

The incident occurs as the ANC faces upcoming local government elections, and some 702 listeners have threatened to punish the party at the polls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the criticism of Panyaza Lesufi?

Panyaza Lesufi faced criticism after stating he sometimes went to a hotel to bathe due to water shortages, a comment residents perceived as insensitive and indicative of privilege.

How did Lesufi respond to the criticism?

Lesufi issued a one-page apology on his X account, stating he regretted the impression his comments gave and that he is not immune to the frustration of water shortages.

What is the potential impact of this incident?

Some disgruntled 702 listeners have threatened to punish the African National Congress (ANC) at the polls in the upcoming local government elections as a result of Lesufi’s comments.

Will this incident significantly impact voter sentiment in the upcoming local government elections?

The Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSCHO) CEO, Themba Mathibe, is alleged to have authorized a payment of R1 million to a subcontractor for a wall that was never constructed.

Investigation and Allegations

The allegations surfaced in a letter penned by the city’s former Human Settlements MMC, Anthea Leitch, in December 2023. Leitch’s letter details that Mathibe signed off on the payment despite being informed not to proceed with the work. The subcontractor allegedly submitted fraudulent photos purporting to show the completed wall at Moffat View Old Age Home.

An internal investigation was launched, and later expanded to include the Johannesburg Group Forensic Investigation Services (GFIS). Leitch’s letter further alleges that Mathibe attempted to recover the funds from the service provider without seeking legal counsel, potentially interfering with the GFIS investigation.

From COO to CEO, Despite Concerns

Eyewitness News reported that JOSCHO disregarded its own recommendation to suspend Mathibe, then serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO), during the initial investigation. Instead of suspension, Mathibe was promoted to acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He too currently serves as the CEO of the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), reportedly earning R3.3 million annually.

JOSCHO maintains that there was no sufficient evidence to justify Mathibe’s suspension, stating that the investigation was already advanced when Mathibe attempted to recover the funds. The entity also confirmed that the R1 million was fully recovered and accounted for in its financial records more than two years ago.

Recent Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Mathibe was recently arrested by the Special Task Force, the South African Police Service (SAPS)’s elite unit, on suspicion of money laundering. Police found a substantial amount of cash at his home near Sandton during the arrest. He appeared before the Alexandra Magistrates Court in January and was released on R50,000 bail. On the day of his arrest, JOSCHO offices were raided, and several senior officials were questioned as part of an investigation into procurement irregularities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the alleged fraudulent activity?

A subcontractor allegedly submitted fraudulent photos to JOSCHO, claiming a wall had been built at Moffat View Old Age Home when, according to a letter from Anthea Leitch, Mathibe had instructed the contractor not to proceed with the work.

Was Mathibe suspended following the allegations?

No, despite a recommendation for precautionary suspension from the then CEO, Bongani Radebe, Mathibe was not suspended. He was instead promoted to acting CEO.

What is the current status of Mathibe’s legal case?

Mathibe appeared before the Alexandra Magistrates Court in January and is currently out on R50,000 bail following his arrest on suspicion of money laundering.

As investigations continue, will the findings impact the leadership structure and financial oversight within JOSCHO and the Johannesburg Development Agency?

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has announced he will not seek re-election as federal leader of the party. The announcement came during a media briefing in Durban on Wednesday, as the DA prepares for its national elective congress in April.

Steenhuisen Cites New Priorities

Steenhuisen stated his decision is driven by his commitment to address the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in his role as Agriculture Minister. He described the outbreak as “the most devastating foot and mouth outbreak our country has ever seen,” and said he will dedicate his full attention to combating it for the remainder of his term.

He indicated that achieving this goal – moving the DA into government – was his primary objective, and that he now believes it is time for a new leader to guide the party forward. Steenhuisen also acknowledged the upcoming local government elections and stated he could not effectively balance party leadership with the demands of addressing the animal disease crisis.

Looking Ahead

Steenhuisen expressed confidence in the DA’s future, stating, “This is not the end of the road for the DA, and it’s certainly not the end of the road for me.” He envisions the next leader building upon the party’s success within the Government of National Unity (GNU) to become the largest political force in South Africa, capable of leading future coalition governments at all levels.

Sources suggest Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis may be poised to take over the leadership role. However, Hill-Lewis has previously stated he would not challenge Steenhuisen, his close friend, for the position.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted John Steenhuisen to withdraw from the leadership contest?

Steenhuisen stated his withdrawal is due to his commitment to focus on addressing the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in his capacity as Agriculture Minister.

What did Steenhuisen say about his time as leader of the DA?

Steenhuisen described his seven-year tenure as “mission accomplished,” highlighting the party’s move from opposition into government.

Who is being considered as a potential successor to Steenhuisen?

Insiders believe Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis may be a frontrunner, though he has previously indicated he would not challenge Steenhuisen for the leadership.

As the DA prepares for its congress in April, what impact will this leadership transition have on the party’s strategy and future direction?

The Gauteng government has pledged support for the family of Andile Mngwevu, the late Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport. This commitment follows the recovery of Mngwevu’s body in Mozambique on Tuesday night, bringing to a close a search that lasted over a week.

Search Concludes After Tragic Flooding

Mngwevu, 40, disappeared after the vehicle he was traveling in with companions was swept away by floodwaters in the Chokwé region of Mozambique. His family confirmed the discovery of his body in a statement, expressing profound grief. An outpouring of sympathy and support has followed the news.

Government Response and Ongoing Efforts

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga, stated the government shares in the sadness and will provide support to the family during this difficult time. Mhlanga conveyed condolences to the families of both Mngwevu and his companions, though their identities remain unconfirmed.

Officials confirmed last Monday that one individual survived the incident and was actively assisting with search and rescue operations. The family has indicated that details regarding the repatriation of Mngwevu’s body and funeral arrangements will be announced as they finalize plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What position did Andile Mngwevu hold?

Andile Mngwevu was the Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport.

Where did the incident occur?

The incident occurred in the Chokwé region of Mozambique, where the vehicle Mngwevu was traveling in was swept away by floods.

What is the government doing to help?

The Gauteng government has committed to supporting the family of Andile Mngwevu during this difficult time and has expressed its condolences.

As the family grieves and prepares for the future, how do communities balance offering support with respecting the privacy of those affected by loss?