Category: Africa

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SIU to probe uMzinyathi District Municipality procurement and contracting

Source: Government of South Africa

SIU to probe uMzinyathi District Municipality procurement and contracting

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is set to launch a probe into the affairs of the uMzinyathi District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal to investigate allegations of serious maladministration and improper or unlawful conduct.

“The probe covers allegations of serious maladministration; misconduct by officials or employees; illegal appropriation or spending of public funds or assets; irregular acts involving state property; intentional or negligent loss of public funds or damage to public property; relevant offences under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act (Act No. 12 of 2004); and any unlawful or improper conduct resulting in harm to the public interests,” the SIU said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the corruption busting unit to investigate the municipality.

“Proclamation 305 of 2026 empowers the SIU to probe matters relating to procurement and contracting by the municipality, including the supply, installation and maintenance of ground dual static tanks and fuel, as well as the lease and subsequent purchase of a generator for the Vants Drift Water Treatment Plant in Nquthu.

“The investigation will determine whether these contracts and related payments were conducted in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable or cost-effective.

“The SIU will also probe any potential violations of applicable legislation, National Treasury guidelines, and the municipality’s own policies and procedures,” the unit added.

The Proclamation covers the time between 1 November 2020 and 23 January 2026 and empowers the unit to “investigate any conduct before or after this period that is relevant or connected to the matters under investigation, including contracts where services were paid for but not delivered”.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.

“The SIU is also authorised to initiate civil proceedings in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation and to recover financial losses suffered by the State, including funds paid for services not rendered,” the SIU stated. – SAnews.gov.za

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Committee Has Serious Concerns About Prolonged Leadership and Governance Instability at Universal Service and Access Agency

Source: APO


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The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has expressed serious concern about the prolonged instability in leadership and governance at the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA). The committee believes that this persistent instability continues to undermine institutional performance, accountability and the effective delivery of its mandate to advance universal connectivity.

USAASA’s important mandate to drive universal access to information and communication technologies – particularly for poor, rural and marginalised communities – requires clear strategic direction, stable leadership and decisive governance to ensure alignment with national priorities, including universal broadband access and digital inclusion. Without institutional stability and a coherent long-term strategy, the organisation risks failing to fulfill its responsibility to bridge the digital divide and to ensure that public investments translate into tangible socio-economic benefits.

The committee, led by its Chairperson, Ms Khusela Sangoni-Diko, undertook an oversight visit to USAASA to engage on governance and institutional stability, financial management and audit outcomes, Universal Services and Access Fund (USAF) operations and programme delivery, operational realities, as well as ongoing challenges related to poor project planning and implementation. Of particular concern are slippery project timelines, which often result in unspent allocations intended to connect underserved communities.

During the visit, the committee noted with alarm that USAASA has operated with different interim boards since 2018. This prolonged reliance on temporary governance structures, compounded by the excessive use of acting appointments at executive level, including the chief executive officer (CEO), has created uncertainty and weakened strategic direction. While the committee noted that the Board will, at its next meeting, consider a project implementation plan for the appointment of a permanent CEO, it emphasised that decisive action is long overdue. The committee welcomes the Board’s undertaking to make the recruitment plan public, as transparency is critical to restoring confidence in the institution.

The committee also engaged with staff and gained insight into the operational challenges they face. Workers raised serious concerns about the lack of basic tools of trade, indicating that items such as laptops and cellphones were last issued approximately 10 years ago. Despite these challenges, the committee commends staff for their dedication and commitment to delivering on the institution’s mandate under extremely difficult conditions.

Staff members made a strong appeal for the urgent appointment of a permanent Board to stabilise governance and improve institutional effectiveness. The committee agrees that stable, permanent leadership is essential to addressing the systemic challenges facing USAASA and USAF and to ensuring meaningful progress towards universal access and connectivity.

The committee will continue to exercise rigorous oversight and expects clear, time-bound interventions to address the concerns raised. The committee remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly and that institutions under its oversight are stable, capable and fit for purpose.

ISSUED BY PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES, MS KHUSELA DIKO

For media enquiries or to request an interview with the Chairperson, please contact Media Officer:
Justice Molafo (Mr)
Cell: 081 424 7481
Email: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Committees to Be Briefed on Animal Welfare and Protection of Captive Animals

Source: APO


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The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture and the Portfolio Committee on Fisheries, Forestry and Environment will today receive a briefing from the Wilderness Foundation Africa on various aspects of animal welfare and the protection of captive animals in the country.

The meeting, which will take place at The Lion’s Foundation in the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, in Limpopo Province will discuss the implementation and enforcement of animal welfare standards within wildlife conservation and rehabilitation facilities, with specific reference to ethical treatment, veterinary care, housing, and management.

The committees will also hear about institutional readiness for the implementation of the proposed Animal Welfare Bill, including interdepartmental coordination between environmental and agricultural authorities.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES

For media enquiries or interviews with the committee Chairperson, please contact:
Name: Sakhile Mokoena
Cell: 081 705 2130
E-mail: smokoena@parliament.gov.za

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Support to families of martyrs in Southern Region

Source: APO


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The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare in the Southern Region reported that in 2025, over 68 million Nakfa was extended to families of martyrs. The report was presented at an activity assessment meeting conducted on 27 January in Mendefera.

Additionally, monetary and material support worth over 1.2 million Nakfa was distributed to families of martyrs through community initiatives, while over 4.2 million Nakfa contributed by Diaspora nationals was also distributed to families of martyrs.

Mr. Haile Gebremicael, head of the branch office, noted that the assessment meeting will make a significant contribution to strengthening the achievements already registered and addressing the challenges encountered. He also said that enhancing community-based rehabilitation and development programs is among the main activities planned for 2026.

The participants conducted extensive discussions on the report presented and adopted various recommendations.

Mr. Qaleab Tesfaselasie, Director General of Social Services in the region, urged proper identification of disadvantaged and disabled citizens who need support. He also emphasized the significance of strengthening labor relations in enhancing productivity.

Noting the significance of activities at the sub-zonal level in the implementation of programs, Mr. Mihreteab Fesehaye, Director General of Social Services at the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, called for conducting activities at the village level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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From Farm-ins to First Oil: How Collaboration is Driving Namibia’s Upstream Development

Source: APO


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As Namibia targets first oil production by 2029, collaboration has emerged as one of the defining forces shaping the country’s upstream trajectory. With deepwater exploration characterized by high capital intensity, complex geology and long development timelines, partnerships are no longer optional – they are essential. As the country advances towards first oil, platforms such as the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) emerge as central drivers, facilitating the deals and partnerships that power the country’s upstream development.

A Block Landscape Defined by Partnerships

Namibia’s offshore block ownership structure underscores the centrality of collaboration. Most acreage is held through partnerships combining supermajors, independents and national partners, each contributing complementary strengths. International oil companies bring technical expertise, deepwater experience and balance sheet strength, while independents often drive early-stage exploration momentum and innovative geological thinking. For Namibia, this opens the doors for greater investment, mitigated risk and accelerated project timelines, supporting the country’s transition from a frontier market into an African oil producer.  

Namibia’s Venus project is a clear example for how partnerships are supporting oil projects move from discovery to development. Led by operator TotalEnergies, the project is preparing to reach a final investment decision in 2026, with first oil on the cards for 2029 or 2030. The project – situated in PEL 56 – is held by TotalEnergies alongside Qatar Energy, Namcor and Impact. In December 2025, Galp acquired a 10% stake in PEL 56 under a broader deal which also grants TotalEnergies operatorship of PEL 83 – home to the Mopane discovery. Through the deal, the partners have launched an exploration and appraisal campaign which includes three wells over a two-year period – the first of which is planned for 2026. Through this diversified ownership structure, the companies have been able to pool capital, share risk and accelerate drilling across two of Namibia’s most prolific discoveries: Venus and Mopane.  

Recent M&A Activity Fuels Collaboration

Recent Merger & Acquisition (M&A) activity in Namibia reflects a broader trend by upstream companies seeking to leverage partnerships to drive exploration. In September 2025, Oregen Energy increased its ownership in WestOil Limited to 48.5%, granting the company a 33.95% indirect working interest in the Orange Basin’s Block 2712A. The company is advancing an exploration program in 2026, featuring a 3D seismic acquisition campaign and a farm-out process designed to bring in an international partner.

During the same month, Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas secured key license extensions across its Namibian licenses – PEL 97, 98, 99 and 100 – and farmed out its 85% interest in PEL 98 to Lamda Energy. September also saw the acquisition of BISP Exploration Inc. by Stamper Oil & Gas Corp, granting Stamper controlling interests of five Namibian oil and gas blocks across the Orange, Walvis and Lüderitz basins. Energy major Chevron acquired an 80% stake in PEL 82 – situated in the Walvis Basin – while Sintana Energy acquired Challenger Energy Group. The deal grants Sintana access to eight licenses in Namibia.

These moves signal operators’ readiness to invest, collaborate and drive upstream projects forward in Namibia. By pursuing strategic farm-ins and expanding portfolios, exploration and production companies are not only driving the country toward first oil production but validating the market’s position as one of the world’s leading frontier oil and gas provinces. 

NIEC: A Platform Where Collaboration Takes Shape

As international players consolidate their Namibian portfolios, NIEC 2026 emerges as a strategic platform for companies to connect with partners and advance strategic M&A deals. Returning to Windhoek for its 8th edition from 14–16 April 2026, NIEC brings together international operators, independents, financiers and Namibian stakeholders under a broader goal of establishing strategies for The Road to First Oil and Beyond.

More than a conference, NIEC functions as an ecosystem for collaboration – facilitating farm-ins, project partnerships and financing discussions that translate ambition into execution. As Namibia’s exploration story continues to unfold, it is these collaborative frameworks, forged both in boardrooms and on conference floors, that will ultimately determine how quickly and sustainably the country reaches first oil.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Examining Angola’s Pragmatic Path to Energy Security and Low-Carbon Growth

Source: APO


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As global energy debates continue to pit hydrocarbons against decarbonization, Angola is charting a pragmatic middle path. The country is accelerating hydrocarbon development to meet domestic and regional petroleum demand while deploying innovative technologies and cleaner fuels to reduce emissions. By pairing oil-led growth with low-carbon solutions such as non-associated gas, Angola is demonstrating that energy security and climate responsibility work hand-in-hand – offering a blueprint for emerging producers across Africa navigating the energy transition on their own terms.

Driving Oil Production Through Innovation

Accounting for 90% of export earnings and 60% of government revenue, oil forms the backbone of Angola’s economy – and a centerpiece of its national energy strategy. The country has outlined clear production goals: sustain output above one million barrels per day (bpd) in the short- to medium-term, backed by a multi-year licensing strategy as well as a Permanent Offer Regime. As a result, operators are expanding their investments, with a $70 billion investment pipeline over the next five years set to support production growth in the long-term.

While crude output scales, operators are increasingly integrating decarbonization into project design, ensuring that growth in output is matched by lower emissions intensity and more efficient offshore operations. Recent projects reflect this approach. Azule Energy’s Agogo Integrated West Hub project – situated in Block 15/06 – exemplifies the company’s Low Carbon, Fast Track development model. Initially spearheaded by Eni, the model maximizes value while minimizing time-to-market, subsurface risks and carbon emissions. The Agogo FPSO’s full-electric topside and marine systems, combined cycle power generation system and Carbon Capture and Storage unit showcases this approach, representing the first FPSO in Angola where operational carbon emissions are fully offset.

TotalEnergies is deploying a similar design at its Kaminho project (https://apo-opa.co/45DjGBt) – set to come online in 2028. The project comprises the conversion of a Very Large Crude Carrier into an FPSO unit, which is designed to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and eliminate routine flaring. Like Agogo (https://apo-opa.co/4qR5ZYj), the FPSO is all-electric, with associated gas expected to be reinjected into the reservoirs. By integrating electrification, energy efficiency and advanced process control, Angola is demonstrating that large-scale oil developments can align with global emissions expectations without compromising output.

Non-Associated Gas as a Low-Carbon Growth Engine

Alongside oil, Angola is accelerating the development of non-associated gas as a strategic low-carbon fuel. The launch of the New Gas Consortium project – featuring the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields – in 2025 marked a turning point, unlocking domestic gas supply to support power generation, industrial development and LNG expansion. Angola’s non-associated gas ambitions were further bolstered with Azule Energy’s gas discovery at the Gajajeira-01 well in Block 1/14 in 2025.

However, the African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) State of African Energy 2026 Outlook (https://apo-opa.co/45yYBbp) highlights key challenges in Angola’s quest for non-associated gas, specifically regarding the lack of requisite infrastructure to support gas evacuation from offshore fields. Advancing the country’s gas development – and subsequently, its energy addition strategy – will require a shift from upstream-focused investment to downstream development, highlighting a unique investment opportunity for international players.

“Angola proves that ‘drill baby drill’ is not about reckless extraction; it is about responsible development. It is about using world-class technology, lowering emissions per barrel, monetizing gas to power economies and ensuring energy security for millions of people who still lack access. Angola understands that you cannot transition from energy poverty without first producing energy, and that hydrocarbons, developed responsibly, remain central to Africa’s growth story,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

AOG 2026: Investing in the Future of Angola

The Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) Conference & Exhibition brings the country’s energy strategy into sharp focus. By connecting government, policymakers, investors, operators and service providers under one roof, the event positions Angola’s development needs at the forefront of global energy dialogue. The next edition returns to Luanda from September 9-10, 2026 – with a Pre-Conference Day on September 8 – under the theme Investing in the Future of Angola, reflecting a national agenda rooted in realism: accelerate oil and gas development to meet domestic and regional energy needs, while deploying technology and cleaner fuels to lower emissions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre launched

Source: Government of South Africa

Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre launched

Eskom, together with the Government of the Netherlands and the Mpumalanga provincial government, have officially launched the Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre at the Grootvlei Power Station.

The move marks a milestone in linking the country’s Just Energy Transition to “new local economic opportunities in climate-smart food production and skills development”.

“The project is already delivering tangible outcomes. Eight community members from the Dipaleseng Municipality are currently being trained as greenhouse facilitators.

“Additionally, 75 agripreneurs, who are also community members, will participate in the Agripreneur Development Programme, commencing in April 2026.  Each agripreneur is expected to employ members from the community, and taken together, the programme is projected to support the creation of substantial sustainable jobs by 2030,” a joint statement said.

The centre serves as one of Eskom’s pilot initiatives under its Just Energy Transition (JET) Programme.

“[It is] demonstrating how repurposed energy-related infrastructure can support future-oriented economic activity beyond the energy sector.

“The focus is on practical training, skills development, and value-chain development in climate-smart horticulture rather than large-scale commercial production at this stage,” Eskom stated.

Eskom Board Chairperson, Mteto Nyati, described the project as an exciting example of partnerships bearing success.

“This project is an exciting early example of key stakeholders coming together to develop new economic activities that protect livelihoods and the local community as South Africa moves from a high-carbon to a lower-carbon economy.

“We are grateful for the leadership by the Minister of Electricity and Energy as the primary convener of JET, the significant investment by the Government of the Netherlands and its partners and the support of the Mpumalanga Premier and the Dipaleseng Local Municipality,” Mteto said.

The future development of the centre remains a priority.

“Looking ahead, the Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre is intended to inform the development of a broader agri-economic hub, integrating agriculture, skills development and logistics, with increasing private-sector participation.

“The Grootvlei project reinforces that South Africa’s energy transition is not only about changing power sources, but about creating new economic futures for people, land and local communities,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government launches efforts to rebuild basketball in SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Government launches efforts to rebuild basketball in SA

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has formally commenced a process to rebuild and stabilise the governance of basketball in South Africa.

This follows the de-recognition of Basketball South Africa due to prolonged governance and administrative failures that undermined the development of the sport.

The intervention is being undertaken in partnership with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), through FIBA Africa, and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC). 

The process aims to establish a new, properly governed national basketball federation that protects athletes, restores confidence in the administration of the sport, and secures basketball’s long-term future in South Africa.

“Basketball is more than a game. It is a global sport and a way of life that resonates across communities, generations and social boundaries. In South Africa, it is played and followed by people of all ages, from children and youth to senior citizens, and presents significant opportunities for youth development, social cohesion and international participation,” Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said on Wednesday.

According to the department, the sport is uniquely accessible, requiring minimal infrastructure to introduce at community level while offering pathways to compete at the highest professional and international standards. 

The growth of street basketball and the global rise of the 3×3 format have further expanded participation and opened new possibilities for innovation, inclusion and partnerships with corporate South Africa.

However, the Minister acknowledged with concern that persistent governance and administrative failures have eroded these opportunities and compromised the credibility and growth of basketball in the country.

“Basketball holds enormous potential for South Africa, particularly for our youth. It is precisely because of this potential that we could not allow continued governance failures to undermine the future of the sport. Our responsibility is to the athletes, the development pipeline and the long-term interests of South African basketball,” McKenzie said.

FIBA Africa, DSAC and SASCOC have been formally tasked with supporting a structured recovery and reconstitution process. This includes:

  • The formulation of a comprehensive roadmap for the revival and sustainable development of basketball in South Africa; and
  • The implementation of clear steps and interventions towards the establishment of a new national basketball federation, culminating in the election of a credible and representative executive leadership.

To support this process, FIBA Africa has appointed a member of its Board as its official representative to work closely with the department and SASCOC, providing oversight and technical guidance aligned with international best practice.

“This process is about restoring integrity, transparency and good governance. Working with FIBA and SASCOC, we are committed to rebuilding basketball in a way that serves players, administrators and supporters, and positions South Africa to compete successfully on the African continent and in major international competitions,” the Minister said.

The DSAC and SASCOC will provide periodic public updates on progress made, in line with the shared objective of ensuring that basketball reclaims its rightful place within South African sport and achieves sustained excellence at both continental and global levels. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa welcomes the Madlanga Commission Interim Report

Source: President of South Africa –

On 13 July 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System.

This followed serious allegations made by Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi about the existence and operation of a sophisticated criminal syndicate that has allegedly infiltrated the criminal justice system in South Africa. 

The Commission, chaired by retired Constitutional Court Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, assisted by Advocate Sesi Baloyi SC and Advocate Sandile Khumalo SC, submitted its interim report on 17 December 2025 in line with the delivery timelines that had been determined by the President. 

President Ramaphosa has studied the interim report and accepts its recommendations. 

President Ramaphosa further welcomes the referrals by the Commission of matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent decisions on prosecution, as well as recommendations on the employment status and recommended suspension of individuals. 

The Commission, in accordance with its terms of reference, makes several referrals concerning matters that require immediate further investigation by the relevant and impacted law enforcement institutions, including criminal investigations. 

The Commission also makes recommendations in some instances for disciplinary measures to be taken against individuals alleged to be involved in wrongdoing including criminal acts and corruption. 

Clause 7 of the Commission’s Terms of Reference empowers the Commission to “consider prima facie evidence relating to the involvement of individuals currently employed within law enforcement or intelligence agencies and, where appropriate, the Commission must make recommendations regarding the employment status of such officials including whether they should be suspended pending the outcome of further investigations.” 

Clause 10.4 provides the Commission with the “power to refer matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent decisions on prosecution, taking into account the nature of the allegations and evidence the Commission will uncover.” 

Clause 12 states that “the Commission shall, where appropriate, refer any matter for prosecution, further investigation or the convening of a separate enquiry to the appropriate law enforcement agency, government department or regulator.” 

President Ramaphosa expects all law enforcement agencies and other relevant criminal justice institutions to act with speed in implementing the recommendations of the Commission’s interim report. Such immediate action will help to restore public trust and strengthen operational capacity in the affected state entities tasked with fighting crime and corruption.

Where the Commission has said that there is prima facie evidence of wrongdoing, it has made referrals for investigation by the appropriate officials in the South African Police Service (SAPS), Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) or the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM). 

The referrals relate to the following SAPS officials:

1. Major General Lesetja Senona
2. Major General Richard Shibiri
3. Brigadier Mbangwa Nkhwashu
4. Brigadier Rachel Matjeng
5. Sergeant Fannie Nkosi

Prima facie evidence of wrongdoing was also found by the Commission with regard to the following current and former employees of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality:

1. Suspended EMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi
2. EMPD Officer Bafana Twala
3. EMPD Officer Aiden McKenzie
4. EMPD Officer Kershia Leigh Stols
5. EMM former City Manager Dr Imogen Mashazi 
6. EMM fleet manager/proxy Mr Chris Steyn
7. EMM Head of Department of Human Resources Ms Linda Gxasheka
8. EMM Head of Legal Adv Kemi Behari
9. Mr Etienne van der Walt

The matters highlighted for referral concern allegations of criminality, corruption, fraud, murder, perjury and other unlawful actions by officials and officers in the employ of the SAPS, City of Ekurhuleni and the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD). 

Where IPID is already seized with certain matters, the Commission will make a referral to IPID on the status of their investigations and seek explanations for any delays.

President Ramaphosa has noted that some of the implicated individuals will return to the Commission to respond to allegations presented against them and that more witnesses are yet to deliver their evidence. 

While the Commission emphasises that, with the exception of EMPD Chief, Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi, it has not yet heard the response of some of  the relevant persons listed above, the allegations against them remain prima facie allegations only and are not findings of the Commission. 

The nature of these allegations however warrants the referrals for further investigation and potential disciplinary, prosecutorial or regulatory action right away.

President Ramaphosa has directed the Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia, and General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of the SAPS, to constitute a special investigations task team, with a leader who will report directly to General Masemola. The task team will institute investigations against people identified by the Commission for investigation.

Establishing a special unit is critical to ensure that these investigations take place as a matter of urgency.

President Ramaphosa would like to express his deepest appreciation to the Commission chairperson, retired Justice Madlanga, Commissioners Baloyi and Khumalo, and to all the Commission staff for their diligent work in the delivery of the interim report. 

The President looks forward to the finalisation of the Commission’s work and its contribution to the effective functioning of law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system.  

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Griekwastad murderer’s parole set for review

Source: Government of South Africa

Griekwastad murderer’s parole set for review

Correctional Services Minister, Dr Pieter Groenewald, has referred the decision to grant parole to the infamous Griekwastad murderer to the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board (CSPRB) – for review.

The offender is serving a 20-year sentence for the 2012 murder of his mother, father and sister, as well as rape.

The Correctional Supervision and Parole Board (CSPB) in Upington had granted the 29-year-old parole.

He was a teenager at the time the crimes were committed and cannot be named.

“The CSPB in Upington approved the offender’s parole placement with effect from 25 March 2026 until the expiry of his sentence on 13 March 2034. Following careful consideration of the matter, the Minister has resolved that the decision be subjected to a review process in accordance with the provisions of the Correctional Services Act, 111 of 1998.

“Accordingly, the parole placement decision taken by the CSPB in Upington is suspended, pending the outcome of the review by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board, which is required to consider the full record of proceedings and either confirm or substitute the decision in accordance with the Act,” the department said in a statement.

Section 75(8) of the Correctional Services Act states: Any decision of a Correctional Supervision and Parole Board is final, except that the Minister, the National Commissioner or the Inspecting Judge may refer the matter to the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board for reconsideration, and pending the outcome of the decision of the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board, the decision of the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board is suspended.

“The Minister emphasises that this referral is not a determination of the merits of the case, but a lawful step to ensure that parole decisions are subjected to proper oversight, comply fully with legislative requirements, and uphold public confidence in the correctional system.

“The department will communicate the outcome of the review process once it has been finalised,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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