Category: English

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Source: Government of South Africa

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a serial rapist pastor in a harrowing case involving the sexual abuse of 12 minor children, including 10 boys and two girls, aged between seven and 14. 

The sentence was handed down by the Nquthu Regional Magistrate’s Court on 23 July 2025.

According to the CGE, the 59-year-old was convicted and sentenced to 10 life imprisonment terms for nine counts of rape and one count of attempted rape, seven five-year terms for seven counts of sexual assault, and seven five-year terms for exposure of a child to pornography between 2020 and 2022. 

The CGE also noted that the court did not deviate from the mandatory life sentences prescribed by the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997 for rape where the victims are under the age of 18. 

“This decision affirms the seriousness with which our courts ought to treat crimes of this nature, particularly against minor children. The Commission welcomes this outcome, which sends a clear message that such heinous crimes will be met with the full wrath of the law. 

“It is hoped that this judgment will serve not only as justice for the victims, but also as a deterrent to potential offenders,” the Commission said in a statement. 

The CGE stated that it has conducted an own-initiative investigation related to this issue. 

This action aligns with its constitutional and legislative mandate to monitor matters of gender-based violence (GBV), promote accountability, and protect the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups, specifically the minor children involved in this case.

“The matter required the coordination of multiple stakeholders in the criminal justice system and involved complex logistical and procedural challenges.” 

According to the CGE, the accused pastor lured children to his rented premises under the pretense that they were helping him with tasks and under the guise of offering spiritual or pastoral guidance, where the abuse took place. 

“He used his position of authority and trust within the community to manipulate and groom the children, exploiting their respect for religious and adult figures. 

“The Commission remains deeply concerned by the abuse of trust and authority within religious and community spaces.” 

This outcome is consistent with the key findings from the Commission’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Office during its investigation in the financial year 2024/25. 

The investigation focused on the implementation of Pillar 3 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF), which emphasises access to justice, safety and protection, and effective coordination.

“As part of the investigation, the Commission engaged with key role players, including the SAPS, NPA, and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, to assess the implementation of the pillar, including collaboration.” 

The Commission believes that this successful prosecution of this case demonstrates the importance and practical value of sustained interagency cooperation in ensuring accountability, promoting victim-centred justice, and removing systemic barriers to justice for victims of gender-based violence and child abuse.

Life imprisonment for self-proclaimed prophets

Meanwhile, the CGE said it has also noted with grave concern the recent arrests and sentencing of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors in Limpopo, Free State, and North West. 

This includes life imprisonment of Pastor Albert Tamasane on two counts for raping an 11-year-old girl, and three life sentences handed to Fezile Zozi in North West for raping women and minors between 2021 and 2023, under the disguise of spiritual revivals. 

In addition, Confidence Monyela of Limpopo was convicted on two counts of raping minors between the ages of 14 and 19, bringing into the spotlight the systemic issues that confront those who trust some men of the cloth.

“It raises fundamental questions about the abuse and sexual exploitation of women and minors at the hands of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors, taking into cognisance that some are still going on trial.

“These matters underscore the urgent need for child safeguarding mechanisms in all institutions, particularly those led by individuals in positions of trust,” the Commission added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has confirmed the death of four women in a bus accident that occurred on the R81 road in Sekgopo, Mopani District, Limpopo, on the evening of Saturday, 9 August 2025.

According to the preliminary reports from the provincial department, the driver lost control of the bus, causing it to overturn.

“Sadly, four women were declared deceased at the scene. Eight passengers sustained serious to moderate injuries, while 45 others, including the bus driver, suffered minor injuries,” the department said in a statement. 

The department said all injured passengers were quickly transported to Kgapane Hospital, Mankweng Hospital, and Van Velden Hospital for urgent medical care.

According to the SABC, the bus was transporting Zion Christian Church (ZCC) members from around the Giyani area to Moria when it overturned.

The exact cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of immense grief. We also wish those injured a full and speedy recovery,” the department said.  

In addition, the department has urged all road users, especially public transport operators, to exercise utmost caution, strictly adhere to road rules, and prioritise the safety of all passengers.

“Let us work together to ensure that every journey ends with the safe arrival of all travellers.” 

The MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Mme Susana Violet Mathye, is visiting injured passengers in various hospitals today. 

She is also expected to visit the accident scene later this afternoon. – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has condemned the recent killings of South African Police Service (SAPS) members, warning that it is not only an assault on the Justice and Crime Prevention Security Cluster, but a direct attack on the authority of the rule of law and the state.

Masemola was speaking on Saturday during a visit to the families of 51-year-old Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa and 45-year-old Sergeant Simon Masenye, attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team. 

The officers were shot dead on Friday while transporting a suspect from court back to prison.

The officers were escorting an awaiting trial prisoner, Jabulani Moyo, when they were ambushed in the Roodepoort town centre. Moyo remains at large, and a massive manhunt is underway.

According to the Commissioner, the SAPS has sadly lost three police officers in the last 24 hours, in the line of duty.  

In the last financial year, 27 men and women in blue died in the line of duty, and six police officers have lost their lives to criminal attacks and ambushes, from 1 April 2025 to date.

“These are not just numbers; they were mothers and fathers who have left families behind to fend for themselves. Most of them were breadwinners in their households, but most importantly, they were members who dedicated and laid down their lives in the line of duty by ensuring that all people living in South Africa are safe and protected from callous criminals.“

Masemola said they cannot remain silent, and “it cannot be business as usual when criminals have declared war on the authority of the state.“ 

“I am making this call again to all police officers in the country, do not die with the tools and resources that we have given you. The men and women in blue must act appropriately when circumstances allow them to act. Remember to always use force that is proportional to the threat. 

“I plead with you, do not let your guard down, always be a step ahead of these criminals to ensure the safety and security of the people of this country,” he said. 

The Commissioner said the Johannesburg Trio Task Team is a unit that is responsible for investigating house and business robberies as well as car hijackings.

He stated Sintwa had 23 years of service, having joined the organisation in 2002, while Masenye had 17 years, and both were attached to the Johannesburg Trio Task Team. 

He told reporters that the probe into how these detectives were shot and killed by Moyo is still ongoing. 

“This investigation is being led by the Hawks, and we are relying on the bystanders and witnesses as well as evidence gathered at the filling station where they stopped from the Roodepoort Magistrate Court and where the shootings happened. We are following up on every piece of information that will assist us in solving this case.” 

In addition, Masemola said they have established a multidisciplinary team led by crime intelligence operatives who have been on the ground actively searching Moyo. 

“A lot of questions have been raised on whether the awaiting trial prisoner was handcuffed. It is standard procedure that all awaiting trial prisoners must be appropriately restrained and placed at the back of a van. On whether Moyo was handcuffed or not and why members were travelling in a sedan, all these questions are under investigation…

“For now, our focus is on finding Moyo. We believe he has the answers we are looking for, and we will not rest until we find him,” he explained. 

Police have offered a R150 000 cash reward for anyone who has information on Moyo’s whereabouts, warning that he is dangerous and should not be approached. 

“He has no regard for life, and we are warning anyone who has information to come forward and not approach this killer.” 

The Commissioner also announced that the SAPS is offering a reward of R150 000 for information leading to the identification of at least 10 suspects involved in the shooting and killing of 47-year-old Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni. 

He was fatally shot while responding to a business burglary in Schoemansdal.

He also took the time to salute and thank all police officers out there who risk their lives daily to serve and protect the people of South Africa. 

“Let me thank you for being patriotic and for loving the badge and the South African flag. Do not let this deter you. Continue where your colleagues left off; we cannot afford to lose you. Be decisive in your approach. You know what you were taught,” Masemola said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has stressed that the first National Convention will proceed as planned on 15 August 2025, despite the challenges and calls for its postponement.

“The National Convention must happen so that South Africa’s people can take ownership and control of the National Dialogue. Invitations have gone out to organisations across the country, and delegates are preparing themselves to attend the convention. 

“It is at the National Convention that the people of South Africa will take over and run with the National Dialogue process,” the President said in a statement. 

This comes after representatives from the interim Preparatory Task Team (PTT) reported to the President that some members were divided on several issues. 

One major concern was the team’s readiness to host the National Convention as scheduled, along with other matters related to the organisation of the convention and the preparation for public dialogues.

Members of the PTT, representing several foundations involved in the initial planning of the National Dialogue, argued that the National Convention should be postponed to a later date.

Some foundations, including Thabo Mbeki, Steve Biko, and Desmond and Leah Tutu, as well as FW de Klerk, have since decided to withdraw from the initiative and step back from organising the event and participating in the PTT.

However, President Ramaphosa said he understood the National Convention to be a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country.

“Ever since we announced the date of the first National Convention, South Africans from all parts of society have been getting ready to take part in the local conversations that will follow. There is a great desire to get involved and be heard.”

President Ramaphosa stated that, despite the challenges faced, the first National Convention needed to take place this week and that postponing it is not feasible.

He expressed appreciation for the role played by the foundations in initiating, championing and driving the National Dialogue. 

While he expressed regret at their withdrawal from this part of the preparations, the President acknowledged their intention to continue to play a meaningful role in the National Dialogue as it unfolds.

The President has since met with the Co-Chairs, Deputy Chairs and the Secretary of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG). 

These are prominent South Africans who have accepted appointment by the President as volunteers who will use their standing and expertise to act as guarantors of the National Dialogue.

The Presidency said the meeting with the Eminent Persons Group leadership reflected broadly on progress towards the National Convention.

The EPG emphasised the need for inclusivity and credibility of the National Dialogue process.

They also called for more effective coordination, governance, as well as improved communication.

“The National Dialogue is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bring all South Africans together to resolve our challenges and build a better future. The Eminent Persons Group stands ready to play its part in making this a reality,” said Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, Co-Chairperson of the EPG. 

The EPG members reaffirmed their commitment to using their influence and expertise voluntarily to ensure that the first National Convention lays a firm foundation for an inclusive and vibrant national conversation.

The National Convention will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors to kickstart the National Dialogue process. 

Delegates are expected to advocate for the importance and benefits of a National Dialogue, outline key discussion themes, agree on the approach and methods for public dialogues, and finalise the establishment of a broadly representative Steering Committee to coordinate the implementation of the National Dialogue moving forward.

The Presidency believes that this week’s gathering will serve as a call to action for citizens to participate in an inclusive dialogue about the country’s challenges.

“The National Dialogue itself will take the form of public dialogues in localities and within various sectors across the country.

“To this end and in light of the difficulties within the PTT, the convention organising team has been reorganised and is being reinforced by various social partners and civil society formations. This will ensure that the National Convention is successfully held from 15 August 2025, and the National Dialogue process can begin.” – SAnews.gov.za

Source: Government of South Africa

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has visited the Northern Cape following the release of Health Ombud report on the treatment, complications, and deaths of psychiatric patients at the Northern Cape Mental Hospital (NCMHH) and the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital (RMSH).

Last month, Health Ombud Professor Taole Mokoena, released a report about his findings on the investigations done at the Northern Cape Mental Hospital and Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital.

SAnews reported last month that the Health Ombud report revealed severe shortcomings in patient care, including prolonged damage to electricity infrastructure that left patients freezing to death, acute staff shortages, dangerous medical negligence, and poor facility conditions, such as broken windows and leaking roofs.

The investigation uncovered multiple critical issues, with patients exposed to extreme cold during electricity outages, with one patient dying from hypothermia and others developing serious medical complications.

The investigation found that two patients at NCMHH died due to poor conditions, one from hypothermia and another from pneumonia, while a third patient at RMSH died from a stroke. 

The Ombud found that inadequate medical care and failure to follow clinical protocols contributed to the deaths.

The investigation was prompted by Motsoaledi, requesting the Health Ombud to do an investigation. 

Motsoaledi, who had requested the Health Ombud to do an investigation, travelled to the Northern Cape province to meet with Premier Dr Zamani Saul, Health MEC Maruping Lekwene, Finance MEC Venus Blennies-Magage, and the management team of the Department of Health, to discuss some of these findings. 

“By and large, the findings have to do with issues of human resources, procurement, clinical protocols and practices, inside the hospitals themselves. In the report, some health workers, including doctors and nurses, were fingered for not having performed certain professional clinical functions with diligence.

“After the initial meeting, where the Minister met the Premier, the MECs for Health and Finance, the Director-General of the province, with their officials, it was then agreed that all the labour unions had to be met,” the statement released on Sunday read. 

The Minister met with representatives from five labour unions, including the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA), the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA), the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU), the Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA), and the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW).

The Minister reported to them the purpose of the trip and the findings of the Health Ombud, and what is going to happen going forward. 

According to the department, the labour unions pointed out that they are unhappy about how the Health Ombud has fingered some of their members, and they wanted the Minister to investigate that. 

“The Minister informed them about the correct procedures in terms of the Health Ombud Report, that the Minister is not an appeals authority of the Health Ombud, and therefore he cannot review his reports. The Minister stated the law requires that when a person appeals, they must establish a three-member tribunal chaired by a retired judge or a retired magistrate. 

“The other two members may either be health professionals or legal professionals. Minister has, therefore, advised labour unions that anyone who is not happy, this standard procedure must be followed,” the department said.

Motsoaledi also provided an update to the unions on plans for improving staffing, procuring beds and linen, and hiring health workers in the health sector.

The visit ended with a site-visit at the two hospitals for the delegations to see for themselves some of the findings of the Health Ombud, and to acclimatise themselves in the shortest way possible, to try and implement the recommendations of the Health Ombud report. – SAnews.gov.za