BEIJING — Namibian prosecutors investigating allegations of kickbacks on government contracts with China have expanded their inquiry to include a Chinese contract to build a key railroad link, investigators said Friday, indicating that they suspect a pattern of corruption on deals with China.
On Friday, anticorruption investigators confirmed that they were investigating allegations that China National Machinery & Equipment Import and Export Company, or CMEC, had agreed to pay the same Namibian company 10 percent of the final contract price for help in sealing a deal to build a 38-mile-long rail link. The Namibian company, Teko Trading, was controlled by one of the nation’s public service commissioners, Teckla Lameck, and an associate, Kongo Mokaxwa. Investigators say the company existed only on paper.
Source: New York Times
Friday, July 31, 2009
South African President Faces Test, From Allies
Less than three months after his inauguration as president of South Africa, Jacob Zuma is facing a sustained challenge from some of the same people — the urban poor and the unions — who helped loft him to power.
With strikes and protests in the shanties that fringe South Africa’s wealthy cities, the images streaming out of the nation, to the embarrassment of the authorities, have sometimes reverted to visions of the police clashing with young men that became familiar during the township protests of the 1980s over apartheid.
“Violence and trashing are not allowed,” Mr. Zuma said after protesting municipal workers had spilled garbage that was left uncollected because of their strike onto the streets in central parts of Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban this week, the newspaper The Sowetan reported. “They must get arrested because they are interfering with the rights of other citizens.”
Mr. Zuma has appealed to people to be patient. “There must not be violence between us,” he told a rally last week in KwaZulu-Natal, his political heartland. “Let us work together.”
Source: New York Times
With strikes and protests in the shanties that fringe South Africa’s wealthy cities, the images streaming out of the nation, to the embarrassment of the authorities, have sometimes reverted to visions of the police clashing with young men that became familiar during the township protests of the 1980s over apartheid.
“Violence and trashing are not allowed,” Mr. Zuma said after protesting municipal workers had spilled garbage that was left uncollected because of their strike onto the streets in central parts of Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban this week, the newspaper The Sowetan reported. “They must get arrested because they are interfering with the rights of other citizens.”
Mr. Zuma has appealed to people to be patient. “There must not be violence between us,” he told a rally last week in KwaZulu-Natal, his political heartland. “Let us work together.”
Source: New York Times
South Africa's commitment to the International Criminal Court
The director general in the International Affairs and Cooperation Ministry, Dr. Ayanda Ntsaluba, reiterated South Africa's commitment to the International Criminal Court and stated that South Africa would respect its obligation to cooperate with the ICC, including in carrying out arrest warrants for sitting Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir.
As the leading African democracy, South Africa remains well placed to play a positive role in encouraging fellow African Union states that are party to the Rome Statute of the ICC to maintain their support for effective international justice. African and international civil society also looks to South Africa to challenge those African states that continue to push the continent to cease cooperation with the ICC.
The notes following the Briefing of Department International Relations and Cooperation’s Director- General, Ayanda Ntsaluba, can be found here.
Source: Human Rights Watch
As the leading African democracy, South Africa remains well placed to play a positive role in encouraging fellow African Union states that are party to the Rome Statute of the ICC to maintain their support for effective international justice. African and international civil society also looks to South Africa to challenge those African states that continue to push the continent to cease cooperation with the ICC.
The notes following the Briefing of Department International Relations and Cooperation’s Director- General, Ayanda Ntsaluba, can be found here.
Source: Human Rights Watch
Kebble’s buddies to repay millions
TRUSTEES of the estate of Brett Kebble are demanding millions of rands from former leaders of the ANC Youth League and its investment arm Lembede Holdings.
They are said to have benefitted from their relationship with the slain mining magnate. Also said to have benefitted are senior ANC members who had a relationship with Kebble.
The trustees have listed ANCYL member Lunga Ncwana, his wife Nora and the Ncwana Family Trust as having received up to R10million from Kebble between 2003 and 2005.
Various branches of the league are listed as owing a combined R4,6million.
Source: The Sowetan
They are said to have benefitted from their relationship with the slain mining magnate. Also said to have benefitted are senior ANC members who had a relationship with Kebble.
The trustees have listed ANCYL member Lunga Ncwana, his wife Nora and the Ncwana Family Trust as having received up to R10million from Kebble between 2003 and 2005.
Various branches of the league are listed as owing a combined R4,6million.
Source: The Sowetan
African Civil Society Urges African States Parties to the Rome Statute to Reaffirm Their Commitment to the ICC
On 3 July 2009 the African Union (AU) agreed that its members should withhold cooperation from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the arrest and surrender of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. The court issued its arrest warrant for President al-Bashir on 4 March 2009 for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur.
The AU's decision threatens to block justice for victims of the worst crimes committed on the continent. It is inconsistent with article 4 of the AU's constitutive act that rejects impunity, as well as the treaty obligations of the 30 African governments that ratified the Rome Statute of the ICC. The decision also undermines the consensus reached by African ICC States Parties at a meeting in Addis Ababa in June 2009.
Recognizing our obligation to help protect human rights and uphold the rule of law, we, the undersigned civil society organizations, appeal to African ICC States Parties to reaffirm their support for the ICC and their commitment to abide by their obligations under the Rome Statute, particularly in relation to the arrest and transfer of the President of Sudan to the ICC.
The ICC was created to bring accountability for the most serious crimes of international concern: genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. African governments, together with civil society, played an active role in establishing the court and African governments were among the founding ratifiers of the Rome Statute.
A majority of African countries are now Parties to the ICC: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. In ratifying the Rome Statute, these states signaled their dedication to cooperate with the ICC to defend the rights of victims and to ensure that the perpetrators of the most serious crimes known to humankind, whoever they might be, are brought to justice.
In Addis Ababa in June, those states underscored their continued support for the court. Proposals to consider making recommendations in relation to possible withdrawal from the ICC or withholding cooperation from the court failed to win a consensus.
The decision adopted at the AU summit just three weeks later is a backward step. The basis provided by the AU for withholding cooperation with the ICC is the UN Security Council's lack of response to the AU's request for a deferral of the ICC's case against President al-Bashir. Consistent with States Parties' obligations under the Rome Statute, this is a matter to direct to the Security Council and does not warrant withholding cooperation from the ICC.
Following the AU summit, the governments of Botswana and Uganda issued statements reiterating their commitment to cooperating with the ICC. These statements are important.
Civil society across the continent has expressed concern about the AU decision. Ensuring that the determined steps to end impunity on our continent are not undermined requires a collective effort by all Africans. Instead of retreating from important achievements to date, we look to our governments to remain steadfast in their support for justice for victims of the worst crimes, including by reaffirming their commitment to cooperate with the ICC.
Source: Human Rights Watch
The AU's decision threatens to block justice for victims of the worst crimes committed on the continent. It is inconsistent with article 4 of the AU's constitutive act that rejects impunity, as well as the treaty obligations of the 30 African governments that ratified the Rome Statute of the ICC. The decision also undermines the consensus reached by African ICC States Parties at a meeting in Addis Ababa in June 2009.
Recognizing our obligation to help protect human rights and uphold the rule of law, we, the undersigned civil society organizations, appeal to African ICC States Parties to reaffirm their support for the ICC and their commitment to abide by their obligations under the Rome Statute, particularly in relation to the arrest and transfer of the President of Sudan to the ICC.
The ICC was created to bring accountability for the most serious crimes of international concern: genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. African governments, together with civil society, played an active role in establishing the court and African governments were among the founding ratifiers of the Rome Statute.
A majority of African countries are now Parties to the ICC: Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. In ratifying the Rome Statute, these states signaled their dedication to cooperate with the ICC to defend the rights of victims and to ensure that the perpetrators of the most serious crimes known to humankind, whoever they might be, are brought to justice.
In Addis Ababa in June, those states underscored their continued support for the court. Proposals to consider making recommendations in relation to possible withdrawal from the ICC or withholding cooperation from the court failed to win a consensus.
The decision adopted at the AU summit just three weeks later is a backward step. The basis provided by the AU for withholding cooperation with the ICC is the UN Security Council's lack of response to the AU's request for a deferral of the ICC's case against President al-Bashir. Consistent with States Parties' obligations under the Rome Statute, this is a matter to direct to the Security Council and does not warrant withholding cooperation from the ICC.
Following the AU summit, the governments of Botswana and Uganda issued statements reiterating their commitment to cooperating with the ICC. These statements are important.
Civil society across the continent has expressed concern about the AU decision. Ensuring that the determined steps to end impunity on our continent are not undermined requires a collective effort by all Africans. Instead of retreating from important achievements to date, we look to our governments to remain steadfast in their support for justice for victims of the worst crimes, including by reaffirming their commitment to cooperate with the ICC.
Source: Human Rights Watch
Thursday, July 30, 2009
M&G Oilgate exposé vindicated
The Mail & Guardian welcomed Thursday's ruling by Judge Ntsikelelo Poswa of the Gauteng North High Court overturning Public Protector Lawrence Mushwana’s report on the Oilgate scandal.
The M&G took Mushwana’s report, widely held to have been a “whitewash”, on review under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act following its release in July 2005. Judge Poswa heard the matter in November 2007 and gave judgement on Thursday.
Among the more odious aspects of Mushwana’s report were that he refused to pursue the money trail to the ANC, claiming that this was private and outside his mandate, and that he ignored clear evidence of wrongdoing relating to aspects of the allegations that he did investigate.
The M&G revealed in May 2005 how R11-million in taxpayers’ money had flowed from PetroSA, the state oil company, to the ANC through empowerment oil trader Imvume Management.
Source: Mail & Guardian
The M&G took Mushwana’s report, widely held to have been a “whitewash”, on review under the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act following its release in July 2005. Judge Poswa heard the matter in November 2007 and gave judgement on Thursday.
Among the more odious aspects of Mushwana’s report were that he refused to pursue the money trail to the ANC, claiming that this was private and outside his mandate, and that he ignored clear evidence of wrongdoing relating to aspects of the allegations that he did investigate.
The M&G revealed in May 2005 how R11-million in taxpayers’ money had flowed from PetroSA, the state oil company, to the ANC through empowerment oil trader Imvume Management.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Guantanamo inmate to be released
The Obama administration says it will release Mohamed Jawad, who has been held at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp since 2002. Earlier this month officials admitted that there was no military case for Mr Jawad's continued detention. But government lawyers had said they wished to keep him in detention pending a possible criminal prosecution. The decision could set a precedent leading to the release of other Guantanamo inmates.
His lawyers say they are confident that Mr Jawad will be released and allowed to return to Afghanistan, but the US government still has three weeks to complete a separate criminal investigation before deciding his future. Mr Jawad was arrested in Afghanistan in December 2002, after being accused of throwing a grenade at a jeep and injuring two US soldiers and their interpreter.
His lawyers say he was 12 years old at the time of his arrest, although Pentagon officials say a bone scan indicates that he was actually 17. Shortly after his arrest, he was transported to the US detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, where he is still being held. His lawyers campaigned for his release, arguing that his confession had been obtained by Afghan officials using torture. In October 2008, a military judge ruled the confession inadmissible and on 16 July, Judge Huvelle described the US government's case against Mr Jawad as "an outrage" that was "riddled with holes".
On Friday US authorities said they no longer considered him to be a military prisoner. But they also said that they intended to construct a criminal case against Mr Jawad, and that he should remain in detention while they did so. "After seven years of injustice this was a victory for the rule of law," said Major Eric Montalvo, a lawyer for Mr Jawad. "Finally we've turned the corner on Guantanamo," he told the BBC's Jonathan Beale in Washington.
Observers say the decision could mean that other Guantanamo detainees will also be released. Shortly after entering the White House, US President Barack Obama pledged to close the prison at Guantanamo Bay. Since making the pledge, administration officials have been reviewing the case files of Guantanamo detainees in an attempt to determine which prisoners should face criminal trials, which should face military commissions, which should be released and which can neither be tried nor released. Mr Obama said he wanted the camp closed by January 2010.
Source: BBC
His lawyers say they are confident that Mr Jawad will be released and allowed to return to Afghanistan, but the US government still has three weeks to complete a separate criminal investigation before deciding his future. Mr Jawad was arrested in Afghanistan in December 2002, after being accused of throwing a grenade at a jeep and injuring two US soldiers and their interpreter.
His lawyers say he was 12 years old at the time of his arrest, although Pentagon officials say a bone scan indicates that he was actually 17. Shortly after his arrest, he was transported to the US detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, where he is still being held. His lawyers campaigned for his release, arguing that his confession had been obtained by Afghan officials using torture. In October 2008, a military judge ruled the confession inadmissible and on 16 July, Judge Huvelle described the US government's case against Mr Jawad as "an outrage" that was "riddled with holes".
On Friday US authorities said they no longer considered him to be a military prisoner. But they also said that they intended to construct a criminal case against Mr Jawad, and that he should remain in detention while they did so. "After seven years of injustice this was a victory for the rule of law," said Major Eric Montalvo, a lawyer for Mr Jawad. "Finally we've turned the corner on Guantanamo," he told the BBC's Jonathan Beale in Washington.
Observers say the decision could mean that other Guantanamo detainees will also be released. Shortly after entering the White House, US President Barack Obama pledged to close the prison at Guantanamo Bay. Since making the pledge, administration officials have been reviewing the case files of Guantanamo detainees in an attempt to determine which prisoners should face criminal trials, which should face military commissions, which should be released and which can neither be tried nor released. Mr Obama said he wanted the camp closed by January 2010.
Source: BBC
Media win right to cover JSC Hlophe hearing
The Mail & Guardian, together with Avusa, Independent Newspapers and e.tv, has won a significant battle for press freedom and the principle of open democracy.
At 4pm on Wednesday Judge Frans Malan ruled in the South Gauteng High Court that a "preliminary investigation" by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) into a complaint of misconduct against Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe, and his counter-complaint against the judges of the Constitutional Court, must be opened to the public and the media.
"An order is made ... directing the [JSC] to permit representatives from the media to attend the preliminary hearing/investigation," said Malan.
He also said the media houses must be permitted to "set up such equipment as is necessary in order to obtain a sound recording" of the hearing for broadcasting purposes.
The JSC was made responsible for the costs of the case.
The JSC had sought to hold the hearings, which are to be conducted by a three-person subcommittee of the JSC complaints committee, in private, despite the fact that it had already conducted an extensive review of the evidence in public following an earlier court ruling by Judge Nigel Willis.
Advocates Kate Hofmeyer, for the M&G, and Steven Budlender, for e.tv, argued that the decision to exclude the public breached fundamental principles of the Constitution and of administrative justice.
Source: Mail & Guardian
At 4pm on Wednesday Judge Frans Malan ruled in the South Gauteng High Court that a "preliminary investigation" by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) into a complaint of misconduct against Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe, and his counter-complaint against the judges of the Constitutional Court, must be opened to the public and the media.
"An order is made ... directing the [JSC] to permit representatives from the media to attend the preliminary hearing/investigation," said Malan.
He also said the media houses must be permitted to "set up such equipment as is necessary in order to obtain a sound recording" of the hearing for broadcasting purposes.
The JSC was made responsible for the costs of the case.
The JSC had sought to hold the hearings, which are to be conducted by a three-person subcommittee of the JSC complaints committee, in private, despite the fact that it had already conducted an extensive review of the evidence in public following an earlier court ruling by Judge Nigel Willis.
Advocates Kate Hofmeyer, for the M&G, and Steven Budlender, for e.tv, argued that the decision to exclude the public breached fundamental principles of the Constitution and of administrative justice.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Bheki Cele named SA's new police chief
Bheki Cele has been appointed South Africa's new police boss. He replaces embattled former police national commissioner Jackie Selebi, whose contract expires on Friday.
Cele, KwaZulu-Natal minister for community safety and who is known for his no-nonsense approach to crime, was announced as police national commissioner by President Jacob Zuma on Wednesday afternoon.
Cele will step into Jackie Selebi's shoes in August.
"We pledge that over the next five years the criminal justice system will be overhauled and that crime levels will be reduced. The filling of a key position within the SAPS [South African Police Service] is a key factor towards the achievement of this goal," Zuma told a media briefing in Pretoria.
Cele had "distinguished himself in a number of areas, including finding solutions to taxi conflicts in the province ... successful anti-crime campaigns as well as improving road safety on provincial roads and highways", Zuma said.
"We have no doubt that Mr Cele will lead the South African Police Service efficiently and effectively."
Source: Mail & Guardian
Cele, KwaZulu-Natal minister for community safety and who is known for his no-nonsense approach to crime, was announced as police national commissioner by President Jacob Zuma on Wednesday afternoon.
Cele will step into Jackie Selebi's shoes in August.
"We pledge that over the next five years the criminal justice system will be overhauled and that crime levels will be reduced. The filling of a key position within the SAPS [South African Police Service] is a key factor towards the achievement of this goal," Zuma told a media briefing in Pretoria.
Cele had "distinguished himself in a number of areas, including finding solutions to taxi conflicts in the province ... successful anti-crime campaigns as well as improving road safety on provincial roads and highways", Zuma said.
"We have no doubt that Mr Cele will lead the South African Police Service efficiently and effectively."
Source: Mail & Guardian
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Human activity is driving Earth's 'sixth great extinction event'
Population growth, pollution and invasive species are having a disastrous effect on species in the Southern hemisphere, a major review by conservationists warns.
Earth is experiencing its "sixth great extinction event" with disease and human activity taking a devastating toll on vulnerable species, according to a major review by conservationists.
Much of the southern hemisphere is suffering particularly badly, with Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring Pacific islands destined to become the extinction hotspots of the world, the report warns.
Earth is experiencing its "sixth great extinction event" with disease and human activity taking a devastating toll on vulnerable species, according to a major review by conservationists.
Much of the southern hemisphere is suffering particularly badly, with Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring Pacific islands destined to become the extinction hotspots of the world, the report warns.
Mpumalanga municipality to be probed
The Mpumalanga government will probe allegations of maladministration, fraud, corruption and poor service delivery in the Emalahleni municipality, it said on Thursday. It would include investigating water quality and the reasons for a lack of basic services in informal settlements and potholes, the office of co-operative governance and traditional affairs MEC Norman Mokoena said in a statement.
The claims were made by local residents and also contained in a handover report he received when he took office. "Upon receiving such allegations the MEC wrote to the municipality requesting them to respond to the allegations made against them. The MEC was not satisfied with the response and he has taken a decision to launch a full scale investigation."There had been violent service delivery protests in municipalities around the province in recent weeks, including Emalahleni.
Source: IoL
The claims were made by local residents and also contained in a handover report he received when he took office. "Upon receiving such allegations the MEC wrote to the municipality requesting them to respond to the allegations made against them. The MEC was not satisfied with the response and he has taken a decision to launch a full scale investigation."There had been violent service delivery protests in municipalities around the province in recent weeks, including Emalahleni.
Source: IoL
Mpumalanga municipality to be probed
The Mpumalanga government will probe allegations of maladministration, fraud, corruption and poor service delivery in the Emalahleni municipality, it said on Thursday. It would include investigating water quality and the reasons for a lack of basic services in informal settlements and potholes, the office of co-operative governance and traditional affairs MEC Norman Mokoena said in a statement.
The claims were made by local residents and also contained in a handover report he received when he took office. "Upon receiving such allegations the MEC wrote to the municipality requesting them to respond to the allegations made against them. The MEC was not satisfied with the response and he has taken a decision to launch a full scale investigation."There had been violent service delivery protests in municipalities around the province in recent weeks, including Emalahleni.
Source: IoL
The claims were made by local residents and also contained in a handover report he received when he took office. "Upon receiving such allegations the MEC wrote to the municipality requesting them to respond to the allegations made against them. The MEC was not satisfied with the response and he has taken a decision to launch a full scale investigation."There had been violent service delivery protests in municipalities around the province in recent weeks, including Emalahleni.
Source: IoL
Disgraced policeman dies in cell
A policeman with 24 years' service has died inside a police holding cell while waiting for his drug-dealing and racketeering trial to start.
Captain Sakhepi Shange was one of four senior West Rand police officers arrested in March and charged with intercepting drugs on the way to forensic labs and selling them to the criminal underworld.
Shange, 43, died in the early hours of Friday morning after falling ill the previous weekend and being taken to hospital and back at least twice. The cause of death - which comes two-and-a-half months before his trial was due to start - is unknown.
Source: IoL
Captain Sakhepi Shange was one of four senior West Rand police officers arrested in March and charged with intercepting drugs on the way to forensic labs and selling them to the criminal underworld.
Shange, 43, died in the early hours of Friday morning after falling ill the previous weekend and being taken to hospital and back at least twice. The cause of death - which comes two-and-a-half months before his trial was due to start - is unknown.
Source: IoL
Monday, July 27, 2009
Minister turns attention to Balfour protests
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Malusi Gigaba began a series of meetings in Balfour, Mpumalanga, on Monday to discuss the recent protests there, his spokesperson, Cleo Mosana, said.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Sicelo Shiceka released a report last week on the preliminary findings of a study on a recent spate of protests across the country. Researchers flagged a lack of responsiveness to issues raised by communities, tensions between political and administrative sections of some municipalities, allegations of fraud and corruption, ward committees not functioning at their full capacity, and poor planning.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Sicelo Shiceka released a report last week on the preliminary findings of a study on a recent spate of protests across the country. Researchers flagged a lack of responsiveness to issues raised by communities, tensions between political and administrative sections of some municipalities, allegations of fraud and corruption, ward committees not functioning at their full capacity, and poor planning.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Vavi blasts expenditure rule
COSATU general-secretary Zwelinzima Vavi has spoken against the purchase of new flashy cars worth almost R4 million by Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda and Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga.
Speaking to Sowetan yesterday, Vavi said the rule in the ministerial handbook, which allows ministers to buy cars worth 70% of their annual salaries, was “immoral and wrong”.
“Rule or no rule, they can’t just purchase expensive cars at taxpayers’ expense, giving an impression that they do not care about the message this opulence gives to the poor,” he said.
Speaking on the eve of a nationwide municipal workers’ strike , Vavi said: “Cosatu won’t be able to convince workers to go easy when they see cars worth millions bought by ministers. ”
“It is management with their hugely inflated salaries who are responsible for the sorry state of so many municipalities,” said Samwu general secretary Mthandeki Nhlapo.
Source: The Sowetan
Speaking to Sowetan yesterday, Vavi said the rule in the ministerial handbook, which allows ministers to buy cars worth 70% of their annual salaries, was “immoral and wrong”.
“Rule or no rule, they can’t just purchase expensive cars at taxpayers’ expense, giving an impression that they do not care about the message this opulence gives to the poor,” he said.
Speaking on the eve of a nationwide municipal workers’ strike , Vavi said: “Cosatu won’t be able to convince workers to go easy when they see cars worth millions bought by ministers. ”
“It is management with their hugely inflated salaries who are responsible for the sorry state of so many municipalities,” said Samwu general secretary Mthandeki Nhlapo.
Source: The Sowetan
Alpha Blondy Moves Summerstage
A sea of energetic fans from all over the world welcomed Alpha Blondy, known as the “African Bob Marley” to New York City’s Central Park Summerstage on Sunday, July 19th. The opening acts included performances by Lee “Scratch” Perry, identified as the “father” of reggae and Dubblestandart Sound System. The Ivorian reggae artist branded for his activism ignited this eclectic audience with his strong political lyrics that convey global peace and unity.
The origins of the crowd ranged from Brooklynites, to people from Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora of Africa. The celebration and dancing to the rhythms of his dynamic 12-piece band, the Solar System was non-stop. Alpha’s poignant songs for the evening where Cocody Rock and Peace in Liberia. He unified and uplifted his fans by combining a mini speech with chants into the microphone “Peace in Iraq, Peace in Afghanistan, Peace in Israel and Palestine, Peace in Sudan, Peace in Eritrea…” In the early months of 2008, an American tour was scheduled and was canceled as a result of Alpha experiencing serious health problems. His latest CD was released in 2007 titled “Jah Victory.”
Blondy was named as United Nations Ambassador of Peace for Cote D’Ivoire in 2005 and continuously remains dedicated to his humanitarian efforts through his charitable foundation Alpha Blondy Jah Glory. His mission is to eradicate generational poverty by providing grass roots social programs that are beneficial to the lives of underprivileged children and women from villages within Africa and Haiti.
The foundation’s remarkable programs are Tafari Genesis Retreat Camp and the Micro Loan Program. The camp is considered a safe haven, and escape, for many children who are victims of civil war, and chronic life threatening illnesses like sickle-cell anemia, AIDS and malaria. Alpha Blondy believes, “It should not hurt to be a child.” The plague of HIV and AIDS is causing many children to become orphans who are left to be raised by elders or grandmothers.
The Micro Loan Program provides training and financing as little as $50.00 U.S. dollars to assist women who have become head of households to manage, operate, and start their own businesses. Overall, Alpha Blondy empowers communities to become self sufficient by learning and utilizing basic skills. This concept generates opportunities for many women to maintain their integrity, rebuild confidence as well as provide for their families.
Source: Jamati
The origins of the crowd ranged from Brooklynites, to people from Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora of Africa. The celebration and dancing to the rhythms of his dynamic 12-piece band, the Solar System was non-stop. Alpha’s poignant songs for the evening where Cocody Rock and Peace in Liberia. He unified and uplifted his fans by combining a mini speech with chants into the microphone “Peace in Iraq, Peace in Afghanistan, Peace in Israel and Palestine, Peace in Sudan, Peace in Eritrea…” In the early months of 2008, an American tour was scheduled and was canceled as a result of Alpha experiencing serious health problems. His latest CD was released in 2007 titled “Jah Victory.”
Blondy was named as United Nations Ambassador of Peace for Cote D’Ivoire in 2005 and continuously remains dedicated to his humanitarian efforts through his charitable foundation Alpha Blondy Jah Glory. His mission is to eradicate generational poverty by providing grass roots social programs that are beneficial to the lives of underprivileged children and women from villages within Africa and Haiti.
The foundation’s remarkable programs are Tafari Genesis Retreat Camp and the Micro Loan Program. The camp is considered a safe haven, and escape, for many children who are victims of civil war, and chronic life threatening illnesses like sickle-cell anemia, AIDS and malaria. Alpha Blondy believes, “It should not hurt to be a child.” The plague of HIV and AIDS is causing many children to become orphans who are left to be raised by elders or grandmothers.
The Micro Loan Program provides training and financing as little as $50.00 U.S. dollars to assist women who have become head of households to manage, operate, and start their own businesses. Overall, Alpha Blondy empowers communities to become self sufficient by learning and utilizing basic skills. This concept generates opportunities for many women to maintain their integrity, rebuild confidence as well as provide for their families.
Source: Jamati
Saturday, July 25, 2009
SA plans three nuclear power stations
South Africa is considering the construction of three nuclear power stations on its coastline despite objections from environmentalists.
The country currently has Africa's sole nuclear plant, Koeberg, near Cape Town, which began generating electricity in 1984. It is surrounded by a private game reserve and has been targeted by environmental protesters.
Source: Mail & Guardian
The country currently has Africa's sole nuclear plant, Koeberg, near Cape Town, which began generating electricity in 1984. It is surrounded by a private game reserve and has been targeted by environmental protesters.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Waste company at centre of toxic storm
Residents of Clayville in Olifantsfontein near Kempton Park are locked in a fierce battle with a nearby hazardous waste-disposal company they say is poisoning them. And they maintain that it has links with the African National Congress (ANC).
The company in question is Thermopower Process Technology, Africa's largest hazardous waste disposer and a client of major companies such as Sasol, Monsanto, BASF, AngloGold Ashanti and Afrox Gas.
Thermopower is under investigation by the government's environmental police, the Green Scorpions. A neighbouring tile factory, Norcross, says it has had to shut down twice because its workers have become ill from emissions.
A Mail & Guardian investigation has revealed that Alan Norman, a former Absa executive described by some who have dealt with him as "the ANC's banker", has been central to the company's efforts to find an empowerment partner. Among those considered was Smuts Ngonyama, when he was head of the ANC Presidency under Thabo Mbeki.
Source: Mail & Guardian
The company in question is Thermopower Process Technology, Africa's largest hazardous waste disposer and a client of major companies such as Sasol, Monsanto, BASF, AngloGold Ashanti and Afrox Gas.
Thermopower is under investigation by the government's environmental police, the Green Scorpions. A neighbouring tile factory, Norcross, says it has had to shut down twice because its workers have become ill from emissions.
A Mail & Guardian investigation has revealed that Alan Norman, a former Absa executive described by some who have dealt with him as "the ANC's banker", has been central to the company's efforts to find an empowerment partner. Among those considered was Smuts Ngonyama, when he was head of the ANC Presidency under Thabo Mbeki.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
SA hit by service-delivery protests
A wave of protests has erupted in townships across South Africa over shoddy housing and public services, adding to pressure on President Jacob Zuma to deliver on promises to fight poverty. Police fired rubber bullets on Tuesday to break up about 200 protesters in Thokoza township outside Johannesburg, where they stoned police cars in anger at their dire housing conditions.
That followed a riot one week earlier in Diepsloot, also near Johannesburg, where two police cars were destroyed, buildings were burned and passing cars stoned in protest at moves to demolish shacks in order to build sewerage lines. More worryingly, a protest in eastern Mpumalanga on Sunday took on anti-immigrant colours as shops owned by foreigners were looted and burned.
That sparked anxious memories of the xenophobic attacks that swept the country one year ago, when about 60 people died and tens of thousands of foreigners fled townships for refugee camps. Protests over poor public service have soared this year, according to Municipal IQ, which monitors municipal services. Poor South Africans have staged 24 major protests so far this year, compared with 27 in all of last year, the group said in a statement. "We've got high levels of unemployment, the whole world is suffering from an economic downturn and that's not making it any easier," said Adrian Hadland, a director at the Human Sciences Research Council, a think-tank that advises on public policy. "Part of the frustration is local government is very uneven, and that is often the level of government where things are most keenly felt and expressed."
The African National Congress (ANC) last weekend called for an audit into municipal services, with the aim of aiding -- or sometimes pressuring -- cities to improve their performance. "The ANC put service delivery of local government at the centre stage," said ANC spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi. "Now we realise that our councillors in the municipalities might be needing intervention." "We need to directly fix the issues at hand, not the symptoms of the problem," Mnisi added.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, South Africa has made strides in improving housing while expanding access to clean water and electricity, building 2,8-million houses in 15 years. But more than one million families still live in shacks without power, often sharing a single tap among dozens of households. The problem has heightened as South Africa is at the height of winter, with freezing temperatures in Johannesburg and other parts of the country. "In the absence of electricity, a roof over your head, and running water, it is keenly felt," said Hadland.
Zuma took office two months ago, after campaigning on promises to step up the fight against poverty in a country where unemployment is officially at 23,5% but is believed much higher. But the country has slipped into its first recession since apartheid, and thousands of jobs have been lost this year, complicating plans to boost government spending to fight poverty. "There is quite a serious problem in the sense that there isn't just a straightforward way of resolving it, because the state structures are poorly managed," said David Bruce, of the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation.
Any meaningful solution will take years to implement, but in the meantime the government will have to tread carefully to avoid inflaming public discontent, Municipal IQ said. "What is called for now is level heads, and the opening of communication channels," the group said.
That followed a riot one week earlier in Diepsloot, also near Johannesburg, where two police cars were destroyed, buildings were burned and passing cars stoned in protest at moves to demolish shacks in order to build sewerage lines. More worryingly, a protest in eastern Mpumalanga on Sunday took on anti-immigrant colours as shops owned by foreigners were looted and burned.
That sparked anxious memories of the xenophobic attacks that swept the country one year ago, when about 60 people died and tens of thousands of foreigners fled townships for refugee camps. Protests over poor public service have soared this year, according to Municipal IQ, which monitors municipal services. Poor South Africans have staged 24 major protests so far this year, compared with 27 in all of last year, the group said in a statement. "We've got high levels of unemployment, the whole world is suffering from an economic downturn and that's not making it any easier," said Adrian Hadland, a director at the Human Sciences Research Council, a think-tank that advises on public policy. "Part of the frustration is local government is very uneven, and that is often the level of government where things are most keenly felt and expressed."
The African National Congress (ANC) last weekend called for an audit into municipal services, with the aim of aiding -- or sometimes pressuring -- cities to improve their performance. "The ANC put service delivery of local government at the centre stage," said ANC spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi. "Now we realise that our councillors in the municipalities might be needing intervention." "We need to directly fix the issues at hand, not the symptoms of the problem," Mnisi added.
Since the end of apartheid in 1994, South Africa has made strides in improving housing while expanding access to clean water and electricity, building 2,8-million houses in 15 years. But more than one million families still live in shacks without power, often sharing a single tap among dozens of households. The problem has heightened as South Africa is at the height of winter, with freezing temperatures in Johannesburg and other parts of the country. "In the absence of electricity, a roof over your head, and running water, it is keenly felt," said Hadland.
Zuma took office two months ago, after campaigning on promises to step up the fight against poverty in a country where unemployment is officially at 23,5% but is believed much higher. But the country has slipped into its first recession since apartheid, and thousands of jobs have been lost this year, complicating plans to boost government spending to fight poverty. "There is quite a serious problem in the sense that there isn't just a straightforward way of resolving it, because the state structures are poorly managed," said David Bruce, of the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation.
Any meaningful solution will take years to implement, but in the meantime the government will have to tread carefully to avoid inflaming public discontent, Municipal IQ said. "What is called for now is level heads, and the opening of communication channels," the group said.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
ANC disbands committees in two provinces
The African National Congress (ANC) has disbanded the North West and Western Cape provincial executive committees (PEC), and has moved the Eastern Cape's provincial conference to August due to widespread factionalism and patronage, party secretary general Gwede Mantashe said on Monday.
Briefing the media after a meeting of the party's top brass over the weekend, he said business interests, control of resources and patronage were at the centre of divisions in the North West, and have persisted for more than a decade.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Briefing the media after a meeting of the party's top brass over the weekend, he said business interests, control of resources and patronage were at the centre of divisions in the North West, and have persisted for more than a decade.
Source: Mail & Guardian
'Crooked' cop off for 16 months on full pay
Mpumalanga police commissioner Afrika Khumalo -- alleged in a sworn affidavit by drug baron Glenn Agliotti to have profited from drug trafficking -- has been drawing a salary for 16 months while staying at home on sick leave.
Khumalo told the Mail & Guardian he is still on "incapacity" leave, but would not say what is wrong with him or when he is expected to recover.
"I am recovering. I'm coming back to Mpumalanga," he said, before coughing loudly. "I am the police commissioner of Mpumalanga. Nothing has changed. As soon as I am better, I'm coming back."
Khumalo has not reported for work since March 23 last year. He claimed to be ill on the day he was due to respond at a press conference to media reports of Agliotti's allegations.
In a sworn affidavit to the National Prosecuting Authority on January 11 2007, Agliotti said Khumalo was implicated in an international drug-trafficking syndicate involving national police commissioner Jackie Selebi, who is on extended leave pending corruption charges.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Khumalo told the Mail & Guardian he is still on "incapacity" leave, but would not say what is wrong with him or when he is expected to recover.
"I am recovering. I'm coming back to Mpumalanga," he said, before coughing loudly. "I am the police commissioner of Mpumalanga. Nothing has changed. As soon as I am better, I'm coming back."
Khumalo has not reported for work since March 23 last year. He claimed to be ill on the day he was due to respond at a press conference to media reports of Agliotti's allegations.
In a sworn affidavit to the National Prosecuting Authority on January 11 2007, Agliotti said Khumalo was implicated in an international drug-trafficking syndicate involving national police commissioner Jackie Selebi, who is on extended leave pending corruption charges.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Monday, July 20, 2009
DOC hits back over BMWs
Criticism of minister Siphiwe Nyanda's recent splurge on two luxury BMWs is unjustified, as all official steps were followed, says the Department of Communications (DOC). In a statement, the department says: “The process of procuring the vehicles for minister Nyanda was done in accordance with prescribed guidelines, which are stipulated in the ministerial handbook.”
Nyanda purchased two BMW 750i sedans, for R2.2 million. Each car is valued at R1 135 000 and collectively come with R148 000 worth of extra features. The 4.3-litre, V8-engined cars are the latest 2009 models of the German manufacturer's flagship 7-series range. One has been purchased for Nyanda's office in Pretoria, while he will use the other in Cape Town.
The ministerial handbook notes that “ministers can exercise their own personal preference in terms of the make and type of vehicle to be procured, as long as they remain within the 70% of their annual salary limit”. According to the DOC, this rule applies to each of the minister's offices and the prescribed value includes whatever additional accessories that may come with a vehicle. The statement notes the DOC chose the “full maintenance lease” option from three purchasing options provided by the Department of Transport. The DOC says this option “brings the actual cost of the vehicles to government to the market value of the vehicle, less the residual value, which is on average 30%”. The department, however, failed to explain exactly what this means in terms of the final amount and was unavailable for comment.
Meanwhile, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) says it has scheduled meetings with the department to get detailed information on the minister's spending. The union says it is looking for an explanation from the department. “The CWU sees this matter as important, given the current economic situation. But it is important to get accurate information regarding the purchases. If the cars had reached their limits, they should be replaced – but more information is required,” said CWU secretary general, Gallant Roberts. The union, however, reserved any further comment, saying it will hold meetings with the department on Wednesday and will make a detailed statement following its discussions.
Source: IT Web
Nyanda purchased two BMW 750i sedans, for R2.2 million. Each car is valued at R1 135 000 and collectively come with R148 000 worth of extra features. The 4.3-litre, V8-engined cars are the latest 2009 models of the German manufacturer's flagship 7-series range. One has been purchased for Nyanda's office in Pretoria, while he will use the other in Cape Town.
The ministerial handbook notes that “ministers can exercise their own personal preference in terms of the make and type of vehicle to be procured, as long as they remain within the 70% of their annual salary limit”. According to the DOC, this rule applies to each of the minister's offices and the prescribed value includes whatever additional accessories that may come with a vehicle. The statement notes the DOC chose the “full maintenance lease” option from three purchasing options provided by the Department of Transport. The DOC says this option “brings the actual cost of the vehicles to government to the market value of the vehicle, less the residual value, which is on average 30%”. The department, however, failed to explain exactly what this means in terms of the final amount and was unavailable for comment.
Meanwhile, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) says it has scheduled meetings with the department to get detailed information on the minister's spending. The union says it is looking for an explanation from the department. “The CWU sees this matter as important, given the current economic situation. But it is important to get accurate information regarding the purchases. If the cars had reached their limits, they should be replaced – but more information is required,” said CWU secretary general, Gallant Roberts. The union, however, reserved any further comment, saying it will hold meetings with the department on Wednesday and will make a detailed statement following its discussions.
Source: IT Web
SA spends more on politicians’ bodyguards than border security
The police plan to spend R380 million on VIP protection services in the current financial year, compared with R225 million on border security.
Source: The Sowetan
Source: The Sowetan
Sunday, July 19, 2009
'South Africa cannot represent a whole continent'
The pledges trip easily off the tongues of global leaders on summit occasions, but experts canvassed by Agence France-Presse fear African nations may forever struggle to be truly heard no matter the global forum.
The days of undue Group of Eight influence on their lot may be numbered, given admissions at this month's summit gathering Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Russia and the US in Italy's earthquake-hit L'Aquila.
But the G14 some believe will now take precedence -- adding emerging economic giants Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa, plus Egypt -- may not offer much more, despite including two African voices at the table.
Neither South Africa nor Egypt could ever be said to represent the vast swathes of sub-Saharan Africa to which most aid is directed.
The leaders of the G8 nations vowed in L'Aquila to honour their promises to Africa and make up a $25-billion aid shortfall, but anti-poverty campaigners were not alone in demanding action not words.
Stephen Gelb, who heads up the Edge Institute in Johannesburg said "I don't take these pledges seriously because they don't carry any punishment if they're not met. No country is going to be kicked out of the G8 because it hasn't given aid to Africa."
Assefa Admassie of the Ethiopian Economic Association warned that the G8 "never honour their commitment[s]."
The solution, for him, is for Africans to take matters into their own hands. "We can't only blame G8 or multilateral organisations," he said. "We have to put our own houses in order."
Source: Mail & Guardian
The days of undue Group of Eight influence on their lot may be numbered, given admissions at this month's summit gathering Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Russia and the US in Italy's earthquake-hit L'Aquila.
But the G14 some believe will now take precedence -- adding emerging economic giants Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa, plus Egypt -- may not offer much more, despite including two African voices at the table.
Neither South Africa nor Egypt could ever be said to represent the vast swathes of sub-Saharan Africa to which most aid is directed.
The leaders of the G8 nations vowed in L'Aquila to honour their promises to Africa and make up a $25-billion aid shortfall, but anti-poverty campaigners were not alone in demanding action not words.
Stephen Gelb, who heads up the Edge Institute in Johannesburg said "I don't take these pledges seriously because they don't carry any punishment if they're not met. No country is going to be kicked out of the G8 because it hasn't given aid to Africa."
Assefa Admassie of the Ethiopian Economic Association warned that the G8 "never honour their commitment[s]."
The solution, for him, is for Africans to take matters into their own hands. "We can't only blame G8 or multilateral organisations," he said. "We have to put our own houses in order."
Source: Mail & Guardian
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Diepsloot violence bad omen for 2010
The South African Police Service's controversial handling of violent protests in Diepsloot has raised questions about the police's ability to manage the crowds expected at the World Cup.
Police used more than 1 000 rounds of rubber bullets, in some cases at close range, to disperse an angry crowd in Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg, the Star reported on Monday. Residents went on the rampage following rumours that they were to be moved to Brits in the North West province.
The Mail & Guardian reported last year that police struggled to control xenophobic violence across the country after the specialised crime combating units (CCUs) tasked with public-order duties were halved in the 2006 SAPS restructuring.
At the time Bilkis Omar of the Institute for Security Studies ascribed inept police action to low morale and inadequate in-service training in crowd management techniques in a democratic country.
"Since the attacks, and with the realisation that the CCUs are not able to perform optimally with minimal capacity, members in some provinces have been recalled to the units to take up public-order duties," Omar told the M&G.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Police used more than 1 000 rounds of rubber bullets, in some cases at close range, to disperse an angry crowd in Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg, the Star reported on Monday. Residents went on the rampage following rumours that they were to be moved to Brits in the North West province.
The Mail & Guardian reported last year that police struggled to control xenophobic violence across the country after the specialised crime combating units (CCUs) tasked with public-order duties were halved in the 2006 SAPS restructuring.
At the time Bilkis Omar of the Institute for Security Studies ascribed inept police action to low morale and inadequate in-service training in crowd management techniques in a democratic country.
"Since the attacks, and with the realisation that the CCUs are not able to perform optimally with minimal capacity, members in some provinces have been recalled to the units to take up public-order duties," Omar told the M&G.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Friday, July 17, 2009
Prisons fire fraud busters
In a major setback for the fight against corruption, the correctional services department has terminated its contract with Willie Hofmeyr’s fraud-busting Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
This comes after Correctional Services Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula was lauded this week for her hardline stance on good governance when she suspended prisons boss Xoliswa Sibeko.
Sibeko and the department’s acting finance chief, Nandi Mareka, were suspended pending an investigation into the approval of expensive rental houses for Sibeko and Gauteng prisons boss Thozama Mqobi-Balfour.
The true commitment of Mapisa-Nqakula and her department to fighting graft is again called into question by the termination of the contract with the SIU. According to SIU spokesperson Trinesha Naidoo, the department did not renew its contract with the unit when it came to an end on March 31 this year.
Source: Mail & Guardian
This comes after Correctional Services Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula was lauded this week for her hardline stance on good governance when she suspended prisons boss Xoliswa Sibeko.
Sibeko and the department’s acting finance chief, Nandi Mareka, were suspended pending an investigation into the approval of expensive rental houses for Sibeko and Gauteng prisons boss Thozama Mqobi-Balfour.
The true commitment of Mapisa-Nqakula and her department to fighting graft is again called into question by the termination of the contract with the SIU. According to SIU spokesperson Trinesha Naidoo, the department did not renew its contract with the unit when it came to an end on March 31 this year.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Minister Big Spender
Recently-appointed communications minister Siphiwe Nyanda has come under fire for his extravagant purchases, at a time when his department faces serious challenges. Despite his department recently coming under fire from Parliament for regressive policies and the mess at the SABC, the minister has spent millions on two luxury German cars.
Click here
Only three months into his tenure, Nyanda purchased two BMW 750i sedans, for R2.2 million. Each car is valued at R1 135 000 and collectively come with R148 000 worth of extra features. The 4.3-litre, V8-engined cars are the latest 2009 models of the German manufacturer's flagship 7-series range. One has been purchased for Nyanda's office in Pretoria, while he will use the other in Cape Town.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), which posed parliamentary questions to the minister on his vehicle spending, has questioned the acquisitions. DA spokesperson for communications Lindiwe Mazibuko said Nyanda's spending sent the wrong message to the public. “The ANC government, despite being in the grips of an economic recession and regardless of the endless public commitments by president [Jacob] Zuma to cut back on wastage, has not altered its approach to public spending: it continues to misuse public funds for entirely unnecessary purposes.”
The Department of Communications (DOC), in its response to the DA, refers to the ministerial handbook, which it says allows for the purchase of vehicles when the current official vehicle for a minister's office has reached 120 000km, or five years. The response further states the previous vehicle for use in Cape Town was nine years old and had reached 115 072km, while the one in Pretoria was four years old, with 137 194km on the clock. In its disclosure of vehicle cost and accessories, the DOC revealed the new Pretoria vehicle came with rear-seat entertainment at a cost of R23 000. An innovations package, which includes ambient interior lighting and a rear-view camera, ceramic surround for controls and adaptive headlights, was also included at a cost of R35 000. The vehicle also has a high-gloss satin chrome finish, valued at R5 600, and sun protection glazing for R6 200. The Cape Town vehicle also had a series of additional extras. A sports leather steering wheel, at a cost of R2 300, a rear-view camera for R5 000 and special wheel design for the 750i, valued at R3 000, also form part of the package.
Solidarity spokesman Jaco Kleynhans slammed the minister's purchases, saying Nyanda needs to set an example through wise spending. He adds that, while the minister's portfolio might not be seen as a priority, government has recognised the role of ICT in tackling key issues and the minister needs to start reflecting this. “The reality is we are in a recession and the example needs to be set by government. It needs to show that it can spend its money more wisely as income from taxes is reduced. Also, during this time, there is a bigger need for services, and government needs to show that it is cutting down on its spending,” he says. Kleynhans notes it is worrying that the industry and country have yet to hear from the minister on key issues, but his spending has come to the fore. He adds it is worrying that the country has not seen the minister take the lead in issues regarding the SABC board, reports of gross mismanagement by executives, or on telecoms infrastructure.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions declined to comment until it has studied the matter further. The DOC did not respond by the time of publication.
Source: IT Web
Click here
Only three months into his tenure, Nyanda purchased two BMW 750i sedans, for R2.2 million. Each car is valued at R1 135 000 and collectively come with R148 000 worth of extra features. The 4.3-litre, V8-engined cars are the latest 2009 models of the German manufacturer's flagship 7-series range. One has been purchased for Nyanda's office in Pretoria, while he will use the other in Cape Town.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), which posed parliamentary questions to the minister on his vehicle spending, has questioned the acquisitions. DA spokesperson for communications Lindiwe Mazibuko said Nyanda's spending sent the wrong message to the public. “The ANC government, despite being in the grips of an economic recession and regardless of the endless public commitments by president [Jacob] Zuma to cut back on wastage, has not altered its approach to public spending: it continues to misuse public funds for entirely unnecessary purposes.”
The Department of Communications (DOC), in its response to the DA, refers to the ministerial handbook, which it says allows for the purchase of vehicles when the current official vehicle for a minister's office has reached 120 000km, or five years. The response further states the previous vehicle for use in Cape Town was nine years old and had reached 115 072km, while the one in Pretoria was four years old, with 137 194km on the clock. In its disclosure of vehicle cost and accessories, the DOC revealed the new Pretoria vehicle came with rear-seat entertainment at a cost of R23 000. An innovations package, which includes ambient interior lighting and a rear-view camera, ceramic surround for controls and adaptive headlights, was also included at a cost of R35 000. The vehicle also has a high-gloss satin chrome finish, valued at R5 600, and sun protection glazing for R6 200. The Cape Town vehicle also had a series of additional extras. A sports leather steering wheel, at a cost of R2 300, a rear-view camera for R5 000 and special wheel design for the 750i, valued at R3 000, also form part of the package.
Solidarity spokesman Jaco Kleynhans slammed the minister's purchases, saying Nyanda needs to set an example through wise spending. He adds that, while the minister's portfolio might not be seen as a priority, government has recognised the role of ICT in tackling key issues and the minister needs to start reflecting this. “The reality is we are in a recession and the example needs to be set by government. It needs to show that it can spend its money more wisely as income from taxes is reduced. Also, during this time, there is a bigger need for services, and government needs to show that it is cutting down on its spending,” he says. Kleynhans notes it is worrying that the industry and country have yet to hear from the minister on key issues, but his spending has come to the fore. He adds it is worrying that the country has not seen the minister take the lead in issues regarding the SABC board, reports of gross mismanagement by executives, or on telecoms infrastructure.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions declined to comment until it has studied the matter further. The DOC did not respond by the time of publication.
Source: IT Web
Zuma under pressure over al-Bashir
Pressure on President Jacob Zuma to distance himself from the African Union (AU) decision to ignore the arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir mounted yesterday when a host of civil society organisations and prominent South Africans urged him to honour treaty obligations.
SA is a signatory to the Rome Statute under which the International Criminal Court (ICC) was established. Because the treaty has been ratified by Parliament, for SA to not observe its obligations is arguably unconstitutional and against the law. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for al- Bashir and this requires signatory states to execute the warrant should he land on their soil.
The group said Zuma and International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane were present at the AU meeting when the decision was approved to ignore the ICC warrant and “neither the president nor the foreign minister is reported to have raised any objections.
Yesterday, human rights organisations in SA, including the statutory Human Rights Commission, the Centre for Applied Legal Studies, the Centre for Human Rights at Pretoria University, the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention, the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, the Human Rights Institute of SA, the International Centre for Transitional Justice, the Institute for Security Studies, the Khulumani Support Group, the Legal Resources Centre and Lawyers for Human Rights, called for the government to abide by SA’s ICC obligations and to distance itself from the AU position.
“SA’s endorsement of the declaration requires it to break its international treaty obligations and to defy its own law and constitution . As a state party to the Rome Statute, SA is obliged to co-operate fully with the ICC in the arrest and transfer of President al-Bashir to the ICC, whether or not it agrees with the indictment.
“Should the South African government persist with its support for the decision, it will do so in open defiance of its own constitution and law.”
Source: Business Day
SA is a signatory to the Rome Statute under which the International Criminal Court (ICC) was established. Because the treaty has been ratified by Parliament, for SA to not observe its obligations is arguably unconstitutional and against the law. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for al- Bashir and this requires signatory states to execute the warrant should he land on their soil.
The group said Zuma and International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane were present at the AU meeting when the decision was approved to ignore the ICC warrant and “neither the president nor the foreign minister is reported to have raised any objections.
Yesterday, human rights organisations in SA, including the statutory Human Rights Commission, the Centre for Applied Legal Studies, the Centre for Human Rights at Pretoria University, the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention, the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation, the Human Rights Institute of SA, the International Centre for Transitional Justice, the Institute for Security Studies, the Khulumani Support Group, the Legal Resources Centre and Lawyers for Human Rights, called for the government to abide by SA’s ICC obligations and to distance itself from the AU position.
“SA’s endorsement of the declaration requires it to break its international treaty obligations and to defy its own law and constitution . As a state party to the Rome Statute, SA is obliged to co-operate fully with the ICC in the arrest and transfer of President al-Bashir to the ICC, whether or not it agrees with the indictment.
“Should the South African government persist with its support for the decision, it will do so in open defiance of its own constitution and law.”
Source: Business Day
Thursday, July 16, 2009
DR Congo: Hold Army Commanders Responsible for Rapes
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo should urgently investigate and prosecute senior army officials allegedly involved or complicit in rampant sexual crimes against women and girls, as part of its efforts to combat sexual violence, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. Human Rights Watch also called for a series of other actions to prevent sexual violence during conflict in Congo.
The 56-page report, "Soldiers Who Rape, Commanders Who Condone: Sexual Violence and Military Reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo," documents persistent sexual violence by the army, and the limited impact of government and donor efforts to address the problem. The report looks closely at the conduct of the army's 14th brigade as an example of the wider problem of sexual violence by soldiers. The brigade has been implicated in many acts of sexual violence in North and South Kivu provinces, often in the context of massive looting and other attacks on civilians. Despite ample information about the situation, military, political, and judicial authorities have failed to take decisive action to prevent rape.
"We have seen progress in the prosecution of ordinary soldiers for sexual violence," said Juliane Kippenberg, Africa researcher for Human Rights Watch's Children's Rights Division. "But senior army officers continue to be untouched. Their own crimes and their command responsibility for the crimes of their soldiers must be investigated and held to account."
During 2008, the United Nations registered 7,703 cases of sexual violence by the army, rebels, and other actors in the Kivus, in eastern Congo where the army has been fighting various rebel groups. The majority of the victims were girls. Military courts in Kivu convicted 27 soldiers of crimes of sexual violence during 2008. In March 2009, 11 soldiers were convicted on charges of rape as a crime against humanity in Walikale, North Kivu.
Source: Human Rights Watch
The 56-page report, "Soldiers Who Rape, Commanders Who Condone: Sexual Violence and Military Reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo," documents persistent sexual violence by the army, and the limited impact of government and donor efforts to address the problem. The report looks closely at the conduct of the army's 14th brigade as an example of the wider problem of sexual violence by soldiers. The brigade has been implicated in many acts of sexual violence in North and South Kivu provinces, often in the context of massive looting and other attacks on civilians. Despite ample information about the situation, military, political, and judicial authorities have failed to take decisive action to prevent rape.
"We have seen progress in the prosecution of ordinary soldiers for sexual violence," said Juliane Kippenberg, Africa researcher for Human Rights Watch's Children's Rights Division. "But senior army officers continue to be untouched. Their own crimes and their command responsibility for the crimes of their soldiers must be investigated and held to account."
During 2008, the United Nations registered 7,703 cases of sexual violence by the army, rebels, and other actors in the Kivus, in eastern Congo where the army has been fighting various rebel groups. The majority of the victims were girls. Military courts in Kivu convicted 27 soldiers of crimes of sexual violence during 2008. In March 2009, 11 soldiers were convicted on charges of rape as a crime against humanity in Walikale, North Kivu.
Source: Human Rights Watch
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Hawks under surveillance
The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has urged the new crime fighting unit, the Hawks, to remain viciously independent.
The fledgling crime investigations unit made at least three arrests in Cape Town during its first week of operations.
One of the people arrested was a Home Affairs official based at the controversial Nyanga Refugee Reception Centre.
Source: iafrica.com
The fledgling crime investigations unit made at least three arrests in Cape Town during its first week of operations.
One of the people arrested was a Home Affairs official based at the controversial Nyanga Refugee Reception Centre.
Source: iafrica.com
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Tension eases between courts and government
At the second judges' conference since 1994, Zuma and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Jeff Radebe launched a well-received effort to win judicial hearts and minds, but judges are standing firm on the controversial Superior Courts Bill, aimed at handing administrative control of the courts to Radebe's department.
Zuma opened the four-day conference on Monday by assuring members of the judiciary that the executive arm of government and the ANC respected the independence of the judiciary. "The transformation of the judiciary should be advanced and undertaken without interfering with the principle of judicial independence," Zuma said. "An independent judiciary is one of the cornerstones of any democracy. As the executive, we respect without reservation the principle of judicial independence and the rule of law."
In his closing remarks Chief Justice Pius Langa commented that "he said the right things. But they were not just right, they were also inspiring because they were affirming. He was expressing his confidence in the judiciary and affirming the independence of the judiciary." A resolution read out by Langa stated: "The judiciary should be empowered to administer courts and its own budget. To this extent the judiciary will work with, and cooperate with, other branches of government to develop a model of court administration that best reflects the principle of judicial independence."
The conference adopted various resolutions affecting the judiciary, including the recognition of a single judiciary with the chief justice at the helm.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Zuma opened the four-day conference on Monday by assuring members of the judiciary that the executive arm of government and the ANC respected the independence of the judiciary. "The transformation of the judiciary should be advanced and undertaken without interfering with the principle of judicial independence," Zuma said. "An independent judiciary is one of the cornerstones of any democracy. As the executive, we respect without reservation the principle of judicial independence and the rule of law."
In his closing remarks Chief Justice Pius Langa commented that "he said the right things. But they were not just right, they were also inspiring because they were affirming. He was expressing his confidence in the judiciary and affirming the independence of the judiciary." A resolution read out by Langa stated: "The judiciary should be empowered to administer courts and its own budget. To this extent the judiciary will work with, and cooperate with, other branches of government to develop a model of court administration that best reflects the principle of judicial independence."
The conference adopted various resolutions affecting the judiciary, including the recognition of a single judiciary with the chief justice at the helm.
Source: Mail & Guardian
'Fear made police cook stats'
The alleged cooking of crime statistics by police stations in three provinces is the consequence of "fear" instilled in police managers by former national police commissioner Jackie Selebi, Johan Burger of the Institute of Security Studies (ISS) has charged.
Last week the Mail & Guardian reported on the alleged manipulation of statistics by a KwaZulu-Natal police station and victimisation of a whistleblower.
Further cases of the concealment and destruction of dockets in Gauteng and the Western Cape have since been reported, including a whistleblower's claims that the Paarl police station failed to record or investigate 52 rape cases, including one involving a child of four.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Last week the Mail & Guardian reported on the alleged manipulation of statistics by a KwaZulu-Natal police station and victimisation of a whistleblower.
Further cases of the concealment and destruction of dockets in Gauteng and the Western Cape have since been reported, including a whistleblower's claims that the Paarl police station failed to record or investigate 52 rape cases, including one involving a child of four.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Thursday, July 9, 2009
ANC youth on nationalisation of mines
The African National Congress (ANC) Youth Leagues’ call for the nationalisation of South African mines has ignited diversified debate locally and internationally. ANC Youth League spokesperson Floyd Shivambu tells Mining Weekly that the ANC Youth Leagues’ call for the nationalisation of mines is within the context of the ANC's constitutional strategic goal. “The ANC's constitution commits all members to abide by the objectives of the Freedom Charter.”
He explains that the Freedom Charter states that unequivocally the mineral wealth beneath the soil that belongs to monopoly industries and banks shall be transferred to the ownership of the people as a whole. “The people as a whole is vividly distinguishable from State rentals of mineral wealth to big corporations who brutally exploit labour and unsustainably exploit mineral wealth to make big profits. “The Freedom Charter is a the clearest expression of what the ANC and alliance partners seek to achieve in South Africa and any person who is against the Charter is against the aims of the ANC and the revolutionary alliance,” Shivambu comments.
The ANC Youth League believes that this is even more relevant with the economic downturn. “We do not want the production extraction and trade of mineral wealth in the country to be profit driven. The profit motive, in particularly with regard to mining in the country, has not been helpful with the development of the South African economy. “Companies have been extracting mineral wealth from the country's soil without developing the communities where these minerals are being extracted. These same companies have also not significantly contributed to the industrialisation, beneficiation, and the diversification of the economy.”
Shivambu says that the country has been reliant on the production of mineral resources from mining for a very long time, and adds that it is not durable. “South Africa now needs to be competitive in other areas of the industry such as beneficiation. Most South Africans do not even know what the platinum is used for, yet 70% of platinum reserves are located in South Africa. The country needs to start beneficiating its resources,” he says.
The ANC Youth League believes that only when the State is in control of mineral production an opportunity will be created for the development of the country’s mineral industry. “The State will not employ people just because we want to make more money, and then cut labour when it suits us, with thousand of people losing their jobs and their lives because working conditions are not safe. “When the State is directly involved in the mining of these minerals, it is going to be more conducive to the people, developing communities and societies,” says Shivambu.
However, South African Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu told Reuters that the country would not nationalise mines despite calls from the ruling party's allies. She confirmed that the ANC's youth wing, as well as trade union federation Cosatu, have asked the government to take control of mines. "We are definitely not going to nationalise mines," Shabangu reassured. "The ongoing debate will not change the government's policy at all. It must be a concern for investors, but I want to assure them that as government we are not going to go on that route. The South Africa they knew yesterday is the same today and nothing will change. It is a non-issue," she said.
To that, Shivambu says that the Minister is not representing the views of the ANC. “We met with the ANC and as far as we are concerned, the policy of the ANC is the Freedom Charter which was reaffirmed in the recent congress of the ANC. “The Minister is not speaking on behalf of the ANC, she is speaking on behalf of government. Even though the government is constantly mandated by the ANC, at times there are those who miss the proper understanding and grasp of what the ANC is saying on certain issues. “The Charter speaks to the nationalisation of mines, and possibly at government-level that has not been given practical meaning, however, within the ANC policy that is a reality. We are sure that the ANC will be guiding government on how to move forward on this particular issue.” He says that investor confidence will not be harmed by the nationalisation of the country’s mines. “We are going to open up investment opportunities in other areas such as the beneficiation of minerals, where we do not have the capacity. However, in terms of control ownership of mines we need the state to be in control of the mines.”
Shivambu explains that the nationalisation proposal is not going to be a “big-bang” introduction, but a gradual introduction of State ownership. “Partnerships will be formed between the State and big corporations,” he says. Ultimately, Shivambu states that the ANC is for nationalisation of mines in the country, and that it will happen.
Source: Polity
He explains that the Freedom Charter states that unequivocally the mineral wealth beneath the soil that belongs to monopoly industries and banks shall be transferred to the ownership of the people as a whole. “The people as a whole is vividly distinguishable from State rentals of mineral wealth to big corporations who brutally exploit labour and unsustainably exploit mineral wealth to make big profits. “The Freedom Charter is a the clearest expression of what the ANC and alliance partners seek to achieve in South Africa and any person who is against the Charter is against the aims of the ANC and the revolutionary alliance,” Shivambu comments.
The ANC Youth League believes that this is even more relevant with the economic downturn. “We do not want the production extraction and trade of mineral wealth in the country to be profit driven. The profit motive, in particularly with regard to mining in the country, has not been helpful with the development of the South African economy. “Companies have been extracting mineral wealth from the country's soil without developing the communities where these minerals are being extracted. These same companies have also not significantly contributed to the industrialisation, beneficiation, and the diversification of the economy.”
Shivambu says that the country has been reliant on the production of mineral resources from mining for a very long time, and adds that it is not durable. “South Africa now needs to be competitive in other areas of the industry such as beneficiation. Most South Africans do not even know what the platinum is used for, yet 70% of platinum reserves are located in South Africa. The country needs to start beneficiating its resources,” he says.
The ANC Youth League believes that only when the State is in control of mineral production an opportunity will be created for the development of the country’s mineral industry. “The State will not employ people just because we want to make more money, and then cut labour when it suits us, with thousand of people losing their jobs and their lives because working conditions are not safe. “When the State is directly involved in the mining of these minerals, it is going to be more conducive to the people, developing communities and societies,” says Shivambu.
However, South African Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu told Reuters that the country would not nationalise mines despite calls from the ruling party's allies. She confirmed that the ANC's youth wing, as well as trade union federation Cosatu, have asked the government to take control of mines. "We are definitely not going to nationalise mines," Shabangu reassured. "The ongoing debate will not change the government's policy at all. It must be a concern for investors, but I want to assure them that as government we are not going to go on that route. The South Africa they knew yesterday is the same today and nothing will change. It is a non-issue," she said.
To that, Shivambu says that the Minister is not representing the views of the ANC. “We met with the ANC and as far as we are concerned, the policy of the ANC is the Freedom Charter which was reaffirmed in the recent congress of the ANC. “The Minister is not speaking on behalf of the ANC, she is speaking on behalf of government. Even though the government is constantly mandated by the ANC, at times there are those who miss the proper understanding and grasp of what the ANC is saying on certain issues. “The Charter speaks to the nationalisation of mines, and possibly at government-level that has not been given practical meaning, however, within the ANC policy that is a reality. We are sure that the ANC will be guiding government on how to move forward on this particular issue.” He says that investor confidence will not be harmed by the nationalisation of the country’s mines. “We are going to open up investment opportunities in other areas such as the beneficiation of minerals, where we do not have the capacity. However, in terms of control ownership of mines we need the state to be in control of the mines.”
Shivambu explains that the nationalisation proposal is not going to be a “big-bang” introduction, but a gradual introduction of State ownership. “Partnerships will be formed between the State and big corporations,” he says. Ultimately, Shivambu states that the ANC is for nationalisation of mines in the country, and that it will happen.
Source: Polity
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Forty million South Africans without medical aid
Only about 14% of South Africans belong to a medical aid scheme, the Health Systems Trust (HST) said on Monday.
This left a balance of more than 40-million people without cover and dependent on the public health sector, spokesperson Fiorenza Monticelli said in a statement distributed at the health informatics SA conference held in Johannesburg.
Source: Mail & Guardian
This left a balance of more than 40-million people without cover and dependent on the public health sector, spokesperson Fiorenza Monticelli said in a statement distributed at the health informatics SA conference held in Johannesburg.
Source: Mail & Guardian
New crime-fighting unit dubbed the Hawks
South Africa's new Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations has been dubbed "the Hawks".
Anwa Dramat, the head of the unit, said it would focus on fighting organised crime and corruption as well as serious economic crimes.
He said 288 cases from the Scorpions -- which the new unit replaces -- would be transferred to the Hawks. Two hundred and twenty former members of the Scorpions would also be transferred to the new unit.
Anwa Dramat, the head of the unit, said it would focus on fighting organised crime and corruption as well as serious economic crimes.
He said 288 cases from the Scorpions -- which the new unit replaces -- would be transferred to the Hawks. Two hundred and twenty former members of the Scorpions would also be transferred to the new unit.
Monday, July 6, 2009
We respect judicial independence, says Zuma
A call to reform South Africa's judiciary does not mean judges' independence will be compromised, President Jacob Zuma said on Monday, seeking to allay concern about judicial autonomy under his rule.
Zuma caused a stir before he was elected president in April when he said the judiciary needed to change and judges should not be above criticism.
Zuma battled corruption and graft charges for years before they were dropped on a technicality two weeks before the general election. His supporters criticised the judiciary, with some saying there were "counter-revolutionary" forces in the system.
On Monday, Zuma told a judges' conference: "Let me from the onset state that the transformation of the judiciary should be advanced and undertaken without interfering with the principle of judicial independence."
"An independent judiciary is one of the cornerstones of any democracy. As the executive we respect without reservation the principle of judicial independence and the rule of law." But he said judges could be criticised.
"All South Africans accept the fact that the judiciary is the final arbiter of all disputes ... However, that does not mean that the judiciary and other dispute resolution institutions should be beyond criticism."
"Criticism of the said institutions is allowed and indeed proper in a democratic society, but it should be fair and informed," Zuma said.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Zuma caused a stir before he was elected president in April when he said the judiciary needed to change and judges should not be above criticism.
Zuma battled corruption and graft charges for years before they were dropped on a technicality two weeks before the general election. His supporters criticised the judiciary, with some saying there were "counter-revolutionary" forces in the system.
On Monday, Zuma told a judges' conference: "Let me from the onset state that the transformation of the judiciary should be advanced and undertaken without interfering with the principle of judicial independence."
"An independent judiciary is one of the cornerstones of any democracy. As the executive we respect without reservation the principle of judicial independence and the rule of law." But he said judges could be criticised.
"All South Africans accept the fact that the judiciary is the final arbiter of all disputes ... However, that does not mean that the judiciary and other dispute resolution institutions should be beyond criticism."
"Criticism of the said institutions is allowed and indeed proper in a democratic society, but it should be fair and informed," Zuma said.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Spy war at PetroSA
Papers filed in a court case shed light on a bizarre spy war at PetroSA that involved a bug sweep by the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).
At the same time, worker protests have erupted at the parastatal over the suspension of a trade union member, allegedly for leaking information to the Mail & Guardian after his emails were searched by management.
Workers allege a general witch-hunt against critics and dissenters at PetroSA. They link it to management's fears that criticism could derail a huge expansion programme planned at the parastatal.
The "spy versus spy" allegations are contained in papers filed last month in the Cape Town Labour Court by former senior PetroSA investigator Lerato Lesole, who is suing the parastatal for unfair dismissal and demanding immediate reinstatement.
Lesole was investigating PetroSA's chief executive, Sipho Mkhize, and the chief financial officer, Nkosemntu Nika, before he got the chop.
His probe was sparked by a claim by an internal whistle-blower in 2007 that Nika might be involved in fraudulent activities and that Mkhize was involved in tender irregularities relating to the desludging of PetroSA's Milnerton oil tanks.
Source: Mail & Guardian
At the same time, worker protests have erupted at the parastatal over the suspension of a trade union member, allegedly for leaking information to the Mail & Guardian after his emails were searched by management.
Workers allege a general witch-hunt against critics and dissenters at PetroSA. They link it to management's fears that criticism could derail a huge expansion programme planned at the parastatal.
The "spy versus spy" allegations are contained in papers filed last month in the Cape Town Labour Court by former senior PetroSA investigator Lerato Lesole, who is suing the parastatal for unfair dismissal and demanding immediate reinstatement.
Lesole was investigating PetroSA's chief executive, Sipho Mkhize, and the chief financial officer, Nkosemntu Nika, before he got the chop.
His probe was sparked by a claim by an internal whistle-blower in 2007 that Nika might be involved in fraudulent activities and that Mkhize was involved in tender irregularities relating to the desludging of PetroSA's Milnerton oil tanks.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Crime stats scam exposed
A KwaZulu-Natal police whistleblower, who was suspended without pay because, he said, he exposed fraudulent crime statistics, has had his salary reinstated.
Constable Craig Josiah approached the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg last month to set aside his suspension. He claimed he had been victimised and subjected to trumped-up charges after he exposed "fraudulent" activities in the capturing of crime statistics.
Judge Fikile Mokgohloa ordered that Josiah's salary be reinstated pending the state's filing of its papers and argument in court on Josiah's suspension.
Josiah's station commissioner, Director Hariram Badul, had discontinued his salary on March 9. This was after the Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD), acting on information provided by Josiah, raided the Mountain Rise Police Station in Pietermaritzburg and discovered 170 unregistered dockets stacked away in a room.
Source: Mail & Guardian
Constable Craig Josiah approached the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg last month to set aside his suspension. He claimed he had been victimised and subjected to trumped-up charges after he exposed "fraudulent" activities in the capturing of crime statistics.
Judge Fikile Mokgohloa ordered that Josiah's salary be reinstated pending the state's filing of its papers and argument in court on Josiah's suspension.
Josiah's station commissioner, Director Hariram Badul, had discontinued his salary on March 9. This was after the Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD), acting on information provided by Josiah, raided the Mountain Rise Police Station in Pietermaritzburg and discovered 170 unregistered dockets stacked away in a room.
Source: Mail & Guardian
'Cops Ignore Kebble Murder Accused'
Police have not yet acted on 52 extraditions, including Brett Kebble murder accused John Stratton.
Yet they seem to have made moves to extradite a nurse accused of stealing medical records of former health minister Manto Tshabala-Msimang.
Source: All Africa.com
Yet they seem to have made moves to extradite a nurse accused of stealing medical records of former health minister Manto Tshabala-Msimang.
Source: All Africa.com
Friday, July 3, 2009
Palin's resignation shocks Alaska, nation
Gov. Sarah Palin stunned Alaska and the nation Friday by abruptly announcing her resignation from office. Palin, the governor of Alaska for two and a half years, said she will step down in three weeks and hand power over to Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell. Palin made the announcement at a hastily called press conference held at her Wasilla home as the holiday weekend began. She complained about ethics complaints lodged against her, said the media isn't reporting her accomplishments, and struck conservative political themes like smaller government, resource development and national security. Her statements sparked an immediate national debate over whether this kills any chance Palin had ever winning national office, or frees her up to concentrate on national politics.
Palin, 45, said she decided first not to run for re-election next fall when her term is up, then figured in that case she'd just leave now. Palin said she didn't want to be a "lame duck," a political phrase for officeholders who have signaled they are leaving office and therefore lose clout to push their political agenda. Palin said that instead, she'll work for the Alaska's interests without the title. "Many just accept that lame duck status and they hit the road, they draw a paycheck. They kind of milk it. And I'm not going to put Alaskans through that. I promised efficiencies and effectiveness," she said. But Palin could have waited until next year to announce she wasn't running for re-election, said Valdez Republican state Rep. John Harris, who plans to run for governor now that Palin isn't. The deadline for her to decide wasn't until next June, after the next legislative session is over. Harris called her decision "strange."
Palin's explanation makes no sense, agreed state Rep. Mike Hawker, a leading critic of her. "That isn't a reason. Seated governors just don't resign in the last year of their term no matter how successful or for that matter unsuccessful they've been. Right now there are a lot more questions than answers. And until the governor chooses to reveal more of her motive here, it's just one of those questions we will never know the answer to," said Hawker, a Republican from Anchorage. Hawker noted that Palin's decision to quit "gives her unfettered ability to pursue her economic interests, whether it be a book deal or speeches, that type of thing, without being cluttered by state ethics law."
Source: Anchorage Daily News
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Ramphele warns of chaos
Director of the World Bank and convenor of the so-called Dinokeng group, Mamphela Ramphele, has said the first of various ticking time bombs in South Africa have begun to explode. She was a guest speaker in Pretoria at a future conference of the Solidarity union on Tuesday.
Dinokeng is a diverse group of 35 esteemed South Africans who met last year with the aim of trying to determine how the country could look by 2020. The group says South Africa finds itself at a crossroads of three scenarios: walk apart, walk behind or walk together.
Ramphele said the government was responsible for the various time bombs, because it failed on education, health, crime, poverty and unemployment. "We are seeing increasing agitation because people are tired of hearing the empty promises municipalities make. This is one of the time bombs which is set to explode." She said South Africans should start reclaiming their ownership, "since the country does, after all, belong to us. It will require a mind shift in perspective and a step out of our comfort zones. The striking doctors are doing this now and this is another time bomb starting to explode. The strike is causing utter chaos, but it is necessary in order for government to get the message.
According to Ramphele, the strike will force the government to contemplate the health sector, "which has become a gravy train going nowhere". She said it was of utmost importance that citizens and leaders from all sectors become involved and start demanding better service delivery. Ramphele said the onus was on South Africans to choose the walk-together scenario.
The Dinokeng group sketches South Africa in a walking alone scenario by 2018 up to 2020, as a country where the separation between the government and citizens increases, budgeted deficits increase, service delivery deteriorates day by day, and "gangs, self-appointed mayors and taxi organisations reign in local areas".
Source: News 24
Dinokeng is a diverse group of 35 esteemed South Africans who met last year with the aim of trying to determine how the country could look by 2020. The group says South Africa finds itself at a crossroads of three scenarios: walk apart, walk behind or walk together.
Ramphele said the government was responsible for the various time bombs, because it failed on education, health, crime, poverty and unemployment. "We are seeing increasing agitation because people are tired of hearing the empty promises municipalities make. This is one of the time bombs which is set to explode." She said South Africans should start reclaiming their ownership, "since the country does, after all, belong to us. It will require a mind shift in perspective and a step out of our comfort zones. The striking doctors are doing this now and this is another time bomb starting to explode. The strike is causing utter chaos, but it is necessary in order for government to get the message.
According to Ramphele, the strike will force the government to contemplate the health sector, "which has become a gravy train going nowhere". She said it was of utmost importance that citizens and leaders from all sectors become involved and start demanding better service delivery. Ramphele said the onus was on South Africans to choose the walk-together scenario.
The Dinokeng group sketches South Africa in a walking alone scenario by 2018 up to 2020, as a country where the separation between the government and citizens increases, budgeted deficits increase, service delivery deteriorates day by day, and "gangs, self-appointed mayors and taxi organisations reign in local areas".
Source: News 24
SA healthcare model “primitive” — Minister
South Africa's model of healthcare financing is "primitive" and will be abandoned, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi said on Tuesday.
"The present system of healthcare financing can no longer be allowed to go on, because it is simply unsustainable," Motsoaledi said during his budget vote speech in Parliament.
He said of the 8,5% of the gross domestic product (GDP) that was spent on healthcare, only 3,5% of the GDP catered for 84% of the population's healthcare. The other 5% catered for just 14% of the population or seven-million people.
"Nowhere in the civilised world can you find that state of affairs," he said.
"The present model of healthcare financing is just outright primitive and we are going to abandon it."
Motsoaledi said critics of the government's proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) were "hard at work" to prove that the government was going to overburden the rich.
"NHI is a system of universal health coverage where every citizen is covered by healthcare insurance, rich or poor," he said.
Source: Polity
"The present system of healthcare financing can no longer be allowed to go on, because it is simply unsustainable," Motsoaledi said during his budget vote speech in Parliament.
He said of the 8,5% of the gross domestic product (GDP) that was spent on healthcare, only 3,5% of the GDP catered for 84% of the population's healthcare. The other 5% catered for just 14% of the population or seven-million people.
"Nowhere in the civilised world can you find that state of affairs," he said.
"The present model of healthcare financing is just outright primitive and we are going to abandon it."
Motsoaledi said critics of the government's proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) were "hard at work" to prove that the government was going to overburden the rich.
"NHI is a system of universal health coverage where every citizen is covered by healthcare insurance, rich or poor," he said.
Source: Polity
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