Latest news with #RISEMzansi
IOL News
4 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
SAPS in Crisis: Makashule Gana says South Africans want to hear from President Ramaphosa
Makashule Gana, RISE Mzansi's National Assembly whip said South Africans want to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa. Image: Elmond Jiyane, GCIS RISE Mzansi has welcomed the announcement by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, which mandates the portfolio committees on police, justice and constitutional development, and the joint standing committee on intelligence to probe the serious allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. Makashule Gana, RISE Mzansi's National Assembly whip and member of the portfolio committee on police said his party has also noted comments made by the national commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, in which he stated that he is ready to brief President Cyril Ramaphosa on the scandal. Makashule Gana, RISE Mzansi's National Assembly whip and member of the portfolio committee on police. Image: Timothy Bernard/Independent Media Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'President Ramaphosa needs to act diligently and urgently to bring stability to the SAPS and the justice, peace and security cluster as a whole. One such step would be establishing a commission of inquiry headed by a retired judge to probe the serious allegations by Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi,' said Gana. He said the commission of inquiry must have clear terms of reference and timelines. 'President Ramaphosa has built a reputation as someone who takes his time to act. This cannot be one of those instances, while the country's police service is at war with itself, and the state's safety and security is in question,' said Gana. 'President Ramaphosa stated that he will deal with this matter on his return from his official international duties. Today is that day. South Africans want to hear from the president. On Sunday, KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi made damning allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, deputy national police commissioner, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya and other high-placed individuals. Mkhwanazi stirred the hornet's nest when he made the explosive revelations, stating that investigations have unearthed a crime syndicate involving underworld figures, politicians, prosecutors, judges, and senior police officers. Earlier this week, IOL reported that Ramaphosa has described the allegations made by Mkhwanazi against Mchunu as a "serious national security concern" and urged all parties involved to exercise "restraint and discipline." 'This is a matter of grave national security concern that is receiving the highest priority attention. It is vital that the integrity of the country's security services is safeguarded and that the rule of law is affirmed.' 'All parties to this matter are called upon to exercise discipline and restraint. The trading of accusations and counter-accusations threatens to undermine public confidence and sow confusion. Furthermore, these actions damage the unity and focus of the police,' he said. IOL News
IOL News
06-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
War within the SAPS and serious claims against Mchunu
President Cyril Ramaphosa and the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, to brief the nation on their knowledge of the allegations and the action that will be taken, says the writer. RISE Mzansi notes with deep concern the allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, of corruption and conniving between Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, South African Police Service (SAPS) senior management and criminal elements. These allegations cannot be left to fester. It is therefore incumbent upon President Cyril Ramaphosa and the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, to brief the nation on their knowledge of the allegations and the action that will be taken. On Friday, the Police Department tabled its Budget Vote before the National Assembly, where RISE Mzansi reminded Minister Mchunu that the SAPS budget must not protect positions; it must protect people. Moreover, South Africans want one thing: to feel safe. Therefore, the unnecessary fights within the police must stop, and that focus must be directed at keeping South Africans safe. A war within the SAPS and between different power structures shreds away at the constitutional imperative to keep South Africans safe and leaves the country at the mercy of criminals. Makashule Gana, RISE Mzansi National Assembly Caucus Whip and Member of the Portfolio Committee on Police
The Citizen
03-07-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
‘The Cat' is no more: Tributes pour in for former deputy president David Mabuza
David Mabuza, fondly known as "The Cat", has died at 64. Political leaders remember his legacy and express condolences. Tributes have started pouring in for former South African deputy president David Dabede Mabuza, who passed away on Thursday after battling ill health. The Cat, as he was known, was 64 years old when he died. As the news of Mabuza's death came out, several politicians and political parties extended their condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. Mabuza described as 'master tactician' Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi described Mabuza as a master tactician, while RISE Mzansi national leader Songezo Zibi praised him as a 'freedom fighter, seasoned politician, unionist, and operator'. 'The Cat is no more. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the Mabuza family and the ANC. Lala ngoxolo,' Zibi said. ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said that, having served South Africa in various senior roles, including as premier of Mpumalanga and ultimately as deputy president, Mabuza was a significant figure in South African political life. ALSO READ: Former SA deputy president David Mabuza has died 'His contributions and influence spanned decades and will leave a lasting mark on our country's democratic journey,' Mashaba said. 'While varying reflections on his legacy will no doubt unfold in the days to come, ActionSA simply wishes to extend compassion to his family as they begin this difficult mourning journey. We pray for their strength, peace and comfort during this time of loss.' Fiercely loyal to ANC Bosa leader Mmusi Maimane said Mabuza proudly wore his ANC colours and consistently defended his party. 'When I think about his life and his contribution, I think history will be able to judge for itself what it meant. In my interactions with him, I remember the forthrightness of our engagement going backwards and forwards on different issues,' Maimane said. He extended his condolences to the Mabuza family and prayed for peace and comfort for them. 'I wish them strength because the public bits will come and go, but when it's said and done, they need comfort,' Maimane said. [WATCH] Condolences are pouring in for former Deputy President David Mabuza, who passed away at the age of 64. SABC News' Lulama Matya brings reactions from Members of Parliament. She is joined by BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane. July 3, 2025 ALSO READ: WATCH: 'ANC will survive impact of Zuma and MK party' – Mabuza Good Party leader Patricia de Lille said it was during Mabuza's tenure as deputy president that she served alongside him. 'He was an exemplary chair of intergovernmental forums; his meetings were marked by punctuality, clarity of purpose, and firm outcomes. I personally admired his respect for time and process, and it is a discipline we can all learn from in public service,' de Lille said. ANC deeply saddened Within the ANC, Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Development Lebogang Maile said he was at a loss for words. 'You always rose to the occasion without fail, always available to volunteer for the movement – this is our greatest memory of you. May your soul rest in peace,' the MEC said. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri told SABC News that the party was deeply saddened by Mabuza's passing. 'This is the son of the people of Mpumalanga who rose from the ranks of the student movement to go on to also become one of the founding chairpersons of the South African Democratic Teachers Union when it was formed,' she said. ALSO READ: David Mabuza resigns as Member of Parliament Bhengu-Motsiri said the party is truly heartbroken and called on South Africans to offer space to the Mabuza family. [WATCH] ANC Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri says the party is deeply saddened by the death of former Deputy President of South Africa David Mabuza, who passed on today at the age of 64. — SABC News (@SABCNews) July 3, 2025 The ANCYL noted that Mabuza was known for his tactical skill and political resilience. From his early days as an educator and anti-apartheid activist to his tenure as deputy president, they said he remained committed to the people's aspirations. 'A former chairperson of the ANC in Mpumalanga and a long-time champion of unity within the movement, Cde Mabuza will be remembered for his quiet strength, his strategic discipline and his ability to navigate complex political terrains with remarkable calm,' the ANCYL said. End of a chapter The youth league said Mabuza's passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the life of the ANC and acknowledged his contribution to the democratic project and to the advancement of social-economic transformation. 'As the Youth League, we dip our revolutionary banners in honour of a leader whose commitment to the ANC and its renewal remained steadfast even in the most trying times,' the ANCYL said.
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Tributes pour in for David Mabuza, described as a dominant figure in South African politics
Former deputy president David Mabuza has died, aged 64. Image: X Tributes are pouring in for former Deputy President David Mabuza, who served as Deputy President under Cyril Ramaphosa's first term, who died on Thursday afternoon, aged 64. Mabuza was remembered as a dominant politician and a committed and humble cadre who dedicated his life to the service of the people of South Africa. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula on Thursday confirmed the news and extended his condolences to the Mabuza family. "It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we learn of the passing of the former Deputy President of the Republic and stalwart of our movement, Comrade David Dabede Mabuza," Mbalula said. He described Mabuza as a patriot, freedom fighter, and leader who served with humility and conviction. "We have lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a leader who served with humility and conviction. May his soul rest in peace, and may we honour his legacy by continuing the work of building a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous South Africa," he said. Professor Somadoda Fikeni, a former political analyst who worked with Mabuza, described him as a dominant politician who could outwit political opponents. He compared Mabuza to ANC heavyweight Matthews Phosa, who he succeeded as Mpumalanga premier. "Mabuza was a person I followed a lot when I was a political analyst. He could outwit political opponents, and I could say he was the most dominant politician I know and want to compare him to Matthews Phosa," Fikeni said. Political parties have also paid tribute to Mabuza, including the GOOD Party, RISE Mzansi, ActionSA, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT) and Build One SA. The GOOD Party leader and Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille said: 'He was an exemplary chair of intergovernmental forums, his meetings were marked by punctuality, clarity of purpose, and firm outcomes. I personally admired his respect for time and process, and it is a discipline we can all learn from in public service," Mmusi Maimane, BOSA leader remembered Mabuza as a significant figure in South African politics. "While we often found ourselves on opposing sides of policy and principle, today we pause to honour the life of a man who occupied one of the highest offices in our nation and played a significant role in its political life," Maimane said. RISE Mzansi remembered Mabuza as a freedom fighter. 'Mabuza was a freedom fighter, seasoned politician, unionist and operator. 'The Cat' is no more…We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the Mabuza family and the African National Congress.' ActionSA's Herman Mashaba said while varying reflections on his legacy will no doubt unfold in the days to come, he simply wished to extend compassion to Mabuza's family as they begin this difficult mourning journey. 'We pray for their strength, peace and comfort during this time of loss,' Mashaba said. His former friend and comrade Ace Magashule, the president of the African Congress for Transformation (ACT), said he had received the news with deep sadness and heartbreak. Mabuza's legacy is complex, with some viewing him as a power broker and others as a committed cadre. Cosatu spokesperson Matthew Parks said Mabuza was not perfect but played a major role in the growth of the country. Mabuza was born at Phola Trust, in Mpumalanga, on 25 August 1960 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of South Africa in 1989. He served as an MEC for Education in Mpumalanga from 1994 to 1998 and as a regional chairperson of the ANC during the same period.
IOL News
16-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
'We will not be silent': RISE Mzansi marks youth day with bold call to action for SA's youth
RISE Mzansi commemorates Youth Day at the Hector Pieterson Memorial, vowing to continue the fight for dignity, safety, and opportunity for young people. Image: File RISE Mzansi has vowed to continue fighting for the issues that affect South Africa's youth, drawing a direct line between the struggles of 1976 and today's challenges. Speaking at the Hector Pieterson Memorial during a wreath-laying ceremony on June 16, RISE Mzansi National Leader Songezo Zibi MP delivered a scathing indictment of the country's failure to protect and empower young people nearly five decades after the Soweto uprising. 'Today, we stand here, 49 years since Hector Pieterson, Tsietsi Mashinini, and scores more bled and lost their lives for the liberation of this country and its young people. Their fight is far from complete, and the scars of that era still remain,' said Zibi. He said that while legislation like the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act exists, the current school environment remains hostile and dangerous. 'In the last year, there were 42 cases of rape; 96 cases of attempted murder; 1,214 cases of assault GBH; and 376 cases of rape at places of learning,' he stated. Zibi said RISE Mzansi had formally asked the Minister of Basic Education to deliver an Executive Statement in Parliament on June 24 to account for efforts being made to improve school safety and quality. 'The case of little Cwecwe is not an isolated one,' he added, referencing recent tragic incidents involving children. Beyond education, Zibi tackled youth unemployment head-on, condemning the government for presiding over a crisis where 'the youth unemployment rate is close to 50%, or just over 62% if you include young people who have given up on looking for work.' 'These young people are you; the ones gathered here today in the name of Hector Pieterson; they are our family members,' he said, adding that the current R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant should be transformed into a R35-billion investment in youth economic development. 'Let us fund the future, rather than plastering over our current problems.' He also raised concerns about a 'silent crisis' ravaging communities: gambling addiction. 'You look left, you look right, you see gambling advertising on TV, during sports matches, on social media, and even at Home Affairs,' said Zibi, warning that the addiction among young people aged 25 to 35 is spiraling. RISE Mzansi also highlighted the growing food insecurity affecting over 20 million South Africans, particularly children. 'Twenty-three percent of children suffer from severe hunger, which results in developmental problems such as stunting,' the party said, emphasizing the role of MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa in addressing the issue through food empowerment initiatives. Turning to the upcoming National Dialogue, RISE Mzansi expressed concern about the reported R700-million budget. 'The touted R700-million price-tag appears to be excessive,' Zibi said, saying the party would use its parliamentary oversight to ensure financial accountability. The party insists that the dialogue must 'address issues of justice in all its forms' and not 'escape the issue of ethical leadership across society, political, business, civil society, and academia.' 'RISE Mzansi will continue to fight for the South Africa we all deserve, and this cannot be done without working with and listening to young people,' Zibi said. IOL News
