Latest news with #SifisoMahlangu
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
‘Millions of Assumptions': Wins SARS Fraud Case, Casts Doubt on Blue Lights Trial
Sifiso Mahlangu | Published 3 hours ago The State's long-standing corruption case against businessman Vimpie Phineas Manthata suffered a major blow this week when the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court acquitted him and his co-accused in a R19 million tax fraud case that had formed a central pillar of the broader 'blue lights' procurement scandal. The verdict, delivered by Magistrate Phindi Keswa, saw Manthata, his company Instrumentation for Traffic Law Enforcement (ITLE), and bookkeeper Judy Rose cleared of all charges related to alleged violations of the Tax Administration Act during the 2018 and 2019 tax years. Legal experts say the State's inability to prove its SARS case beyond a reasonable doubt will now put additional pressure on the corruption trial, which has already faced years of delays, procedural blunders, and accusations of political motivation. 'The prosecution could not distinguish between clerical mistakes and criminal conduct,' Magistrate Keswa ruled. 'Assumptions and administrative discrepancies cannot be used to build a case without clear evidence of intent.' The SARS prosecution had alleged that Manthata's company manipulated its tax returns to avoid paying nearly R19 million in VAT and other obligations. But defence attorney Pierre du Toit successfully argued that there was no evidence of fraud, deception, or intent to mislead SARS. 'This case is not about millions of rands, it is about millions of assumptions,' Du Toit told the court during closing arguments. 'The burden is on the State to prove guilt, and it has failed to do so in spectacular fashion.' He cited landmark cases including *State versus Prinsloo* and *State versus Futche*, which require a demonstration of clear intent to commit fraud — a standard the court agreed had not been met. SARS officials admitted under cross-examination that they had no direct proof of falsified entries, and Rose testified that all bookkeeping was done using standard software and practices. The collapse of the tax case undermines the State's broader narrative in the so-called blue lights corruption case, in which Manthata, former acting national police commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane, and ten others face charges linked to the irregular procurement of emergency police equipment worth R191 million. The State had portrayed ITLE as a central vehicle for corrupt payments, with the SARS case meant to illustrate how the company allegedly misrepresented its financial affairs. Now, with the tax fraud allegations discredited, the entire corruption case may be on shaky ground. Last week, the same court postponed the blue lights trial yet again — this time to October 2025 — after severe criticism of the State's inability to produce a coherent charge sheet more than seven years after the case was first opened. Magistrate Ashika Ramalal lambasted the prosecution's handling of the case, saying the delays and repeated administrative errors were unacceptable. Still, she ruled that the trial would go ahead next year, warning that no further postponements would be tolerated. Defence attorneys argued that their clients had suffered severe prejudice and that the continued delays were violating their right to a fair and timely trial. Accused number 9 was even left without legal representation at one point, prompting the State to suggest separating the charges — a proposal strongly opposed by the defence. The situation has been further complicated by the State's repeated failure to serve Phahlane properly and controversy over the dropping and reinstatement of charges against Manthata, a move legal observers say sets a dangerous precedent. But with one major case already dismissed and serious doubts now hanging over the remaining charges, many are questioning whether the blue lights corruption trial will ever result in a conviction, or if it is yet another politically entangled case destined to collapse under the weight of its mismanagement.
IOL News
19-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Why single out Helen Zille's age and race?
Editor Sifiso Mahlangu also seems to have forgotten that black DA (Democratic Alliance) candidates have been given the chance at the mayoral seat. One male DA mayor left for reasons of his own, while one young female medical doctor, Mpho Phalatse, was hounded out of office before she could even prove herself. Editor Sifiso Mahlangu wasted no time in announcing Helen Zille's age and race in his opinion piece, 'In the DA, upward mobility is conditional' (The Star, June 17). This smacks of ageism, racism and selectivity. He forgot to mention Zille's struggle credentials and her sterling work on the anti-apartheid newspaper, the Rand Daily Mail, under the stewardship of the late Allister Sparks. Mahlangu also seems to have forgotten that black DA (Democratic Alliance) candidates have been given the chance at the mayoral seat. One male DA mayor left for reasons of his own, while one young female medical doctor, Mpho Phalatse, was hounded out of office before she could even prove herself. After Phalatse, we saw some incompetents warming the mayoral seat, one or two with dubious credentials. Under their watch, Johannesburg, the so-called World-Class African City, has been reduced to a slum, with crime and corruption rampant. No doubt Zille is a polarizing and abrasive figure, but if she can kick butt and restore this city to its pristine place among South Africa's metros, why not give her the chance to do so? To single out Zille's age and race is mischievous. Progressive Western nations do not have a mandatory (compulsory) retirement age as we do. Some of our competent, NRF-rated academics, for example, are forced to retire at age 65 and are expected to play with their grandkids or fill in crossword puzzles! As for Helen Zille being white, I thought we were a non-racial society? Harry Sewlall Parkmore
The Star
09-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Reserve Bank probes Nthabeleng Likotsi over alleged false information in bank application
Sifiso Mahlangu | Published 5 hours ago The South African Reserve Bank has launched an investigation into Nthabeleng Likotsi and her bank, YWBN Mutual Bank, over claims that she may have provided false or misleading information during the bank's application process. The move follows a major fallout with investment firm AFRIBIZ Financial Services, and could lead to serious legal consequences for Likotsi. At the centre of the controversy is a failed R9 million deal between AFRIBIZ and YWBN. AFRIBIZ says it paid this amount for a 26% stake in the mutual bank. But after the bank allegedly failed to meet key regulatory requirements, the promised shares were not issued. Instead of receiving their 26% shareholding, AFRIBIZ claims it was offered just 2% as part of a "full and final settlement" — an offer the company immediately rejected. 'They sold us shares. We paid. Now we want what we paid for,' said a source close to AFRIBIZ's legal team. 'Returning the money is not good enough. That was never part of the agreement.' The Reserve Bank is now reviewing whether Likotsi or anyone at YWBN knowingly gave misleading or untrue information as part of their application to register the bank. Under the Mutual Banks Act, it is a criminal offence to do so. Legal experts say the situation is serious. Advocate Mandla Tshabalala, a corporate law specialist, explained: 'When someone pays for shares and you offer a refund instead, it sends the message that either the shares don't exist, or you never intended to follow through.' AFRIBIZ has made it clear they are not backing down. They insist that the R9 million payment was labelled as 'non-refundable' and was meant to secure actual shares, not a promise or future negotiation. 'This is not just about a disagreement,' said one banking insider. 'It raises questions about trust, transparency, and whether proper processes were followed from the beginning.' This is not the first time YWBN has faced trouble. In 2021, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission Tribunal ruled that YWBN had failed to follow rules under the Co-operatives Act and ordered the return of funds to investors. For Likotsi, the situation is especially damaging. Just a few years ago, she made headlines as the first black woman to start a mutual bank in South Africa — a historic and inspiring achievement. But now, that legacy is under threat. 'She started on the wrong foot,' said a senior banking executive. 'This was a chance to prove that new leadership could work in the sector. But instead, we're seeing delays and avoidance.' Likotsi, however, has defended her actions. She says YWBN made the offer to AFRIBIZ in good faith, trying to resolve issues that arose after regulatory compliance problems. She insists the door remains open for future collaboration. Still, critics argue the damage has already been done. The Reserve Bank's investigation could take time, but its outcome may have lasting effects not only on Likotsi's future but on the image of mutual banking in South Africa. With AFRIBIZ considering legal action and investor trust shaken, YWBN faces an uphill battle to restore credibility. As the inquiry continues and public scrutiny intensifies, what once seemed like a bold step forward for financial inclusion now hangs in the balance.
IOL News
29-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
India's vision as a leading voice in the Global South, and on current tensions with Pakistan
The visit of a multi-party delegation from India visiting South Africa. India has long maintained that terrorism emanating from across the border remains the most serious threat to regional peace. Image: Supplied Mr. Sifiso Mahlangu, Editor of The Star sat with the leader of the all-party parliamentary delegation from India, NCP (SCP) MP Ms Supriya Sule, to discuss the current state of relations between India and Pakistan in the context of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir and the visit of a multi-party delegation from India 1. Ms Supriya Sule, Welcome to South Africa. We saw that there was a brief skirmish between India and Pakistan, which has fortunately ended with a ceasefire. What were the reasons for this clash between the countries? The recent clash was a direct consequence of the Pahalgam terror attack, which tragically claimed 26 innocent lives. India has long maintained that terrorism emanating from across the border remains the most serious threat to regional peace. However, there has been no let-up from Pakistan, which continues to nurture terrorists to disturb peace and tranquillity in India. In the Pahalgam case, male tourists were identified by their religion and were shot dead in front of their families. The Resistance Front, a frontal organisation of Lashkar-e-Taiba based in Pakistan, claimed responsibility. However, Pakistan, as in the past, didn't take any action against them. We, therefore, launched strikes on terrorist camps and terrorist infrastructure across the border. Our response was measured and focused, and non-escalatory, aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure. We are committed to peace but reserve the right to protect our citizens. We have made it clear that Operation Sindoor is paused; it's not yet over. The fight against terrorism will continue. 2. Could you elaborate on the importance of the multi-party delegation's visit to selected countries? This delegation reflects an essential unity among India's political parties on a critical national issue— that is, zero tolerance against terrorism. By engaging with key strategic partners, we seek to build global consensus on the need for accountability, especially where states continue to shelter and actively support terror groups. This visit reinforces the idea that terrorism is not a bilateral issue — it's a global challenge demanding a coordinated international response. 3. Why were these specific countries chosen, and what role do they play in India's international counterterrorism partnerships? Seven multi-party delegations tasked with briefing various countries on Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism will visit 32 countries and the European Union. These countries—including South Africa — were selected based on three factors: their role in global politics, their historical alignment with India in multilateral forums, and their growing voice in shaping global norms, especially within the Global South. They are partners whose moral and diplomatic support is critical to isolating and pressuring states that continue to harbour terrorism. 4. Please elaborate on the inclusion of South Africa in the list of these selected key countries. What is the message? South Africa holds a special place for India. Our relationship is historic. We were active supporters of the South African people in their struggle against Apartheid. Also, as a fellow member of the Global South, South Africa's voice carries great weight. Our message here is clear: terrorism anywhere threatens peace everywhere. We look forward to strengthening our counterterrorism cooperation. 5. How does this diplomatic mission tie into India's broader response following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor? Operation Sindoor is a counter-terror initiative meant to dismantle terror infrastructure, infiltration modules, and deter future attacks. The operations have been executed under self-imposed restraint to avoid collateral damage, only terrorist targets were neutralised, avoiding civilian harm. Unfortunately, Pakistan responded by attacking India's military installations and civilians in India. We responded to their provocations in equal measure and, at their request, agreed to a pause in our military operations. The multi-party delegation abroad complements Operation Sindoor by seeking broader consensus on Terrorism. Terrorism cannot be addressed in silos — it needs global political isolation of perpetrators and structural changes in counter-terror cooperation. 6. What is the central message that the multi-party delegation will be carrying from India regarding cross-border terrorism? Our central message is that India has a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and that the world should also adopt a zero-tolerance stance. Terrorism is an existential threat, and it cannot be normalised or rationalised. There can be no double standards—no 'good' or 'bad' terrorism. India is asking the world to hold accountable those who shelter, finance, or glorify terrorism, and to support efforts for transparent international mechanisms that prevent safe havens. 7. How does India define zero tolerance against terrorism in practical terms, especially when engaging with international partners? 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 Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The visit of a multi-party delegation from India visiting South Africa. India has long maintained that terrorism emanating from across the border remains the most serious threat to regional peace. Image: Supplied UNSC resolution 1566 mentions that terrorism, under no circumstances, is justifiable by considerations of a political, philosophical, ideological, racial, ethical, religious or other similar nature. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that even a single attack is one too many, and even a single life lost is one too many. He has outlined elements of India's zero tolerance against terrorism: ●If there is a terrorist attack on India, a fitting reply will be given. ●India will not tolerate any nuclear blackmail. India will strike precisely and decisively at the terrorist hideouts developing under the cover of nuclear blackmail. ●India will not differentiate between the government sponsoring terrorism and the masterminds of terrorism. We will continue to take decisive steps to protect India and its citizens from any threat. ●India believes that terror and talks cannot go together... terror and trade cannot go together…. water and blood cannot flow together. We urge our partners to adopt a common global framework that ensures no terrorist escapes justice, no matter the geography. 8. What counter-terrorism steps, in your opinion, should be taken by Pakistan to satisfy India? Pakistan had offered a neutral investigation of the Pahalgam attack. Why didn't India agree? Honestly, it's a deflection strategy. India has seen repeated patterns of denial and diversion from Pakistan in the aftermath of attacks. Offers of 'neutral investigations' ring hollow when known terrorists operate openly on their soil. We had invited their investigators post the Pathankot terror attack, but did not hear from them afterwards, nor did they allow our investigators to visit Pakistan. What has happened to the Mumbai attack? What has happened to the Pathankot air base attack? What has happened to the Pulwama attack? India has given them dossiers and technical inputs. Even America has shared with them evidence. Everything is there, but they have not taken any action. Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, who was the main planner of the Mumbai attack, is still roaming freely. No action has been taken against Hafiz Saeed, the head of Lashkar-e-Taiba, planner and executioner of the Mumbai attack. No one should be able to believe them. For India to engage, Pakistan must immediately: • Dismantle all terror infrastructure• Hand over to India terrorists like Hafiz Saeed, Sajid Mir and Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, just like the US handed over 26/11 mastermind Tahawwur Hussain Rana. • Cease support and glorification of terror as state policy. Credibility is key. Without verifiable and sustained action, words are not enough. 9. Explain to us the significance of the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) that Pakistan has described as "an act of war"? The Indus Water Treaty was signed in 1960, and the preamble of the treaty includes two key words - goodwill and friendship.... Over the past many years, what we have seen is that we were allowing water to flow even over our own genuine developmental needs, and what was Pakistan doing - they were actively pushing terrorists into India. So, the two key words that guided the Indus Water Treaty were never honoured, and India, on the contrary, was always battling against terror attacks emanating from Pakistan. We had conveyed to Pakistan that this could not go on like this. Our Prime Minister said that blood and water cannot flow together, and that is the reason that we decided to put the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance. 10. How important is the multi-party composition of this delegation in strengthening India's message abroad? It is immensely important. When we speak abroad on an issue like terrorism, it is crucial to demonstrate that the message comes not from a single party or government, but from the collective will of India's democracy. This multi-party delegation underlines that India speaks with one voice on national security and terror. Sifiso Mahlangu, Editor of The Star sat with the leader of the all-party parliamentary delegation from India, NCP (SCP) MP Ms Supriya Sule, to discuss the current state of relations between India and Pakistan. Image: Supplied 11. How would the multi-party delegation present a unified national voice despite differing political ideologies at home? We are united by the principle that national security transcends party lines. In our deliberations, we've set aside political differences to present a coherent and consistent message. Our delegation is proof that we prioritise unity over partisanship when it comes to our country's security. 12. What specific engagements or meetings are planned for the delegation? We have scheduled meetings with the Government, Political Parties, Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, members of Parliament, civil society organisations, and think tanks. We're also engaging with the Indian diaspora, whose voice and experience are critical in shaping public opinion and mobilising the support needed against terrorism. 13. Are there any expected outcomes, such as joint statements, MOUs, or future frameworks for cooperation, that you can share? We have ongoing, robust counterterrorism cooperation. This visit is specific to project our national resolve against terror and to seek to build a global consensus. We had presented a draft in the UN on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism; we would like to see that our efforts are not constrained by narrow differences. 14. Besides security, will other issues, such as economic ties, multilateral cooperation, or diaspora concerns, be part of your discussions? While counterterrorism is the primary agenda, the delegation would utilise the opportunity to advocate for enhanced trade cooperation, deeper political and people-to-people ties, India-Africa development partnerships, and diaspora welfare. Visit of the delegation is also a chance to reinforce India's role as a trusted development partner and democratic voice in the Global South. 15. How does this effort align with India's vision as a leading voice in the Global South and a key player in multilateral institutions like the UN? India believes that real reform in global governance starts with solidarity among the Global South. By speaking together and acting together, we can influence institutions like the UN and its Security Council to adopt realistic and timely measures against terrorism. This visit is a step toward that long-term vision of a world where sovereignty cannot be misused to harbour terrorism and other forms of extremism. Multi-Party Parliamentary Delegation Ms. Supriya Sule Member of Parliament, NCP (SCPMs. Supriya Sule is from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar). She has been a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha since 2009 and has served as the Leader of the NCP (SP) in the Lok Sabha since 2014. In 2023, she was appointed Working National President of the NCP. She served as a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament representing Maharashtra from 2006 to 2009. Mr. Rajiv Pratap RudyMember of Parliament, BJPMr. Rajiv Pratap Rudy is a senior politician from Bihar and a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He is a four-time Member of Parliament and currently represents the Saran Lok Sabha constituency. He previously served as MP from Chapra in 1996 and 1999, and again in 2014. He previously served as Minister of State for Commerce and Industry and Civil Aviation, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and handled Parliamentary Affairs. Mr. Anurag Singh Thakur, Member of Parliament, BJP Mr. Anurag Singh Thakur is a senior politician from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a four-time Member of Parliament from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, currently serving in the 18th Lok Sabha after his re-election in 2024. Previously held key ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs. Mr. Thakur has also been a commissioned officer in the Territorial Army since 2016. Mr. Manish Tewari, Member of Parliament, Congress. Mr. Manish Tewari is an Indian lawyer and senior leader of the Indian National Congress, currently serving as a Member of Parliament from Chandigarh in the 18th Lok Sabha. He previously represented Anandpur Sahib in the 17th Lok Sabha and Ludhiana from 2009 to 2014. The visit of a multi-party delegation from India visiting South Africa. India has long maintained that terrorism emanating from across the border remains the most serious threat to regional peace. Image: Supplied Mr. Tewari served as the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting from 2012 to 2014. Mr. Tewari has consistently spoken on matters of internal security and counterterrorism and is the author of the book "10 Flashpoints: 20 Years - National Security Situations that Impacted India", which analyses major national security challenges, including the response to terrorism. In his book, he advocates for a more assertive stance against terrorism. Tewari has consistently emphasised the need for Pakistan to prevent its territory from being used as a base for terrorist activities. Mr. Vellamvelly Muraleedharan, Former Minister of State for External Affairs, BJP Mr. Vellamvelly Muraleedharan is a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Kerala who served as Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs from 2019 to 2024. In June 2019, he was appointed Government Deputy Chief Whip in the Rajya Sabha. Ambassador (Retd.) Syed Akbaruddin, Former Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in New York, Former Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Ambassador (Retd.) Syed Akbaruddin is best known for his tenure as India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations from January 2016 to April 2020. A distinguished diplomat who played a pivotal role in advancing India's interests on global platforms, particularly in areas of counterterrorism. Before his UN posting, Akbaruddin served as the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (2012–2015) and as India's representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna (2006–2011). Mr. Akbaruddin is widely acclaimed for his skilled diplomacy at the UN, notably his instrumental role in the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar by the UN Security Council. Following his retirement, he took up the position of Dean at the Kautilya School of Public Policy, continuing his engagement in global policy and diplomacy education. Mr. Anand Sharma, Member, Congress Working Committee. Anand Sharma is a senior Indian politician and former Union Minister for Commerce & Industry and MoS External Affairs. A veteran leader of the Indian National Congress, he served as the Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from 2014 to 2022. He began his political journey as a student leader, co-founding the NSUI and later serving as President of the Indian Youth Congress. Mr. Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, Member of Parliament, TDP Mr. Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu is a Member of Parliament representing Narasaraopet, Andhra Pradesh. He currently serves as the leader of the TDP Parliamentary Party in the 18th Lok Sabha. Beyond his legislative role, Devarayalu is the Vice Chairman of Vignan University. Mr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member of Parliament, AAP. Mr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney is an Indian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament from Punjab. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2008 for his contributions to social work and is the International President of the World Punjabi Organisation. Regarding counter-terrorism efforts, Sahney has raised concerns over international financial aid to Pakistan, cautioning against the potential misuse of such funds to support terrorism. A list of major terror attacks in India carried out by Pakistan-based terror groups: Mumbai Serial Blasts • Date: 12 March 1993 • Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra• Casualties: 257 killed, 1,400+ injured• Perpetrators: Dawood Ibrahim's D-Company with support from Pakistan • Details: A series of 12 bomb blasts across Mumbai, targeting locations such as hotels, markets, and the Massacre • Date: 20 March 2000 • Casualties: 35 Sikhs• Perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) • Details: On the eve of U.S. President Bill Clinton's visit to India, 35 Sikh villagers were killed in Chittisinghpura, Jammu and Fort Attack • Date: 22 December 2000• Casualties: 3 (2 soldiers, 1 civilian) • Perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) • Details: Two militants attacked the Red Fort in Delhi, killing 3 Indian attack on the Parliament of India • Date: 13 December 2001• Location: New Delhi • Casualties: 9 Indian nationals killed• Perpetrators: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)• Details: Five terrorists attacked the Indian Parliament Temple Attack • Date: 24 September 2002 • Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat• Casualties: 30 killed, 80+ injured• Perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) • Details: Two terrorists attacked the Akshardham Temple, resulting in a 14-hour siege and 30 Bombings • Date: 25 August 2003• Casualties: 54 (52 killed, 244 injured)• Perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)• Details: Twin car bombings occurred in Mumbai at the Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar, resulting in 54 casualties and over 244 Bombings ●Date: 29 October 2005 ●Locations: Paharganj, Sarojini Nagar market, Govindpuri ●Casualties: 62 killed, 210+ injured ●Details: Three bomb blasts occurred in crowded markets and a bus, just before the Diwali festival. Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility under the name "Islamic Inquilab Mahaz."Samjhauta Express Bombings• Date: 18 February 2007• Location: Near Panipat, Haryana• Casualties: 68 killed• Perpetrators: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) • Details: Twin bombings occurred on the Samjhauta Express train near Panipat, India, targeting passengers travelling between India and Airbase Terror Attack• Date: 2 January 2016• Location: Pathankot, Punjab• Casualties: 7 Indian nationals killed • Perpetrators: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)• Details: Gunmen attacked the Pathankot Air Force baseUri Terror Attack • Date: 18 September 2016• Location: Uri, Jammu and Kashmir• Casualties: 19 Indian nationals killed• Perpetrators: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) • Details: Four militants attacked an Indian Army brigade headquarters near Uri, resulting in the deaths of 19 Indian Attack • Date: 14 February 2019
IOL News
29-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Indian Delegation in South Africa sends strong message on terrorism: 'No more business as usual'
At a press conference held on Thursday at the Sandton Sun Hotel in Johannesburg, the delegation condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and pointed a firm finger at Pakistan. Image: Suppplied. An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation visiting South Africa this week made it clear that India will no longer remain silent in the face of terrorism. At a press conference held on Thursday at the Sandton Sun Hotel in Johannesburg, the delegation condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, and pointed a firm finger at Pakistan. 'Pakistan doesn't send delegations, it sends terrorists,' a senior member of the delegation said. 'The fact that the terrorists were draped in Pakistani flags tells us clearly where the attack came from. These attackers were celebrated in Pakistan. It's no longer business as usual. We want the world to know — especially our friends in South Africa — that we will respond to every act of terror with resolve.' Sifiso Mahlangu, Editor of The Star sat with the leader of the all-party parliamentary delegation from India, NCP (SCP) MP Ms Supriya Sule, to discuss the current state of relations between India and Pakistan. Image: Supplied 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 Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The visit comes in the aftermath of the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people lost their lives in what Indian officials have described as a cross-border terror assault. The Indian delegation's mission in South Africa is part of a global campaign to rally international support against terrorism and expose what they claim is Pakistan's continued involvement in sponsoring it. The team, led by NCP MP Supriya Sule, is part of one of seven Indian parliamentary groups touring 33 capitals around the world. The South Africa leg of their trip took place from May 27 to 29 and included meetings with key political figures, civil society, and Indian diaspora members. South African Political Support. The delegation received strong backing from South African political leaders, particularly from the African National Congress (ANC), which is part of the ruling Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who led the ANC side during a formal meeting, expressed solidarity with India and condemned terrorism in all forms. 'This meeting highlighted the importance of global unity in the fight against terrorism,' Mbalula posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). 'The ANC stands with the people of India during this difficult time.' Other ANC leaders in attendance included Deputy Ministers of International Relations Alvin Botes and Thandi Moraka, ANC Youth League Secretary-General Mntuwoxolo Ngudle, and Parliament's Trade Committee Chair Mzwandile Masina. The delegation also held discussions with South Africa's second-largest political party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), in Cape Town. DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen echoed support for India's stance against cross-border terrorism and expressed condolences to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. In Pretoria, the Indian delegation met with Kenneth Morolong, Deputy Minister in the Presidency. Morolong acknowledged the Indian concerns and promised to raise them with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Outreach to the Community Tuesday, the delegation addressed more than 350 members of the Indian diaspora and local South Africans of Indian origin in Johannesburg. They described Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism and urged the community to support India's efforts to counter global terror threats. Congress MP Manish Tewari, part of the visiting team, said during the event, 'Pakistan has been behaving like a rogue state.' The delegation also visited Constitution Hill, where both Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were once imprisoned. 'This site is a powerful reminder of our nations' shared history of resistance and resilience,' said Tewari. The group paid tribute at the Gandhi statue and viewed the Mandela-Gandhi Exhibition, inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a previous visit. A Broader Mission Besides Sule and Tewari, the delegation includes leaders from multiple Indian parties: BJP MPs Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Anurag Thakur, and V. Muraleedharan; Congress leader Anand Sharma; TDP's Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu; AAP MP Vikramjeet Singh Sahney; and former Indian ambassador Syed Akbaruddin. India's outreach comes after *Operation Sindoor* on May 7, where Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan responded with attempted attacks on Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10, which India repelled strongly. From South Africa, the Indian delegation will continue its diplomatic tour with upcoming visits to Ethiopia and Egypt.
