Latest news with #ANCYouthLeague
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
Hitman sentenced to life for murder of ANC councillor
The man has been in custody since 2022 after he was arrested . The South African Police Service (Saps) Political Task Team has registered another conviction, after a 28-year-old hitman was sentenced to life in jail for the murder of an ANC councillor in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Phathisakhe Thuthukani Ngiba appeared in the Ntuzuma Magistrate's Court on Friday, July 18, 2025, where the sentence was handed down. Murder Ngiba has been in custody since 2022 after he was arrested for the murder of ANC councillor Zakhele Shezi Khuzwayo, who was attached to the KwaMaphumulo Municipality. Khuzwayo was shot and killed on 15 September 2022 while sitting in his vehicle. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the Saps Political Task Team investigated the case, which led to the arrest of Ngiba. Ngiba was declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of section 103 (1) of Act 60 of 2000. Ngiba is also an accused in a matter where ANC candidate Councillor Siyabonga Mkhize and ANC member Mzukisi Nyanga were shot in Cator Crest. The matter is currently on trial. ALSO READ: Gauteng businessman jailed for R66 million Transnet fraud ANC Youth League leader Earlier this month, the political task team secured the conviction of former ANC Youth League leader Sindiso Magaqa's killer to 25 years imprisonment. Sibusiso Ncengwa admitted that he was part of a group of men who were paid R120 000 to kill Magaqa in 2017. His lawyers had pleaded for leniency. They argued that he had apologised to the Magaqa family and had shown remorse for his deeds. Ncengwa is also serving time in prison for other crimes unrelated to Magaqa's murder. These include armed robberies. Jail Judge Nontuthuzelo Mlaba said it was in the best interests of society for Ncengwa to be imprisoned. 'Your conduct in agreeing to take the life of a person demonstrates a clear disregard for human life. The right to life is currently one that you enjoy, but one that you took away from the deceased and for selfish reasons,' Mlaba said 'The deceased had a family. He had young children who will forever be denied the privilege of having a present father. 'You did not seem to have considered all the above when you decided to arm yourself, attack and kill the victim in this matter,' Mlaba said. Political killings Mathe said since July 2018, more than 130 accused were sentenced for various crimes linked to murders and attacks of councillors, which were proven to be politically related. 'This number includes hitmen and hit orderers,' Mathe said. NOW READ: 'David vs Goliath': Meta agrees to hand over child porn channel creator information
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
R10k just to show up: Fear of ‘Nkabane 2.0' as ANC Youth League leaders get hospital board positions
From 'tutor' to Gauteng hospitals board member, seemingly only on political connections. Fresh concerns of cronyism have rocked the Gauteng health sector after the reported appointment of several ANC Youth League (ANCYL) leaders to hospital boards in the province. As hospitals battle overcrowding, understaffing, corruption, low morale, and fierce battles over who should get healthcare, those tasked with managing the crisis were allegedly hired not for their expertise or experience but because of party connections. An unnamed ANCYL member told The Sunday Times that 'comrades were encouraged to apply', with the party promising to 'lobby' for them. Those appointed include Gauteng youth league deputy secretary Ziyanda Ncuru, deputy chair Jennifer Latifi, and Tshwane regional secretary Onkgopotse Thompson-Peete. PEC members Masabata Ramollo, Thabo Matome Twayise, Ashley Mabasa and Vuyisile Plaatjie were also listed, as was ANCYL member Khumo Thandeka. Paid for their expertise Some of those appointed held accounting and transport management qualifications, while others' only listed qualifications were as a 'tutor'. They will reportly receiving around R10 000 for each meeting they attend. Nkabane 2.0 A senior provincial government official said it was like 'Nkabane 2.0″, in reference to the saga around higher education minister Nobuhle Nkabane's appointment of the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) board. The minister appointed several ANC-linked officials to the board, including minerals minister Gwede Mantashe's son, and several other fellow party associates. She withdrew the appointments, but not before digging in her heels and appearing to mislead Parliament. She told MPs that the selections were made by an 'independent' panel chaired by Advocate Terry Motau, who later denied any involvement in the process. Higher Education Chief Director for Seta Coordination, Mabuza Ngubane, was also listed on the panel but told Parliament on Friday that he had not accepted the appointment, attended any panel meetings or screened any candidates. The rest of the panel included officials from the Department of Higher Education, including Nkabane's chief of staff, Nelisiwe Semane, and advisor Asisipho Solani. Nkabane remains in office despite significant pressure on President Cyril Ramaphosa to suspend or fire here. The DA has laid a criminal complaint against the minister and also reported her to both the Public Protector and Parliament's Ethics Committee. Additional reporting by Molefe Seeletsa
IOL News
5 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Mandela's legacy: SA in dire need of decisive, principled leadership
Then ANC President Nelson Mandela (centre) flanked by Cyril Ramaphosa (left) and Jacob Zuma at the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) on December 20,1991 in Johannesburg. Mandela's life remains a formidable example. His leadership was principled, resolute, and intolerant of external dictates, internal inefficiency and ill-discipline, says the writer. Image: AFP Reneva Fourie Today, 18 July, we celebrate Mandela Day. The occasion requires that we reflect on the qualities that defined former President Nelson Mandela and consider how they can be applied to South Africa's current woes. As society faces socio-economic challenges, institutional decay and an increasing culture of individualism, Mandela's legacy of decisive leadership stands in stark contrast to the erosion of authority that dominates today's political landscape. No country develops by chance. Effective leadership is crucial for fostering economic resilience and driving progress, particularly in the face of global challenges. China, for instance, emerged as an international economic powerhouse after implementing transformative reforms from the late 1970s. By the end of 2020, the country had successfully achieved its objective of lifting more than 850 million people out of absolute poverty. This metamorphosis was propelled by leaders who understood that effective governance should prioritise the needs of the people and must be supported by integrated, strategic, long-term planning. Nelson Mandela was such a transformational leader. In the ANC Youth League, he agitated for a mass-based movement. He was instrumental in the founding of uMkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC's armed wing. He turned down Botha's offer to be released if he agreed to renounce violence. After he was released from prison in 1990, he convinced the ANC to make difficult compromises during the negotiations to ensure peace and a better future. He did not put up with any nonsense from FW De Klerk, as shown in his famous temper speech. He used his strong leadership skills to help calm a country that was close to civil war after Chris Hani was assassinated. His presidency was marked by a commitment to improving the lives of South Africans. His administration delivered water, electricity, public housing and affordable healthcare on a scale that drew admiration from around the world. He saw governance as a tool to serve the people, especially the poor and marginalised. Mandela was a voice for global justice. He continued to oppose poverty, inequality and conflict with unwavering determination and remained a staunch supporter of liberation movements worldwide. He boldly defended the people of Palestine and defied US threats by hosting leaders like Castro and Gaddafi. His belief in Pan-African unity never faded. Leadership is too often viewed in terms of political control, economic influence, or the visibility of social movements. Yet, at its core, leadership is a responsibility that must be shared. Mandela's legacy did not arise in a vacuum. 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 ✕ He was part of a generation of exceptional and selfless cadres. Before 1990, the activists and leaders of the ANC-led alliance and the broader anti-apartheid movement operated with a coherence and discipline that is increasingly hard to find today. Their commitment was forged in sacrifice. Many faced detention, torture, imprisonment, life on the run, exile and the supreme sacrifice. Their common aim was to build a just and democratic South Africa in honour of their efforts and the lives lost during the liberation struggle. When leadership spoke, it was listened to. Recalling a sitting president for personal ambition was unheard of. And the recent attempts at external interference in domestic matters would never have been welcomed, let alone encouraged. Today, the country needs that same discipline and cohesion. Those who hold power in the state must rise to the occasion. Ministers must be effective and accountable. The President should remove those tainted by scandal. The Minister of Public Administration must act quickly to improve the efficiency of the public sector. The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs must ensure that municipalities deliver services. National Treasury should stop deferring to international financial institutions and begin asserting national priorities. The security cluster requires a total institutional overhaul to restore public confidence. Parliament must act boldly to oversee the executive and hold it accountable. The judiciary must reaffirm its commitment to impartiality and the pursuit of effective justice. Poor governance is not solely due to corrupt or ineffective public leaders. It also reflects a breakdown in our sense of mutual ownership. A thriving democracy requires participation from those who govern and those who are governed. Although the state bears responsibility, ultimate power resides with the people. It was ordinary citizens, as inspired – among others – by the ANC-led alliance, who made the dream of freedom from apartheid a reality. That same commitment to civic responsibility must now be exercised to ensure that government remains accountable and effective. We must dismiss the notion that leadership is reserved for politicians or elites. Genuine leadership exists within communities, workplaces, homes, and our everyday interactions. This is why Mandela Day and initiatives like the 67 minutes of community service remain so important. These gestures remind us of our shared humanity and collective responsibility, allowing us to connect across divides and channel our discontent into action. But volunteering once a year is not enough. The spirit of Mandela demands sustained civic engagement, critical vigilance, and an unwavering insistence on integrity at every level of government. Effective governance is a partnership. It is not a battleground for self-interest but a space for cooperation and joint leadership. Decisions must reflect the voices and needs of all, not just the few. This will enhance state legitimacy and cultivate a stronger, more resilient society. Mandela's life remains a formidable example. He did not seek power for its own sake. He used it to uplift others. He led by listening, acting, and uniting. His leadership was principled, resolute, and intolerant of external dictates, internal inefficiency and ill-discipline. On this Mandela Day, let us honour his legacy not only with remembrance but with resolve. Let us demand accountability and competence, and a reward principle. Let us insist that those who lead us do so in the service of all. Because in the end, as Mandela himself taught us, what counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is about what difference we have made to the lives of others. * Dr Reneva Fourie is a policy analyst specialising in governance, development and security. ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL, Independent Media or The African.
IOL News
09-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
How ANC justified Freedom Charter propaganda
A copy of the Freedom Charter Image: 1860 Heritage Centre THEMBILE NDABENI IT IS absurd that people commemorate or celebrate distorted events out of being misinformed. Generations need to be salvaged from this scourge of deception! Records must be put straight! The Freedom Charter was controversial from the outset: Firstly, the ANC did not meet alone and never consulted its 'constituency' broadly before deciding to work with other formations. Secondly, the way the Freedom Charter was drafted; in fact who drafted it? It is clear that the Communists, especially Lionel 'Rusty' Bernstein, dominated the drafting. This was why Jordan Ngubane, an African politician, journalist, former ANC Youth League founder and a highest-ranking African in the Liberal Party said the Charter's ultimate aim was 'to condition the African people to accept communism via the back door'. It was not only communism that was being accepted through the back door, but non-racialism as well. Stephen Ellis puts it: "the Freedom Charter – meant a non-racialism derived ultimately from the SACP…' Though communist ideas dominated the Freedom Charter, the irony is that the Africanists also questioned the class background of these white people who dictated its drafting. The argument is that they were a petty-bourgeoisie class, not working class. The Africanists also criticised the involvement of Indians, saying they and the Whites would undermine the self-reliance of Africans. Yet Ben Turok refers to them as 'whites of a different stamp'. Perhaps they were different because they dictated the terms for Africans in their own cause. Turok continues '… communists and committed democrats, who were active within the liberation movement. Can the charge of diluting the struggle be made about them?' 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 This is not about wrongness or rightness of those communist ideas but proving facts, Bernstein/communist domination. Even on the claim of delegates who represented the 'four congresses', the document was already drafted and brought forward afterwards. This is why the other Africanists broke away out of discontent! Dale McKinley writes: 'Despite the impressive number of people who participated in the Charter's adoption at Kliptown in June 1955, the process by which the document was drawn and adopted involved a select Alliance membership.' The Freedom Charter was dictated, and the ANC's propaganda followed to justify it, but contradictions which involved conflict in facts/claims still remain. Writers like Rob Davies, Dan O' Meara and Sipho Dlamini argue that the Freedom Charter was a result of the Defiance Campaign. According to them, the Defiance Campaign demonstrated a need for a popular programme that would go beyond the '1949 Programme of Action'. Even the wild claim that the Defiance Campaign is the translation into action of the 1949 Programme of Action is just a justification for detracting from the latter by the 'diluted ANC'. How can they say beyond the 1949 Programme, which was not even implemented; but was replaced instead? Therefore, the Defiance Campaign and the Freedom Charter are connected. Many people, including writers just write/say the Freedom Charter resulted from a gathering of people in Kliptown in 1955. When people say it, especially the advocates/adherents/converts/loyalists of the ANC, they look like Hitler's indoctrinates. Those people who dug deeper (even though some divert along the way) will tell you that the idea started with Prof. ZK Matthews, leader of the ANC at the Cape. It is later on where the issue of the Freedom Charter started to move towards the boiling point. People like Eli Weinberg have the audacity of saying, after the Freedom Charter was made a final draft, 'Eventually, all these demands were collated and formulated in the Freedom Charter'. But R. W Johnson who writes that: 'The congress discussed and adopted the Freedom Charter – which was indeed drafted by white communists, though the pretence had to be gone through that it was based on black suggestions'. Bernstein was the main man, as David Welsh and J.E Spence present it: 'The actual drafting was entrusted to Rusty Bernstein, a former member of the Communist Party'. Dr Motsoko Pheko refers to it as the 'Freedom Cheaters'. It suits cheaters, like Suttner, Cronin and their 'dad', Rusty Bernstein. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, drafted by white communists, with Bernstein in the forefront, in the period 1953-1955. He should have felt good for being a star/author for the African people by drafting them 'a policy' which serves like a constitution. The Freedom Charter, a white communist diktat camouflaged as a 'people drafted' document, is responsible for the split in the ANC in the period 1958-1959. It caused a division in the 'African family yet is celebrated as a revolutionary and a unitary document!' In any form of colonialism, the natives are the ones most oppressed. Therefore nobody can tell them what or how to engage against their oppression. Michael Harmel, one of the earliest communist activists in a way verifies this. 'From the outset the African National Congress asserted the right of the African people as the indigenous owners of the country, entitled to determine its direction and destiny.'
The South African
07-07-2025
- The South African
Former ANCYL secretary-general's killer gets hefty prison sentence
The Pietermaritzburg High Court on Friday, 5 July 2025, sentenced 37-year-old Sibusiso Ncengwa to an effective 25 years in prison for the murder of former ANC Youth League Secretary General Sindiso Magaqa and several related crimes. Ncengwa pleaded guilty under Section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act on 6 June 2025, admitting to shooting Magaqa in uMzimkhulu on 13 July 2017. He also confessed to attempting to kill Jabulile Msiya, Nonsikelelo Mafa, and Nceba Mazongolo, damaging vehicles and unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition. In his admissions, Ncengwa outlined the events leading to Magaqa's murder and named his co-accused Sbonelo Myeza, Mlungisi Ncalane and Mbulelo Mpofana. He also revealed the names of the alleged masterminds who planned the assassination. During sentencing, Advocate Elvis Gcweka presented victim impact statements from Magaqa's brother and a KwaZulu-Natal ANC member. Magaqa's brother described him as a community leader who had established a soccer team for local youth and was his family's breadwinner. The ANC statement described Magaqa's death as a loss to the organisation. The court sentenced Ncengwa to 25 years for conspiracy to commit murder and another 25 years for murder. He also received five years' imprisonment for each of the three counts of attempted murder. Three years for each of the three counts of malicious injury to property. For the firearm-related offences, the court sentenced him to five years for unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm. Another five years for unlawful possession of a firearm, and one year for unlawful possession of ammunition. The court ordered that these sentences run concurrently, resulting in an effective prison term of 25 years. KwaZulu-Natal Director of Public Prosecutions Adv Elaine Harrison welcomed the conviction and praised law enforcement partners, especially the Political Killings Task Team. 'We hope sentences like this deter like-minded individuals,' she said. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
