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IOL News
3 days ago
- 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
3 days ago
- 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.
The Star
25-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
AFRIBIZ takes on Nthabeleng Likotsi's YWBN over collapsed R9 million share deal
Sifiso Mahlangu | Published 30 minutes ago What was set to be the first black and female-owned bank is now facing a bleak future. AFRIBIZ Financial Services is taking legal action against YWBN Co-Operative Financial Institution and its founder, Nthabeleng Likotsi, after a failed R9 million share deal in the controversial YWBN Mutual Bank. AFRIBIZ says it is determined to see Likotsi do the right thing. The dispute began when AFRIBIZ paid R9 million to buy a 26% stake in YWBN Mutual Bank. However, the deal collapsed after YWBN allegedly failed to submit important compliance documents required by the Prudential Authority, South Africa's financial regulator. Without these documents, the regulator could not approve the issuing of shares, putting the entire deal on has accused YWBN of poor management and legal irregularities. The company says it spent significant time and money preparing for the investment and still wants to own the 26% stake it was promised. In a letter to AFRIBIZ, YWBN admitted it could not meet the compliance requirements and offered to return the R9 million, even though the payment was originally marked as 'non-refundable.' Still, this offer did not settle the matter. Instead, YWBN suggested offering just 2% of shares in full and final settlement, which AFRIBIZ rejected outright.'Our client remains committed to acquiring the full 26% shareholding,' AFRIBIZ's lawyers said in a statement following a meeting in April 2024. This clash comes as YWBN faces growing criticism about its operations, governance, and leadership. Likotsi, once praised as South Africa's first woman to start a mutual bank, is now under scrutiny for a lack of transparency and mismanagement. Back in 2021, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) Tribunal ordered YWBN to return money to investors. It ruled that the bank had not followed legal rules under the Co-operatives Act, had poor financial recordkeeping, and had collected questionable 'non-refundable' membership fees from investors. More recently, investors have raised concerns about YWBN relying on celebrity endorsements instead of proving its financial credibility. Legal experts say this case highlights risks in investing in new or unregulated financial institutions. Advocate Mandla Tshabalala, a corporate law specialist, said, 'For any bank or financial institution, compliance and transparency are not optional — they're essential. Regulators must stay alert.' As the legal battle heats up, AFRIBIZ is demanding that YWBN follow through on the original share agreement. Despite YWBN's offer to return the R9 million, AFRIBIZ says it will continue legal action until the full deal is honoured. This high-profile case has put the spotlight on South Africa's growing but fragile alternative banking sector. With trust in YWBN fading, many are now wondering if the dream of a women-led mutual bank can survive the fallout. Asked about the previous issues with the CIPC Tribunal and now the legal dispute with AFRIBIZ, Likotsi said the YWBN received its clearance certificate from the CIPC, which indicates that we are compliant with all governance requirements. 'AfriBIZ Financial Services had a business interest in YWBN, when they couldn't meet the minimum basic compliance requirements, we explored different ways they could participate, however, we could not reach an agreement. YWBN remains open and committed to engaging AfriBIZ in future business endeavours'
The Star
12-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Lesufi set to fire senior officials as Ethics Report Exposes misconduct and lavish lifestyles
Sifiso Mahlangu | Published 6 hours ago Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is preparing to dismiss several senior officials following revelations of widespread misconduct and financial irregularities within the provincial administration. The move comes after a damning report by the Gauteng Ethics Advisory Council exposed how high-ranking government figures were living well beyond their means and engaging in illegal business dealings with the state. According to sources close to the matter, the axe is expected to fall as early as next week on a number of heads of department (HODs) and chief executives. The lifestyle audits, commissioned amid growing concern over senior officials driving luxury vehicles and maintaining opulent lifestyles inconsistent with their official salaries, confirmed deep-rooted ethical breaches. The ethics report found that out of 19 senior managers audited, more than a third either failed outright or were marked as high-risk. The situation has raised serious questions about the integrity of provincial leadership and the enforcement of governance standards. The report also revealed that 152 public servants were actively doing business with the government — a direct violation of the Public Administration Management Act, which prohibits such conduct. The education department emerged as the most problematic, with 124 employees flagged for transacting with the state. Beyond ethics violations, Lesufi is reportedly frustrated with poor departmental performance. Several departments underspent their allocated budgets, leading to the return of R1.8 billion to the National Treasury — a significant setback for service delivery in a province grappling with infrastructure and social challenges. Insiders say this has compounded pressure on the premier to take decisive action.' There's a pattern of underperformance, overspending on office leases, and now clear evidence of unethical conduct,' said a senior government source. 'Lesufi is left with no choice but to act.' The final straw appears to be a combination of electoral backlash and internal ANC pressure. The party's support in Gauteng plummeted from 50% in 2019 to 34% in the 2024 elections, forcing it into a coalition government. This political blow has prompted calls from within the ANC, particularly the Youth League, to urgently reform the provincial administration and remove officials hindering progress, especially in departments tasked with youth development and bursaries. 'You can't lose public support like that and continue with business as usual,' said a source close to the premier. 'Some of these officials have become complacent and detached from the urgency needed to fix the province.' Lesufi has credited the independent ethics council with driving efforts to clean up government, praising their role in initiating lifestyle audits and advising on procurement and local governance reforms. While some of the flagged transactions in the education sector were minor, such as teachers moonlighting during marking or selling small goods to schools, Lesufi said all irregularities must be scrutinised. The report will be formally tabled at the next executive council meeting, and Lesufi's administration has committed to respond within 14 days.
IOL News
01-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Zuma was right, send young people to the military
Former President Jacob Zuma, often a polarising figure, may have been right about one thing: we need national service, and we need it now, says the writer. Image: File picture Sifiso Mahlangu, Editor of The Star Image: Supplied By any rational measure, South Africa is teetering on the edge of internal collapse. Crime has become as routine as sunrise. Murders occur at a pace that would shock even war zones, and law enforcement is either overwhelmed, outgunned, or just outright absent. As citizens lock their gates tighter and private security companies multiply, the unspoken reality is sinking in: the state has failed to keep its people safe. The statistics speak for themselves. According to the South African Police Service's reports, violent crimes — including rape and murder—have spiked alarmingly. The daily body count doesn't merely reflect societal decay; it screams it. And if we don't take radical steps to address the root causes of this chaos, the consequences will be catastrophic. Former President Jacob Zuma, often a polarising figure, may have been right about one thing: we need national service, and we need it now. The idea of sending young South Africans, particularly men between 18 and 30, into military service may seem harsh or outdated to some. But consider this: what's more dangerous? A young man being trained, disciplined, educated, and empowered in the military — or that same young man, jobless, angry, and abandoned, roaming the streets with nothing to lose? Right now, thousands of South African youth are living in a pressure cooker. No jobs. No skills, says the writer. Image: Ron Lach/Pexels 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 Right now, thousands of South African youth are living in a pressure cooker. No jobs. No skills. No land. No purpose. And most dangerously, no hope. What we are witnessing is not just unemployment; it's a national security crisis. Idle hands are already becoming tools of crime syndicates, drug lords, and radical elements. The evidence is everywhere — in the hijacked buildings of Johannesburg, in the booming illegal drug trade, in the growing number of gang-related murders. We are causing instability with our inaction. There's a growing sense that something explosive is coming. Sandton City, the shining monument to South Africa's upper crust, may well be the site of the next insurrection. And no, the underpaid, overworked, and undertrained SAPS won't stop it. Nor will the unregulated private security industry, whose loyalty lies with whoever signs the check, not the Constitution. When the dam breaks, it won't matter how high Cyril Ramaphosa's walls are in Hyde Park. Those walls might protect him, for now. But history shows us that when the masses rise, no fortress stands forever. We must act preemptively and decisively. National service is not just about marching drills and rifles. It can — and should — be a route to skills development, patriotism, and nation-building. Imagine a military that trains electricians, mechanics, medics, engineers, and IT technicians. Imagine if, instead of loitering in townships or becoming foot soldiers for crime, our youth were building bridges, fixing water infrastructure, and defending the country's cyber borders. South African youth are more focused on becoming TikTok influencers than on pursuing careers such as mechanical engineering to address our country's energy issues, says the writer. Image: Kon Karampelas/Pixabay Contrast this with the growing obsession among South African youth with becoming TikTok influencers. While there's nothing inherently wrong with wanting a digital career, it speaks volumes about our societal values when 'content creation' is more aspirational than civil engineering. And yet, those same influencers are powerless when Eskom strikes again. What can a ring light do when there's no power to turn it on? What's the point of going viral if you're living in a country on the verge of collapse? The global geopolitical situation is also shifting rapidly. With increasing instability in international trade routes, rising political polarisation across continents, and the return of Cold War dynamics, South Africa will not be spared. We cannot depend on the global North to solve our internal problems. No IMF bailout or World Bank grant will rebuild a society that rots from within. If we don't take the initiative to fortify ourselves — economically, socially, and militarily — we will be trampled by the coming storms. Supporting engineering and hard sciences should be a national priority. These are the fields that build nations. Roads, power plants, water treatment facilities, communication networks—none of these are built on viral dances or trending audio clips. If we reallocated even a fraction of the energy we pour into celebrity culture toward science, technology, and education, we might begin to halt our national slide. It's easy to scoff at the idea of conscription in 2025, to dismiss it as outdated or militaristic. But ask yourself this: Is it more dystopian to have a generation building a disciplined, skilled society under structured national service, or to have them lost in crime-infested ghettos, drifting between prison cells and drug dens? If you believe the latter is better, you are either delusional or comfortably removed from the realities most South Africans face. Zuma, for all his political sins, saw a truth that many current leaders refuse to confront: South Africa is in danger, and soft policies will not save us. Ramaphosa's administration must stop tinkering at the edges and start making bold, decisive moves. That means declaring internal crime and youth unemployment a national emergency. That means national service — military or civil—for all school leavers. That means pivoting funding away from vanity projects and into infrastructure, education, and engineering. And yes, that means telling the hard truth to a generation raised on dopamine hits and ring lights: TikTok won't save you from a crumbling nation. South Africa is on a knife's edge, and the clock is ticking. Either we act with urgency, or we will find ourselves living in a failed state, ruled by fear, policed by thugs, and abandoned by hope. The choice is ours — for now. * Sifiso Mahlangu is the editor of The Star
