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The Herald
10 hours ago
- Politics
- The Herald
Protection of whistle-blowers must be a priority in SA
After the media briefing by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on July 6 there were people who raised issues of protocol, but the reality is that whistle-blowing becomes a worthwhile possibility when established protocols for reporting wrongdoing within the institution collapse or when the institution itself is conflicted in the delinquency. It assists as a critical instrument for promoting accountability and transparency when internal reporting mechanisms are laughable or unproductive. As correctly captured already in 1998, then-president Thabo Mbeki described the extent of corruption in South Africa as moral mayhem perpetrated by deviants. Mbeki further characterised these individuals as the proponents of antinomian culture and implored the public to rebel against them (Mkhabela 2020). He suggested that the rebellion must be public because the conspiracy of individuals in wrongdoing is a deviant behaviour contrary to the common good and is usually cloaked in silence. The battle will be taken to the corrupt (Mkhabela 2020). It's essential say that some of what was said by Mkhwanazi in the media conference made me reflect on how Mbeki was concerned about risks to state security that could surface from the potential clash between the Scorpions, the NPA and the SAPS, and the subsequent establishment of the Ginwala Commission. Mkhwanazi said in the briefing that on June 25 2025, the project co-ordinator of the political killings task team was arrested by the IDAC (Investigating Directorate Against Corruption). This is the IDAC that has brought a glimmer of hope and I would have thought that it would emulate the high level of investigations comparable to the Scorpions with an extraordinary conviction rate. Therefore, the mentioning of the IDAC in the media conference made you ponder whether there is some sympathetic pushback that is meant to benefit the recently arrested crime intelligence officers. But I took solace in the fact that Mkhwanazi has been in the forefront of fighting crime in KwaZulu-Natal. The contemplation also brought to mind the drama that characterised the case against former national police commissioner Jackie Selebi, where minister (Siyabonga) Cwele brought an application to stop ex-national intelligence co-ordinating committee head Barry Gilder testifying against Selebi. In turning down the appeal, judge (Meyer) Joffe said state security could not be compromised more than it had already been. In this second coming of what the country once experienced, the population must not allow itself to be influenced by pretenders and constitutional delinquents such as former president Jacob Zuma and his lieutenants in the MK party. We cannot now develop amnesia and forget that it was Zuma who led the charge on rewriting the report of the public protector on the SABC and the report titled 'When Government and Ethics Fail' in defence of the less-qualified Hlaudi Motsoeneng. In the second report of the public protector, titled 'Secured in Comfort', instead of acting in accordance with corrective action, the executive under Zuma found, among other idiosyncrasies, that the swimming pool constructed at Nkandla was in fact a 'fire pool', therefore qualifying as a security feature, with Nhlanhla Nene and Thulas Nxesi conspiring. The Nkandla scandal directly uncovered Zuma's betrayal of the people of SA and the constitution. The National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council is correct to sound alarm bells in the country still emerging from the grip of state capture, and the urgency to protect whistle-blowers has never been greater. SA is at a perilous juncture in strengthening its anti-corruption architecture, with a specific focus on protecting whistle-blowers. State capture symbolises that the state itself can be branded as mainly serving the interests of focus groups with criminal elements fitted in. Whistle-blowers have been essential in exposing corruption scandals in SA, saving the country millions. Yet many continue to suffer dire consequences, including harassment, job loss and serious financial ramifications. In keeping with the sentiments in the Mkhwanazi briefing where he says there can never be peace between a criminal and a cop, we must not tolerate disgraced former police colonels such as Vincent Mdunge, who traded their blue overalls for orange ones. The government functionaries must never find themselves going all out in dishonouring the whistle-blower and honouring the corrupt and the powerful. I agree with the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council that we need clear legislative reforms and an effective framework for whistle-blower protection. The new whistle-blower protection bill must include the criminalisation of retaliation against whistle-blowers. When the protocol fails, we cannot avoid the public whistle-blowing method. As Mbeki said, the rebellion must be public because the collusion of individuals in wrongdoing is deviant behaviour. A mechanism must be created for the president to account in parliament about the number of protected disclosure submissions to his office and their current status, inclusive of departments, without mentioning names of the whistle-blowers. The public confidence must be restored and those who are reporting wrongdoing must be given attention. SA constructed a constitution that is distinct and far-reaching in its provisions. Among other things, it created a collection of constitutionally protected institutions to strengthen democracy and these institutions are obligated to account to parliament. The country cannot expect a constitutional delinquent such as Zuma to appreciate the importance of this constitution as the Constitutional Court pronounced on many occasions about his conduct. In his next trip to the Union Buildings, convicted criminal Mdunge must take wise counselling from Mkhwanazi that there will never be peace between the criminal and the cop. Dr Tony Duba (MPL), chair of Committees and ECPL, is writing in his personal capacity The Herald
Associated Press
a day ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Hands-On Learning, Real-World Impact: Covia and Pontotoc Tech Center
July 24, 2025 /3BL/ - Covia's Roff Plant was recently named the Pontotoc Technology Center (PTC) Partner in Progress for 2025, recognizing its outstanding commitment to workforce development and hands-on education in south-central Oklahoma. For years, Covia has collaborated with PTC to deliver a wide range of technical and safety training programs to PTC students, including MSHA safety certification, welding, drone operation, and electrical systems training. These initiatives have not only enhanced employee skills but also provided invaluable real-world experience for PTC students. Welding students contributed directly to Covia's mining operations by fabricating on-site parts, and Lineworker Academy students from PTC gained practical experience by safely dismantling over 1,000 feet of decommissioned high-voltage lines. This effort required strict adherence to multiple safety protocols. Covia is proud to be a good neighbor to Roff and its surrounding communities, actively investing in initiatives that foster long-term growth and opportunity. Our commitment to community engagement goes beyond business—it's about building meaningful relationships, supporting local programs, and contributing to a vibrant, resilient economy. Through our ongoing partnership with local educational institutions, like PTC, we're helping to create pathways for students and workers alike, ensuring they have the skills and resources needed to thrive in today's workforce. Covia's continued support has made a lasting impact on the region's educational and economic landscape. Learn more about Covia's community impact here. Visit 3BL Media to see more multimedia and stories from Covia
Hamilton Spectator
2 days ago
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Here's how much the new Metrolinx CEO will get paid — plus his potential performance bonuses
New Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay will get paid $686,566 per year, with a potential to earn an additional $137,000 in bonuses, over the next three years during his term as head of the provincial transit agency. Lindsay's compensation, revealed as part of a government Order in Council , includes a bonus structure that ranges from zero to 20 per cent of his base $686,566 salary, 'based on his performance evaluation and subject to any statutory requirements or limitations.' His compensation also includes up to six weeks of paid vacation per year. That's less than his predecessor, Phil Verster , who made $883,991 in his final year as CEO in 2024, after seven years at the helm. Verster, in 2024, was the fourth highest paid public servant on the Sunshine List . Lindsay was made the new permanent head of Metrolinx on June 25, after serving for months as interim CEO. Over the past decade, the transit agency has overseen almost all transit construction in the GTA, including several high-profile projects that have faced delays, growing budgets and scrutiny over a lack of transparency. In a statement announcing his appointment, Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria said, 'Michael has done an outstanding job in his role as acting CEO, and I have complete confidence that he will continue to lead with the same dedication and vision.' When Lindsay was first appointed, Premier Doug Ford said his top priority would be opening the long-delayed Eglinton Crosstown LRT 'as soon as it is safe to do so.' Ford, asked for his comments on the 14-year-long wait for the Crosstown's opening at a press conference in June, praised Lindsay, calling him 'brilliant and a champion.' 'He is fully in charge and he's going to get it done,' Ford said. In 2018, Lindsay was appointed a special adviser when the province mulled taking over the city's subway system. He then moved to Infrastructure Ontario in 2019 as president of project delivery. Lindsay was appointed president and CEO of Infrastructure Ontario in November 2020 before he was made interim CEO of Metrolinx in December 2024. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Toronto Star
2 days ago
- Business
- Toronto Star
Here's how much the new Metrolinx CEO will get paid — plus his potential performance bonuses
New Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay will get paid $686,566 per year, with a potential to earn an additional $137,000 in bonuses, over the next three years during his term as head of the provincial transit agency. Lindsay's compensation, revealed as part of a government Order in Council, includes a bonus structure that ranges from zero to 20 per cent of his base $686,566 salary, 'based on his performance evaluation and subject to any statutory requirements or limitations.' His compensation also includes up to six weeks of paid vacation per year.
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Four new Everdark Sovereigns arrive in Elden Ring Nightreign: Details here
Japanese video game developer FormSoftware has introduced a fresh batch of enhanced boss fights for Elden Ring: Nightreign players. Earlier last month, Elden Ring: Nightreign introduced tougher fights with the 'Everdark Sovereigns,' which are more difficult versions of the game's Nightlord foes that they usually face to conclude a run. Now, building on that, a new batch of challenging fights has been introduced. Players can now expect four new Everdark Sovereigns – Tricephalos, Augur, Equilibrious Beast, and Fissure in the Fog – to join the fighting roster. Why does it matter Each Sovereign version features new attack patterns and greater difficulty, presenting a steeper challenge for players seeking high-stakes fights. Victories yield Sovereign Sigils, which can be exchanged for special Relics and other in-game rewards. Beating a Sovereign for the first time grants additional Sigils. Each of the four bosses already has notable mechanics in their base forms, and their upgraded versions are expected to push players even harder. Only players who have defeated a Nightlord's original form will be eligible to face its Everdark Sovereign variant. These battles are exclusive to online mode, but can be played solo as long as the player is connected to the servers. Once the limited-time window closes, the boss disappears from Expeditions, at least temporarily. The publisher of the game – Bandai Namco – has not confirmed whether this ongoing rollout will lead to a larger expansion or additional DLC. What is Elden Ring Nightreign Elden Ring: Nightreign is a standalone roguelike spin-off developed by FromSoftware for consoles and PCs. Set in Limveld, an alternate, procedurally generated version of Limgrave, it shifts from open-world exploration to a session-based experience where up to three players team up as Nightfarers, progressing through randomised maps and defeating Nightlord bosses across intense three-day cycles. The game blends familiar Soulsborne combat with roguelike mechanics and a 'shrinking zone' similar to battle royale, creating faster, more focused runs. While it supports solo play, Nightreign is primarily designed for co-op teamwork—challenging players to adapt, survive, and secure rewards before restarting in each expedition.
