The revelation of an almost 70% pay raise for Parliament’s secretary, Xolile George, has sparked outrage and demands for an investigation. Concerns about transparency and accountability have been raised, as well as the potential consequences of establishing a precedent for inflated public servant salaries. The controversy highlights the need for vigilance and scrutiny in our democracy. Parliament has justified the pay increase by referring to an impartial expert assessment, but the secrecy surrounding the decision has fueled skepticism and distrust. The Democratic Alliance’s call for an investigation serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and responsible governance in our democracy.
The relationship between Jonah Hill and his exgirlfriend, Sarah Brady, has been making headlines, especially after the emergence of alleged text messages between the two. The series of revelations provides an interesting insight into the dynamics of their past relationship, which was marked by controversy and drama.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, held a media briefing recently to provide an update on the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting that took place on June 21, 2023. The briefing was held at the Ronnie Mamoepa Press Room in Pretoria and was livestreamed for those who could not attend in person. Its main aim was to keep the public informed of their government’s decisions and actions.
The Department of Health and one of its senior officials, Mr. Popo Maja, have recently garnered media attention due to his court appearance on June 21. Despite this, the department has not yet commented on the matter, choosing to gather more information about the alleged charges first.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) is inviting the public to comment on its recent draft of the PSC Bill of 2023. This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and active public participation in the legislative process. ### The Drafting Process
On June 7th, 2023, the South African Cabinet convened to address various concerns and devise strategies for the country’s progress. Following the meeting, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, briefed the media on the outcomes and plans for the future. The briefing, held at the Ronnie Mamoepa Press Room in Pretoria, was accessible through live streaming on social media platforms.
Minister Sihle Zikalala of Public Works and Infrastructure has launched an investigation to ensure transparency and tackle questionable procurement practices related to the maintenance of government properties. This decision came in response to recent revelations of exorbitant costs for maintenance and refurbishments on various government properties in Cape Town and Pretoria.
The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Premier, Finance, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, led by Hon. Aaron Motswana, is taking proactive steps towards transparency and accountability. On Tuesday, June 6, 2023, a virtual oversight meeting will be held to discuss the Department of Finance’s 4th Quarter Performance Report and the North West Provincial Government (NWPG) Expenditure Report for the 2022/23 financial year.
South Africa’s mining sector, which has been a significant contributor to the country’s economy for over a century, continues to face challenges. Despite this, the industry remains a crucial pillar of the nation’s economic reconstruction and recovery. Recently, the Minerals Council South Africa held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), where the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr. Gwede Mantashe, shared critical insights into the current state and trajectory of the mining sector.
Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the Minister of Electricity, is scheduled to hold a media briefing on June 2, 2023, to update the public on the progress made in implementing the Energy Action Plan. This update is crucial in ensuring transparency and accountability in South Africa’s energy policies and initiatives.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has released the fourth quarter Political Party Funding Disclosure Report for the financial year 2022/23, marking the eighth publication since the implementation of the Political Party Funding Act on 1 April 2021. This report covers the period from 1 January to 31 March 2023 and follows the firstever Political Party Funding Annual Report released in May 2023, which highlighted the financial year that ended on 31 March 2022.
On June 1, the North West Legislature will witness a significant event as Hon. Basetsana R.S Dantjie, the Speaker of the North West Legislature, presents the budget speech for the 2023/24 financial year. This occasion will take place during the Legislature House Sitting in the Legislature Chamber at 09h00, highlighting the commitment of the North West Provincial government to transparency and accountability.
The South African Constitutional Court has delivered a landmark ruling on May 30, 2023, in the case of Arena Holdings (Pty) Ltd and Others v SARS and Others. The judgment upholds the North Gauteng High Court’s declaration that certain provisions of the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000 (PAIA) and the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 (TAA), which restricted access to tax records, were constitutionally invalid.
South Africa ranks 69th out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index. Corruption in government institutions is a pervasive problem that undermines public trust and diverts resources from important public services. The Gauteng MEC’s celebration of the arrest of a corrupt official is a small but significant step towards combating corruption in the country.
During his address, Deputy President Mashatile touched upon a range of topics that have been affecting South Africa and its citizens. Apart from acknowledging the devastating impact of the COVID19 pandemic, he also spoke about the government’s efforts to combat it.
On May 22nd, 2023, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, held a briefing that covered several pressing issues. The agenda included topics such as the issuance of an ID to Thabo Bester, the revocation of a South African passport, and Dr. Nandipha Magudumana’s urgent court application against the State.