The MEC for the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane has issued a warning to the newly appointed members of the North West Gambling Board and the North West Liquor Authority regarding corruption, misconduct and weak enforcement.
On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, Lenkopane officiated the formal swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Board Members of the North West Gambling Board and the North West Liquor Authority at Sun City.
“There must be no corruption, no selective enforcement, and no inaction. We expect these Boards to regulate fairly, act decisively against non-compliance, and contribute to rebuilding public trust,” Lenkopane said.
While addressing the new members, Lenkopane emphasized the weight of responsibility entrusted to them, describing the oath of office as a solemn commitment to serve with integrity, discipline, and accountability.
The swearing-in, presided over by Mogwase Senior Magistrate Ms M Matebesi, marks a critical governance milestone aimed at strengthening oversight, accountability, and effective regulation within the province’s gambling and liquor sectors.
“This oath is not ceremonial; it demands loyalty, integrity, and discipline, and requires that you always act in a manner that is beyond reproach,” Lenkopane said.
What was also highlighted by the department is that the two boards play a strategic role in ensuring compliance with legislation, promoting responsible trading practices, protecting communities and contributing to economic growth and revenue generation.
“The gambling and liquor sectors remain highly sensitive, operating at the intersection of economic activity and social responsibility, MEC called on the Boards to strike a careful balance between industry growth and addressing societal challenges.”
“The North West Liquor Authority, through its Board, is responsible for adjudicating liquor license applications and ensuring compliance with trading conditions across approximately 8,000 licensed establishments in the province, including taverns, pubs, night clubs, liquor restaurants, accommodation establishments and bottle stores.
“Similarly, the North West Gambling Board is mandated to regulate the gambling industry through licensing, compliance monitoring, and enforcement, while combating illegal gambling activities and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly young people,” said the department in statement.
Meanwhile, Lenkopane said the Gambling Board is in a stable state, with a clean audit and strong performance, and called on the new Board to build on this foundation.
“We are handing over an institution that is stable and performing well. This must be protected and improved; we will not accept regression. The responsibility now rests with you to restore confidence and demonstrate professionalism,” Lenkopane emphasized.
The appointment of the following board members fulfils a commitment made during the 2025/26 Budget Speech to strengthen governance, improve accountability, and enhance the performance of departmental entities.
Newly Appointed Board Members for the North West Gambling Board:
- Prof. George Nzimeni Malebe – Chairperson
- Prof. Vuyo Ntsangane Peach – Deputy Chairperson
- Ms. Phemelo Eunice Lobelo
- Mr. Tebogo Leshope
- Dr. George Marindi
- Mr. Lesego Sibikiri
Newly Appointed Board Members for the North West Liquor Authority:
- Adv. Job Molapo – Chairperson
- Mr. Thembelani Mpakati – Deputy Chairperson
