YAMAs could face cancellation
Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Cassper Nyovest PIC: MOMPATI TLHANKANE
The decision, which will be made by Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA), will determine if the awards go on as planned on Saturday or not. Yarona FM and Ventura were expected to file their heads of argument by end of business yesterday to enable CIPA to consider the arguments advanced and to have the matter resolved by tomorrow.
CIPA spokesperson, Marietta Magashula confirmed that they indeed have such a case and it will be held on Thursday. She said the decision would also be taken on the same day. “However, we would like to note that this hearing is not open to the public or the media,” she emphasised.
Instead, it has sparked a storm of accusations, denials, and unresolved questions about the influence of De Beers on the nation’s politics. Former president Mokgweetsi Masisi’s claims that the diamond giants bankrolled his removal to dodge taxes – and that the new Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government watered down a favourable diamond deal – are explosive matters. But without evidence, they risk becoming a toxic distraction from...