By: Natasha Archary

News that 25 runners have been disqualified from the Comrades Marathon inspired the conversation on Kaya Drive on Tuesday, 06 June.
The 25 athletes were disqualified for supplying false qualifying information and will subsequently be suspended from entering the races in 2024 and 2025 as well.
Comrades Marathon Association said any athletes found cheating in any way will be dealt with harshly because their actions tarnish the reputation of the marathon.
This drove the conversation with Thomas and Skhumba over whether they have ever submitted false information at any point in their lives.
Thomas Msengana hates filling out forms at residential units, businesses and complexes, and doesn’t understand why he has to provide all his information including his ID number.
The Kaya 959 presenter said he understands why his contact number may be required, but requiring him to submit his ID number is taking things too far.
Thomas also gives out an incorrect cellphone number if he’s approached by people in public, particularly women, by always “remixing” the last number of his contact details.
So, is it just a little white lie that Thomas and many of Kaya listeners are committing by supplying false information when asked to provide personal information?
Not necessarily. The reason most residential units, complexes and businesses require personal information such as contact details, vehicle license and registration, as well your ID number is in the event of an emergency, or should you commit a crime on the premises you are entering
A number of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases, murders, robberies and assault cases occur in residential or business premises and tracking the last person to have visited the victim will be easier for the police if information is correct.
While you’re not obligated to provide your correct details, some security companies now have electronic scanners that you cannot bypass, if you don’t want to supply your correct details.
Skhumba pointed out that contact numbers and personal information are not the only “white lies” people tell, as some supply false information about educational qualifications, or contact references on their CVs.
Listen to the conversation on Kaya Drive:
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