Midday Live: Recent Episodes
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Today on Update At Noon we had a power packed show for you with the latest on: * The investigations into the fire that killed five people in Pietermaritzburg in KZN; *The two children aged five and seven who are fighting for their lives after a house they were sleeping in was allegedly petrol bombed at Mvelaphanda village, outside Vuwani, in Limpopo.
*The Khutsong Community Clinic in Carltonville on Gauteng's West Rand that has no access to running water.
*Plus our lead: The police and owner of Forensic Data Analysts (FDA) have agreed to withdraw the police commissioner's urgent application to prevent FDA from switching the police's IT systems off because of non payment. The urgent application was supposed to be heard today in the High Court in Pretoria but has since been struck off the roll. Last week, FDA's Keith Keating threatened to stop the SAPS from accessing certain systems that his company installed for the them. Keating is in the centre of corruption allegations against former police commissioner, Kgomotso Phalane. We spoke to the Chairperson of the standing committee on public accounts, Themba Godi on this matter.
Speakers at the memorial service of struggle stalwart the late Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, have paid tribute to her during an official memorial service currently being held at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto. People from all walks of life as well as supporters from different political parties are attending. Madikizela-Mandela's grandchildren and great-grandchildren also expressed their feelings about her passing. The icon died last week Monday at Milkpark hospital in Johannesburg after complaining of flue-like symptoms. Update At Noon has been broadcasting from Soweto.
Crowds continue to gather outside the home of the late struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela in Soweto to pay their respect. Flags will fly at half-mast for the next ten days in honour of the former ANC Women's League president. Many have described her as fearless and committed to the struggle against apartheid, despite the harsh treatment meted out against her which included imprisonment. Former president Jacob Zuma visited the home earlier today and says Madikizela-Mandela was an inspiration to all.
Former real estate agent and convicted racist Vicki Momberg's application for leave to appeal her guilty conviction and three year sentence for crimen injuria has been postponed to next Wednesday. Last week, Momberg was sentenced to three years in prison, with one year suspended, for her racist tirade in 2016. She was found guilty on four counts of crimen injuria after she lashed out at a black police officer who helped her after an alleged smash-and-grab incident in Northriding, Johannesburg. She has come under fire from social media users for arriving in court spotting cornrows. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo was in court.
Six people have been hacked to death at the village of KwaZulu in Mbizana in the Eastern Cape following a faction fight with a neighbouring village over lobolo. Scores of people were critically injured and taken to St Patricks's Hospital in Mbizana. It's alleged that the fight broke out after a family from Mkhandlweni village demanded that the lobolo paid to a kwaZulu family be paid back. Nkululeko Nyembezi compiled this report.
Events are planned across the United States to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr. The 39 year-old Baptist Minister died in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 4th 1968, while standing on the second-floor balcony of the Lorraine Motel when a sniper's bullet struck him in the neck sparking rioting in more than 100 cities across the country. Correspondent Sherwin Bryce-Pease looks back at that fateful day and engages both historians and political scientists about King's legacy, five decades later.
As South Africans mourn the death of Winnie Madikizela Mandela, struggle stalwart, Lillian Diedericks who was at the forefront of the Women's March to the Union Buildings in 1956, has described her as a fearless woman. She spoke to the SABC from her home in Port Elizabeth. She says Madikizela-Mandela survived the most difficult period of her life. Our reporter Noma Bolani take a look at the late icon's life.
Police are still processing the scene where six people died when a bus was set alight by two unknown suspects at Driekop outside Burgersfort in Limpopo. Fifty Modikwa Platinum Mine workers were on their way to work when the bus was allegedly petrol bombed. The bus belongs to the Sekgawa Bus company. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker about the developments.
Struggle icon Mama Winnie Madikizela's brother says her children should decide where she should be buried. The Madikizela family in the Eastern Cape says it hopes Madikizela-Mandela recieves a funeral without controversy- befitting the contribution she made to South Africa . The 81- year-old anti-apartheid struggle stalwart passed away in Johannesburg yesterday. Earlier, the Abathembu Royal Kingdom said it was prepared to lay her to rest in Qunu as per their tradition. Government officials are meeting today to kickstart the process of arranging her funeral and memorial services. Meanwhile our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi is in Bizana in the Eastern Cape this afternoon, where Madikizela-Mandela was born.
The chaotic Nelson Mandela Bay Metro special council meeting has been adjourned for the second time since it started in Port Elizabeth this morning. The meeting is expected to debate a motion of no confidence in DA Mayor Athol Trollip, Speaker Jonathan Lawack and Chief Whip Werner Senekal. But chaotic scenes between opposition parties and the speaker have been dominated the meeting.
Gauteng Police have still not made any breakthrough in the missing person case of the deputy director of NGO - "A re Ageng" - Nomawethu Kunene. Kunene disappeared from her home in Randfontein - west of Johannesburg a month ago. She reportedly blew the whistle on irregular payments made by the Gauteng Social Development Department. Our reporter Wisani Makhubele is following the story.
The legal counsel for Phillip Schutte accused of the murder of Coligny teenager Mahlomola Mosweu has asked state witness, why he did not take pictures of tyre tracks at the sunflower field where Mosweu was allegedly captured and pushed off a moving vehicle. Head of organised crime in North West Clifford Kgorane has told the court that he only went to the scene four days after the incident, and the tyre tracks were not visible, because people staying at the nearby Scotland Informal Settlement use the road near the field, to and from town. He says it was difficult to distinguish between tyre and foot tracks, hence police did not take pictures of tyre tracks. Schutte's lawyer Pieter Schutte has put it to Kgorane that he did not take those pictures, because there were no tyre tracks, to which Kgorane hastened to deny. Schutte and Phillip Doorewaard are on trial, facing seven charges, including murder, intimidation and unlawful possession of a firearm.Our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane is on the story.
The battle over the age restriction of the multi award winning film Inxeba continues in the high court in Pretoria today. The producers want the court to overturn a decision by the Film and Publications Board which has classified it as pornography. The court granted an order with the view of allowing the parties to return today for comprehensive submissions. Traditional groups have been up in arms saying the movie portrays the Xhosa culture of initiation in a bad light. The film was reclassified to 18 after an urgent interim interdict brought by the producers. They are now asking the court to review the initial decision of the Appeals Tribunal and classify the film with a 16 age restriction.
Vicky Momberg who was found guilty of four counts of crimen injuria for hurling insults at the 10111 emergency staff, as well as police officers, has been sentenced to three years in prison with one year suspended. Momberg used the "K" word 48 times during the confrontation which was recorded by cellphone. Officers had been trying to assist her after she experienced a smash and grab incident in Northriding, west of Johannesburg. Here is an extract of the incident.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially launched the Youth Employment Service initiative in Johannesburg this morning. This in partnership with private sector and seeks to address the high rate of youth unemployment in the country. Ramaphosa says after months of talks and negotiations with the CEOs' Forum, it came about that atleast three hundred thousand jobs will be created annually through this YES initiative.
Executive mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Herman Mashaba, says he is disappointed but not surprised that the ANC is peddling baseless and heartless claims against him and a world-renowned NGO. The ANC in the City of Johannesburg has once again approached the Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane to investigate Mashaba and this time for allegedly paying over eleven million rand to an NGO to provide services to the Municipality. Mashaba, who was the organisations chairperson for 16 years, is accused of initiating the funding for the Field Band Foundation without any written proposal sent to the City by the Foundation. Mashaba's Director of Communications Luyando Mfeka has told our presenter Stephen Kirker that the NGO's engagement was above board and they welcome any probe.
The high court in Pretoria is hearing an application by Numsa and Transform RSA opposing the signing of power purchase agreements between Independent power producers (IPP) and Eskom. Numsa argues that this will be detrimental to the working class as it means Eskom will require less coal fired electricity leading to closure of coal fired power plants. It says more than 30 thousand workers will be affected. Our reporter Liela Magnus is in court.
he management of SAA are appearing before the Standing Committee on Finance today, presenting their quaterly report. The state parastal has been plagued by financial problems which have neccesitating government to bail it out several times. Our reporter Lulama Matya is in Parliament.
A meeting by the SADC Foreign Affairs Council is underway in Pretoria. According to SADC Chair and Minister of International Relations Lindiwe Sisulu, the meeting is expected to review regional co-operation in trade and health. Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa joined 44 other African leaders in signing a declaration toward a free trade agreement in Africa. The Agreement seeks to do away with tariffs on regional goods, while allowing the free movement of people on the continent. Minister Sisulu says partnership with the private sector will make this vision a reality. Our reporter Nthakoana Ngatane is in Pretoria.
The management at Venetia De Beers Diamond Mine outside Musina in Limpopo is conducting inspections this afternoon after a mine worker died over the weekend. The body of thirty one-year-old Maggie Dimakatso Semata is yet to be retrieved and operations remain suspended. Mine Spokesperson Josephine Peters says the incident happened at the processing section and was caused by a conveyer belt. Our reporter Rudzani Tshivhase is on the story.
The Gupta brothers are appearing before tax authorities in India today in an on-going probe against them. The brothers were summoned by that country's tax officials earlier this month and given until March 26th to make an appearance. Our India correspondent Neha Poonia joins us now on the line.
The state has called its third witness, constable Kgomotso Kgabi in the murder trial of two men accused of the murder of 15-year old Mahlomola Mosweu in Coligny in the North West. Mosweu died in April last year, and the state alleges he was pushed off a moving bakkie by the accused, Pieter Doorewaard and Phillip Schutte. Kgabi was on patrol on the day Mosweu died and attended to the scene. She has told the court that upon arrival, she found the injured teenager lying on the ground, with two men watching him. Our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane is in court.
Constitutional law expert Dr. Pierre De Vos says the Economic Freedom Fighters and the Democratic Alliance have a winnable case against the presidency. He was reacting to threats by both parties to force former president Jacob Zuma to pay back money used for his legal fees relating to his corruption case. Responding to a question by EFF leader, Julius Malema, in parliament last week -- president Cyril Ramaphosa revealed that the state paid more than 15 million rand towards Zuma's case. The DA and EFF insist that the 2006 agreement by the presidency to pay Zuma's legal fees was unlawful. Senior political journalist, Amos Phago has this report.
Emergency officials in Gauteng remain on high alert as floods continue to batter the province. Some of the worst affected areas are Centurion in Pretoria and Thokoza in Ekurhuleni amongst others. The City of Joburg says other areas that are high risk are Alexander, Soweto, Fourways, Kempton and Edenvale. Pictures of people walking knee deep in rain water while making their way to work have been posted on social media and news sites. There are also heavy rains in the North West province, the Free State, KwaZulu Natal and parts of Mpumalanga. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Johan Pieterse from the Tshwane Emergency Services.
The Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearings may have concluded with an outcome that has been accepted by all parties, but there are still questions around those who were not part of the process. 144 mentally-ill patients died following the Gauteng Health Department's decision to terminate its long-standing contract with Life Esidmeni. Over 1 700 patients were then moved to unlicensed and ill-equipped NGOs across the province where some died of hunger, cold and dehydration. However, only around 135 victims and survivors were part of the 1.2-million rand settlement awarded by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke. Wisani Makhubele compiled this report.
Parliamentarians want the board of VBS Mutual Bank to appear before the Joint Standing Committee on Finance to explain what led to it being placed under curatorship. The South African Reserve Bank placed the bank under administration earlier this month saying it was in the best interest of VBS' clients. The Reserve Bank has been making representations in Parliament this morning. The MPs including the chairperson of the committee Yunis Carrim stated their views on whether the bank should be called to Parliament.
Suspended Cape Town Mayor Patricia De Lille's disciplinary hearing is underway in the city today. She is facing charges of misconduct. The DA is alleging that she covered about maladministration. She is also alleged to have solicited a bribe from a company manufacturing fire extinguishers. De Lille has vehemently denied the allegations against her and says she will clear her name. She also wants the proceedings to be open to the media as she fears that she might be prejudiced if that does not happen. Our reporter Chris Mabuya is monitoring developments.
According to SABC's COO, Chris Moroleng, National radio station, SAfm, which has suffered significant audience losses, is set to undergo radical reformatting, which will include major changes in the line-up and on-air personnel. This as the Public Broadcaster embarks on a massive restructuring project at a programming level in an effort to increase audiences and revenue. Maroleng was briefing the Communications Committeee in Parliament.
A Limpopo family is struggling to bury a family member due to a shortage of funds at the VBS Mutual Bank. The family is unable to access its money as the bank is under curatorship. Our reporter Michael Makungo has the story.
Arguments around the Basic Education Department's infrastructure law are being heard in the Bisho High Court in the Eastern Cape this afternoon. Civil organisation Equal Education says the law as it stands now, allows the department to get away with some of its responsibilities. It says they want those loopholes to be closed. Here is what the counsel for the Department of Basic Education has been arguing.
A group of people earlier chanted slogans outside the Rustenburg Magistrate Court, as nine people including senior police officers appeared in court for the multiple murders at Lonmin operations in Marikana. The courtroom is packed to capacity and security is also tightened. The nine are facing charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice and contravention of the IPID ACT. The murders were committed on the 13th of August in 2012, while the case of defeating the ends of justice relates to failure by police to report that one of the arrested miners on the 16th of August died in their vehicle. Our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane is in court.
Stephen Kirker speaks to the SABC's Francis Herd about the lunch time market update as well as the impact of the court's decision dismissing an application by Gupta-owned companies that sought to compel the Bank of Baroda to stay in SA.
Gauteng MEC for Education Panyaza Lesufi says there should be no confusion about who is in charge in the classroom. He was speaking during his visit to the Three Rivers Secondary School, in Vereeniging earlier today, where he went to assess the situation after a learner hit a teacher with an exercise book. Video footage of the incident has been circulating on social media. Lesufi says learners must know their place.
VBS clients at the embattled bank's Thohoyandou branch in Limpopo are streaming in to enquire about their accounts and investments. The Reserve Bak yesterday announced that VBS was being placed under curatorship owing to a liquidity risk. Some clients are not worried about the bank's future as they believe that there are enough financial controls in the country.Our reporter Katlego Nyoni is following the story.
An analyst says the dismissal of a court application by the 19 Gupta-owned companies seeking to force the Bank of Baroda to continue doing business in South Africa, signals another step in the collapse of the empire. The bank was the only one providing a service to the companies, after the country's big four banks terminated their business relationship with them. The Indian state-owned bank will stop its local operations at the end of this month. Judge Moses Mavundla of the High Court in Pretoria delivered the judgment this morning.
The National Consumer Commission has told Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry, that it is left with two weeks to conclude the Ford Kuga investigations. Commissioner Ebrahim Mohamed says they have been told of allegations that the burning Ford Kuga's were dumped in South Africa from another market overseas. Mohamed says the report will be finalised when they get the rest of the requested information from Ford South Africa.
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga have agreed to unite the east African country following months of a political stalemate that has threatened to tear the country apart. The two met in the capital, Nairobi. Kenyatta says it's time for a new beginning and for healing the country. Odinga on the other hand says the two have agreed to set in motion a national reconciliation and healing process. This is the first official meeting between the two parties since the October repeat polls
The court battle between the lawyers of Export Development Canada and the legal representatives of the Gupta family continues in the High Court in Johannesburg this afternoon. The EDC has brought an urgent application on a matter relating to an aircraft. The Guptas paid a 10 million dollar deposit on the Bombadier and signed surety on a loan to and Irish Finance house for the balance. The matter was set down for one day and lawyers for the Guptas sought to have it either delayed or struck off the roll, something that Alfred Cockerell , SC, for EDC, argued was just playing for time.
The High Court in Bloemfontein has ruled that the National Prosecuting Authority can only preserve R40 million of the R220 million it sought to freeze. This relates to the controversial Estina Dairy Farm project which was meant to benefit emerging black farmers. The Assets Forfeiture Unit decsended on the farm last month. The NPA also sought to freeze R10 million from the personal account of Atul Gupta. NPA spokesperson in the Free State Phaladi Shuping, says the court's decision does not mean that their case was weak.
Bloomberg’s Arabile Gumede explains why MTN, which has posted some good results, is considering pulling out of some markets and how Standard Bank is predicting a bumper year. Standard’s optimism is based on its perceptions of the economy’s prospects under President Ramaphosa, a sentiment that is echoed by many other business leaders. One of those is Michael Bloomberg, who met with his “old friend” Ramaphosa this week. Apart from meeting with business leaders Bloomberg is attending the world conference on tobacco in Cape Town and has pledged a billion Dollars to the fight against tobacco.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) says all beneficiaries of social grants will be paid come April 1st. The announcement was made during a media briefing in Pretoria this morning and comes after the agency made an urgent application in the Constitutional Court earlier this week, seeking an extention of its controversial contract with CashMaster Pay Services (CPS). The court declared the contract invalid in 2014 and ordered SASSA to come up with a new plan to distribute grants within eighteen months of the judgement. SASSA's Acting CEO Ruth Bhengu says they will be able to pay beneficiaries even if the court does not allow them to work with CPS for another six months.
The Hawks in the North West province have raided the office of the Director General in the office of the Premier Supra Mahumapelo and confiscated several documents. The raid comes after alleged irregularities involving a contract with an ICT company came to light. Hawks spokesperson Tlangelani Rikhotso has confirmed that they are investigating cases of fraud and corruption within several provincial departments. North West Government Spokesperson Brian Sentswangbung spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Our presenter Stephen Kirker speaks to economist from Nedbank Busisiwe Radebe about the lunch time market update.
Members of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Justice have lambasted Public Protector Busi Mkhwebane for not increasing the scope of her Estina Dairy Farm investigation into alleged involvment by political officials. Mkhwebane gave reason that she does not have the power to investigate criminal matters and her office was limited by resources and could not afford a broader investigation. Mkhwebane says the first complaint about the corruption at the farm came in 2013 from the Democratic Alliance
pta-owned properties in India have been raided by the income tax department in that country this morning at the Gupta hometown of Saharanpur. We understand that several documents from the properties were siezed. Our Indian correspondent Neha Poonia, spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Gauteng Health and Education have been allocated the lion's share of the province's government budget. Gauteng Finance MEC, Barbara Creecy, presented her budget for the next financial year in the provincial Legislature this morning. The MEC says the budget sets out how the provincial government will fund its commitment to equity and social justice, as well as how procurement spending will be used to improve public facilities and create jobs
The office of the North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo says forensic investigations into the affairs of the provincial Health Department have already started. The department is embroiled in a controversial deal regarding a 30-million rand pre-payment to a Gupta linked private company MEDIOSA. The premier and Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi have been involved in a public spat over this issue. Head of the provincial Health Department Thabo Lekalakala, has been put on leave until the investigation is concluded. Meanwhile our reporter Sisi Segalo reports about the non-payment of workers and what the community says about the clinic.
Police are still looking for those who have been torching cars in what is said to be a feud between metre taxi and Taxify drivers in Pretoria. 21-year old Siyabonga Ngcobo's body was found inside the boot of a burnt vehicle. He was a Taxify driver. On Friday two metre taxis were also torched in the Pretoria CBD in what is suspected to be a revenge attack. Sunnyside police spokesperson Captain Daniel Mavimbela has told our presenter Stephen Kirker that the situation is calm but tense in the area.
Tiger Brands who own Enterprise Foods are expected to hold a media briefing this afternoon after a recall of products including polony, viennas and cold meats over the outbreak of listeriosis. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi announced this past weekend that the company's Polokwane factory in Limpopo is the source of the listeria outbreak which has killed 180 people. This is the largest outbreak worldwide. Our reporter Katlego Nyoni is following up on developments at the factory and managed to record the interaction between consumers and the management.
Another consulting firm has reportedly received a suspicious pre-payment of 103 million rand, by the North West Department of Public Works. AYAMAH consulting Engineers which specialises in water projects was tasked with refurbishment of 33 roads in the North West. It was also awarded a further 11 million road contract without going through open-tender system. Stephen Kirker spoke to North West Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Transport and Community Safety Chairperson Gaoage Molapisi....
Another consulting firm has reportedly received a suspicious pre-payment of 103 million rand, by the North West Department of Public Works. AYAMAH consulting Engineers who specialise in water projects were tasked with refurbishment of 33 roads in the North West. It was also awarded a further 11 million road contract without going through open-tender system. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi filed this report....
Police investigating after the remains of a man were found in the boot of a Taxify car. Last year, some taxi drivers in Sandton north of Johannesburg called on government and the police to intervene to ensure their safety and that of Uber drivers after vehicles were vadalised in battle between the drivers and those belonging to Uber. Stephen Kirker spoke to Police spokesperson, Captain Daniel Mavimbela and spokesperson for The Movement, Teresa Munchick, they are an advocacy group for Uber and Taxify Driver
Another consulting firm has reportedly received a suspicious pre-payment of 103 million rand, by the North West Department of Public Works. AYAMAH consulting Engineers which specialises in water projects was tasked with refurbishment of 33 roads in the North West. Stephen Kirker spoke to Head of department at the department of public works and roads, Pakiso Mothupi
The march to PRASA Head Offices in Johannesburg by the National Transport Movement and SAFTU has been postponed. The unions are demanding the immediate reinstatement and backpay of 700 workers who were reinstated by the Constitutional Court. We spoke to PRASA's Nana Zenani.
Medical staff at Voortrekker Hospital in Mokopane Limpopo, have gone on a strike over a number of concerns including a shortage of equipment, non payment of nursing staff and hiring irregularities. There are reports that patients are being turned away. The protestors say they have been raising the issues with the health department for a long time but nothing is being done. Our reporter Katlego Nyoni is on the story.
CRL Rights Commission chairperson, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva, says a parliamentary workshop in June last year was told that there were unusual activities happening at Seven Angels Church in Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape. Seven suspects, linked to the murders of the 5 Ngcobo police, died during a gun battle with police at the church last Friday. Mkhwanazi-Xaluva was speaking during a media briefing in Braamfontein, Johannesburg earlier today, to provide clarity regarding the report on the church.
The Office of the ANC's Chief Whip in Parliament has confirmed the resignation of former Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown as a member of Parliament. Brown was replaced by Pravin Gordhan as Public Enterprises minister in a cabinet reshuffle by president Cyril Ramaphosa. Stephen Kirker to ANC spokesperson, Nonceba Mhlauli...
Deputy Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga has denied that the railway system on the Cape Town central line is on the verge of collapse. Chikunga visited several train stations this morning while on a fact finding mission. Services on the line were suspended last month after a security guard was shot and killed. It remained closed for several weeks, also due to vandalism. The rail agency PRASA says 70 percent of all crime related incidents are being reported on this line. Thandiswa Mawu reports
28 companies including the Mail and Guardian, Primedia, the SABC and News24 have been referred to the Competition Tribunal on charges of price fixing. The companies colluded through the Media Credit Co-ordinator to offer similar discounts and payment terms to advertising agencies. The MCC will also be prosecuted as a result of the investigation that started in 2011. Stephen Kirker spoke to Head of Communications at the Competition Commission Sipho Ngwema.
CASAC legal representative, Geoff Budlender says there is no need to sympathise with former Nationals Director of Public Prosecutions, Mxolisi Nxasana because he took advantage of the situation when he accepted the Golden handshake of 17.3 million rand. He reiterates that Shaun Abrahams appointment was unlawful, but he doesn't sympathise with Nxasana. He has told the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg that, Abrahams has a burden to clarify why he should stay in office. Budlender says there is no way Abrahams will decide on former president's future, instead he must vacate office as he occupied this position unlawfully. He warns that if Abrahams is left to occupy office, this will amount to him being used to settle political scores. Stephen Kirker reports
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) Head Robert McBride has abandoned his application to make representations to the National prosecuting Authority on why he shouldn't be prosecuted for allegedly assaulting his teenage daughter. McBride is also accused of attempting to strangle the 15-year-old last year. He appeared briefly in the Pretoria magistrates court earlier today where the matter was postponed to the 20th of next month. Our reporter Phumzile Mlangeni was in court.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has re-iterated that government has to deal with the issue of land reform in a decisive manner. Ramaphosa was addressing the National House of Traditional Leaders in Parliament today. He says the expropriation of land must also be dealt with speedily. The ANC government has committed itself to addressing the land issue saying it will also help in the process of healing the nation.
The CEO of G9 Consulting, Rajie Murugan says his company's investigation into the relationship between Eskom and Trillian revealed that the two company's contract contravened the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The forensic company was appointed by the state-owned entity to investigate allegations of possible irregular payments to Trillian. Murugan told Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises earlier today, that there were missing documents and that some were not signed.
The Independent Electoral Commission has told the Moerane Commission of Inquiry that there has been a high number of bi-elections in the province of KwaZulu Natal, more than anywhere else in the country. The commission is probing political killings in the province and witness have testified that being a councillor is largely seen as a means to earn an income and some people will cling to those positions at all costs. Councillors and municipal officials are amongst the victims who have been gunned down in the province. More than 100 people have been killed since 2014. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is on the story.
The South African Communist Party has added its voice to the criticism of Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba's decision to increase VAT. The SACP's General-Secretary, Blade Nzimande briefed the media earlier today following the party's Central Executive Committee meeting over the weekend. Nzimande says South Africans now have to bare the brunt of these austerity measures.
Community members and the media have come out in their numbers this afternoon, ahead of the court appearance of 13 men accused of murdering five police officers and a retired soldier at the Ngcobo Police Station in the Eastern Cape last week. The suspects were arrested over the weekend after a special task force was set up by the National Police Commissioner. Seven other suspects were killed during a shootout with police at a church in the area, which is believed to be a hideout. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi is at the Ngcobo Magistrates Court.
Witnesses continue to accuse the late councillor Petrus Sabata of having allocated RDP houses to people who were not residents of Marikana in the North West. This has been coming out during the trial within a trial of the 14 men facing charges of murdering Sabata who was hacked to death in December 2016. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is following the story.
The EFF says the ANC in KwaZulu Natal has been the most politically intolerant towards it since its formation five years ago. The EFF's Deputy Secretary-General Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi is testifying before the Moerane Commission of Inquiry which is investigating political killings in the province. Mkhaliphi says policing has to be transformed such that the police don't take bribes or are influenced by politics. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is attending the hearing.
Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown has been found guilty of inadvertently misleading Parliament in her assertion that there were no other contracts of engagement concluded between Eskom and Gupta linked Trillian. She has been also found guilty of violating the provisions of the Executives Ethics Code of the Constitution. In her report, Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane has asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to take appropriate action against Brown within a period of no later than 14 days. Brown has responded.
The Hawks say President Jacob Zuma's son Duduzane is not being sought by the police. The special investigative unit was briefing the media in Pretoria this afternoon on developments in the Estina Dairy Farm Project case. Acting Head of the Hawks Yolisa Matakata has also confirmed that Ajay Gupta has been declared a fugitive. His lawyers have been disputing this. Matakata did clarify that Ajay's case is not related to the Estina probe. She says information about Duduzane did not come from hr office.
The so-called doom pastor has been testifying in mitigation of sentence in the Mookgopong magistrate's court in Limpopo today where he was found guilty of spraying congregants with the DOOM insecticide. Pastor Lethebo Rabalago has been convicted on eight charges, five of which are for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and the rest for contravention of an Act prohibiting the unlawful use of agricultural remedies. Our reporter Pimani Baloi is attending court proceedings.
The hunt for the suspects who shot and killed five police officers and a retired soldier at eNgcobo police station in the Eastern Cape in the early hours of yesterday morning continues. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula says the suspects must be arrested as soon as possible. A special task team has been set up. A group of gunmen burst into the police station shot the officers and stole ten guns. An ATM was also robbed on the same night. Our reporter Fundiswa Mhlekude is following the story.
The Hawks and Ajay Gupta's lawyers disagree about whether he is a fugitive or not. A report yesterday revealed that his lawyers want the Hawks to show proof that an arrest warrant was indeed issued against him. The Hawks say Ajay has been declared a fugitive after failing to show up for a meeting as was agreed with his lawyer two weeks ago. He is facing charges of corruption but authorities say these are not related to the current probe into the Estina Dairy Farm in the Free State. We contacted Ajay's lawyer, Rudi Krause who responded via an SMS saying that he was unavailable as he will be court the whole day. We then contacted the Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi to get their side of the story.
The CEO of the Gupta-owned Optimum Coal mine in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, George van der Merwe has told striking workers that the mine is experiencing financial problems. Van der Merwe visited the mine today after workers downed tools, demanding that he addresses their concerns before they return to work. The employees say they're concerned about the future of the mine, with the Gupta brothers embroiled in corruption allegations and at least one of them having left the country. Stephen Kirker spoke to NUM Branch Secretary at the mine, Richard Mguzuli.
CEO of the Gupta-owned Optimum Coal mine in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, George van der Merwe has told striking workers that the mine is experiencing financial problems. Van der Merwe visited the mine today after workers downed tools, demanding that he address their concerns before they return to work. Workers say they're concerned about the future of the mine, with the Gupta brothers embroiled in corruption allegations and at least one out of the country. Van der Merwe says the challenges faced by the mine have been caused by what he calls external forces. Stephen Kirker spoke to NUM's branch Secretary at the mine, Richard Mguzuli
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is facing a strike by members of trade union Nehawu. This comes at a time when the organisation is supposed to be distributing funds to needy students as the academic year starts. The union wants, amongst other things, the minimum wage to be increased. It alleges that management has been ignoring them. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Nehawu's National Spokesperson, Khaya Xaba.
Another Health facility, Stilfontein clinic, located in the North West province, has been reported to be in a state of collapse. Dr Shailendra Lala, who specialises in HIV treatment, says he sheds tears every time he treats a patient especially children suffering from HIV and he's told there is no medicine because of budgetary constraints. Dr Lala says Stilfontein clinic does not even have urine dipsticks nor basic internet to review patients' results.
Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane has failed to appear before Parliament's Minerals Resources Committee to answer questions on State Capture. He has written to the committee to inform them that he is appearing before an NCOP committee. The Minerals Resources Committee Chairperson Sahlulele Luzipo,says today's date was suggested by Zwane and that it is therefore unacceptable for him not to have arrived. The Committee may have to sub-poena him as this is the third time he's failed to appear.
Senior Police officers at national level are expected to arrive in e-Ngcobo in the Eastern Cape this afternoon, where five police officers and one soldier were shot and killed after being attacked at the local police station. Five other officers were injured. The community has expressed shock and says crime is high in the area. National Police Commissioner Khehla Sitole has set up a high level task team that will track down and arrest the men. The suspects made off with ten guns and also stole a police van. They also robbed an ATM close to the police station. Our reporter Fundiswa Mhlekude is on the story.
The 10th African Energy Indaba is taking place today and tomorrow at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The indaba is the regional conference of the World Energy Council and has the South African National Energy Association and the African Union's NEPAD Planning and Coordinating Agency as strategic partners. The provision of reliable and accessible energy across the continent is vital to development and the indaba explores sustainable ways of energy provision. While renewable energy options and natural gas are on the agenda, a large part of today's programme is dedicated to Nuclear energy. Director of the Indaba Brian Statham spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Members of the South African Police Services have been testifying before the Moerane commission today. Police have been accused of not doing much to prevent the killings or to arrest suspects implicated in political killings in KwaZulu Natal. Witnesses who have been testifying say they do not trust the police because some allegedly work with the hitmen and go as far as to supply them with guns. Meanwhile, Acting KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Major-General Bhekinkosi Langa has told the commission that violence at hostels has sometimes been sparked by arguments over bed space. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is at the hearings.
An application for a trial within a trail to challenge a statement made by a witness in the case of 14 men who have been charged with killing former local councillor and supply chain manager for the RDP housing project in Marikana, Petrus Sabata,has been dismissed in the North West High Court in Rustenburg. Sabata was hacked to death two years ago in Marikana, allegedly over RDP house allocations. A man who has turned state witness told the court yesterday that the suspects were not the only ones who were involved in the killing. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is following the story.
The Indian government is yet to receive formal communication from South Africa, notifying them that the require their assistance in arresting and extraditing the Gupta family members who are being sought by the Hawks. One of the brothers Ajay, has been declared a fugutive after he failed to appear in court last week following an agreement with his lawyers that he will hand himself over. India and South Africa do have a treaty. Ajay Gupta has been seen by locals in his home town attending a religious function.Stephen Kirker spoke to FSN reporter Neha Poonia in India.
Eskom's Head of Generation Matshela Koko will no longer face a disciplinary hearing after he resigned from his position this morning. Koko was to set to appear before the disciplinary committee in Sandton north of Johannesburg today. The controversial Koko is being accused of being responsible for the bad state of affairs at Eskom. He spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed with costs the Public Protector's ABSA and Reserve Bank report and its recommendations. The Reserve Bank‚ the Minister of Finance and Absa bank were seeking to have public protector's report into this matter‚ or findings in the report‚ set aside. The case relates to an Apartheid-era bailout of Bankorp in which the Reserve Bank effectively extended R1.1bn to the ailing bank in the form of a structured transaction. Our reporter Neo Makwiting was in court.
Free State Sports MEC Mathabo Leeto and Bloemwater CEO Dr. Limakatso Moorosi have appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court. They face corruption charges relating to the alleged irregular awarding of tenders dating back to 2013. At the time of the alleged offences Leeto, who was one of the front runners to replace Premier Ace Magashule as Free State ANC chairperson, was still the executive mayor of Matjhabeng municipality in Welkom. However, Moorosi says she does not know what charges she faces.
Members of the media were barred from entering a Blomefontein Regional Court room this morning where seven suspects, including one of the Gupta-brothers and Free State Agriculture Department Head are appearing. Five suspects were arrested during the raid of the Gupta-linked properties in Johannesburg yesterday. The other two suspects handed themselves over this morning. The Hawks say the raids are just the start of a larger operation targeting those allegedly involved in fraud, corruption, theft and money laundering which is believed to be linked to state capture and irregularities at the Estina dairy farm in Vrede in the Free State. Our reporter Ishmael Modiba was there and he spoke to Stephem Kirker.
Zimbabwean Pastor and political activist Evan Mawarire says he hopes that the death of MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai will unite the party. Tsvangirai died in a Johannesburg hospital yesterday after a long battle with colon cancer. He was former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe's critic and fought hard to remove him from office by ballot. Stephen Kirker spoke to Pastor Mawarira who himself came under brutal attack by police under Mugabe's rule
The ANC caucus is Parliament has decided to join the opposition EFF's Motion of no confidence against President Zuma. That is if he does not resign by midnight. The motion is set for tomorrow. The ANC NEC announced yesterday that it has recalled him. ANC Treasurer-General Paul Mashatile and the party's Chief Whip Jackson Mthembu addressed the media this afternoon in Parliament.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks, have arrested three people following a raid conducted at the Gupta mansion in Saxonwold, north of Johannesburg this morning. The Hawks say this is part of the probe into state capture. Street around the house were cordoned off. The Gupta family is being accused of siffoning money from the state illegally and of having an influence over government ministers. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporter, Sashin Naidoo
EFF has extended its deadline for the Speaker of Parliament to respond to its request for the date of the Motion of No Confidence in President Jacob Zuma to be moved forward. This following reports that Zuma has received a letter from the ANC's top six warning him that he will be recalled if he does not resign. Stephen Kirker spoke to Parliamentary Correpondent Mercedes Besent
President Jacob Zuma has apparently received a letter from the ANC's top six warning him that he will be recalled if he does not resign. Senior ANC officials including party president Cyril Ramaphosa have been holding talks with Zuma to try and persuade him to step down but he has reportedly told them that he will not leave office voluntarily. Now the ANC's secretary general, Ace Magashule and his deputy, Jessie Duarte, are understood to have gone to Zuma's official residence in Pretoria to deliver a formal letter informing him that he is being recalled. Stephen Kirker spoke to Director of the Centre for Constitutional Rights, Phephelaphi Dube
Security has been beefed up at the Rustenburg Magistrate's Court in North West where fourteen Nigerian nationals are appearing for bail application. The suspects were arrested after storming inside the local police station seeking protection. The local community suspected them of dealing in drugs and brothels. The 14 suspects are facing a charge of public violence and illegal gathering. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporter Zeblon Maine.....
The ANC's top brass are ready to hold another round of talks in the hope of clinching a deal which will pave the way for President Jacob Zuma's voluntary resignations. According to sources close to the officials, ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa will meet with Zuma at his official residence of Mahlamba Ndlovu to finalise terms of Zuma's exit package. Overnight media reports said Zuma's demand that he be granted immunity from prosecutions was rejected. This comes as opposition parties mobilise their members and the public for a national shutdown and the debate of a motion of no confidence in Zuma early next week. The current political impasse has caused anxiety among South Africans. Our presenter Stephen Kirker probed ANC National spokesperson, Pule Mabe on these developments.
The Public Protector has released a report which shows that there were irregularities during the procurement process of the Estina Farm Dairy Project in the Free State. The report states that there was gross negligence. It is alleged that the controversial project which was meant to benefit poor farmers, was used as a front that saw millions of rands being transferred to the bank accounts of the Gupta brothers. Just last month, the Assets Forfeiture Unit took over the farm in a search of evidence. Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane spoke to Stephen Kirker about the findings of the report.
The Hate Crimes Working Group says it is unsettling that hate crimes continue to be perpetuated by communities and those in institutions that should be helping them. This information is contained in a five-year report by the organisation. It says NGOs and other organisations are playing a vital role in sheltering the vulnerable. For more on this we are joined on the line by Research Professor at Unisa Juan Nel who is also lead researcher in the Steering Committee of the National Working Group.
There was an increase in government participation with investors and business people at the 2018 mining Indaba conference. According to the organisers, the conference saw an increase in investors across the globe. They say this is a clear indication that investors are willing to come back and do business on the African continent. Meanwhile mining companies are closer to finalising an agreement to compensate victims of silicosis and other lung diseases caused through mining. Alan Fine is the spokesperson for the Occupational Lung Diseases working group, which was established to negotiate a compensate victims of silicosis and other lung diseases caused through mining. Alan Fine is the spokesperson for the Occupational Lung Diseases working group, which was established to negotiate a settlement. He spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
An eyewitness to the shooting of a 22-year old man in Qwaqwa in the Free State during a protest, insists that he was killed by the police. Police say they will not speculate and have referred the matter to the Independent Police Directorate (IPID) for an investigation. Residents have, for almost a week, been looting local shops and burning tyres in protest against the mayor of the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Vusi Tshabalala, whothey say is failing to deal with water supply cuts and power outages. Stephen Kirker SABC reporter, Thabiso Radebe and Brigadier, Motantsi Makhele
The situation remains volatile iQwaQwa in the Free State after the shooting of a 22-year old man during a protest. An eyewitness insists that he was killed by the police. Police say they will not speculate and have referred the matter to the Independent Police Directorate (IPID) for an investigation. Residents have, for almost a week, been looting local shops and burning tyres in protest against the mayor of the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Vusi Tshabalala, whom they say is failing to deal with water supply cuts and power outages. Our reporter Thabiso Radebe gave us an update.
South Africa cannot simply deport asylum seekers that may face persecution in their home countries, because it has a constitution that prioritises human rights. That's the argument advanced by the lawyer for Serbian fugitive and convicted murderer, Dobrosav Gavric. Gavric was in the Constitutional Court yesterday to challenge the decision by the Refugee Status Determination Officer to refuse him refugee status. That decision was affirmed by the Cape Town High Court. He faces a 35-year jail term in Serbia after he was convicted of murdering that country's paramilitary leader Zelko Raznatovic and his two bodyguards in 2001. Gavric then fled to South Africa under a false identity. Wisani Makhubele is on that story.
Violent protests errupted outside the Rustenburg Magistrate's Court in the North West, during the bail application of 14 foreign nationals, accused of storming the local police station, disrupting proceedings and assaulting locals, last month. Residents, led by taxi-drivers, also forced the nearby businesses to close in support of the protest. The 14 accused, who are alleged to be in the country illegally, are accused by locals of running brothels and drug dens in the city. Lucas Mothibedi was there.
The Chamber of Mines says it is determined to continue with its court case this Friday against the Department of Mineral Resources even if the department gets a new minister. It says it remains displeased with the revised mining charter and wants it to be scrapped and redrafted. This morning the Economic Justice Network, organisers of the Alternative Mining Indaba, led a march to the ICC in Cape Town, where day three of the Mining Indaba itself is taking place. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to EJN Executive Director, the Reverend Malcolm Damon
Limpopo education department has confirmed that more than twenty learners from Tenyane Secondary School at Mamaone village in the Sekhukhune area of Limpopo have been hospitalised after complaining of stomach cramps. This is a second incident to take place in the area in less than a month. About 137 learners from Bosele special school were hospitalised after consuming suspected poisoned water. Our reporter Witness Tiva is on the story and he spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Health experts have still been unable to locate the source of the Listeriosis outbreak which has claimed more than 100 lives. The number was at 81 just less than a month ago. Most of the 852 known cases have been reported in the Gauteng province. The unknown source of the outbreak and the constant movement of people is making it difficult for authorities to contain the deadly disease. Stephen Kirker spoke to the Head of the Centre for Enteric Diseases at the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, Dr. Juno Thomas.
Trade union, Solidarity, has laid criminal charges of fraud, corruption and money laundering against former Eskom CEO, Brian Molefe, and ex-chairperson of the power utility's board, Ben Ngubane. Solidarity chief executive, Dirk Hermann, says the charges relate to the 30 million rand pay-out in pension funds Molefe was supposed to have received, when he left Eskom. The Pretoria High Court recently ruled that Molefe must return the 11 million rand he had already received from Eskom. Liela Magnus has the following report.
Political Analyst Dumisani Hlophe says the ANC has shot itself in the foot by not acting firmly on the issue of recalling president Jacob Zuma. He says this is an indication that the party is unable to govern itself. The ANC has been holding meetings after meetings trying to persuade Zuma to step down but he is apparently digging in his heels. Hlophe spoke to Stephen Kirker.
The Independent Electoral Commission is encouraging all eligible voters to visit their voting district centres to update their addresses and those not registered to register. The IEC has embarked on a voter registration campaign to implement the constitutional court ruling in which the commission was ordered to ensure that all voters' addresses are captured. IEC Vice-Chairperson Terry Tselane gave our presenter Stephen Kirker about the latest
The Limpopo department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has summoned the Mayor, Speaker and the Chief whip of the ANC-run Maruleng Municipality in Hoedspruit to his office tomorrow. This follows a two-week shutdown. Opposition parties are accusing the Municipal Manager Johannes Lethole of having increased his salary without approval from COGTA. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Witness Tiva.
Zulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini has warned that his people will vigorously defend their land against those who think they can easily expropriate it. His Majesty addressed the Democratic Alliance delegation led by party leader Mmusi Maimane at Osuthu palace in KwaNongoma north of KwaZulu-Natal. This was the maiden visit by the DA to his Majesty. Nonkululeko Hlophe reports...
Today, marks two years since the Lily mine disaster struck, leaving three mine workers trapped underground at Louville in Mpumalanga. Trade union, the Association for Mineworkers and Construction Union- AMCU- will hold a commemorative event at Lily mine in remembrance of that tragic day. Eric Lubisi has more...
EFF leader Julius Malema says they are considering going to court to seek an urgent interdict to stop President Jacob Zuma from delivering the State-of-the-Nation-Address on Thursday. Malema was speaking at a media briefing in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on the outcomes of the party's annual planning meeting.
Chaos erupted outside Luthuli House this morning after BLF members arrived. ANC supporters engaged in a confrontation with BLF members as they told them to go away as they are not welcome at Luthuli House and they were an opposition to the party. Meanwhile ANC communications manager Khusela Diko says they did not receive any formal notification of any marches to Luthuli House and there is no crisis in the party. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC Political Reporter Mbali Sibanyoni who was at outside Luthuli House
Recovery in the mining sector in the country is expected to continue in 2018 due to rise in commodity prices supported by renewed investment for the sector. South Africa's minister of mineral and resources Mosebenzi Zwane says the mining sector in 2017 continued to strengthen and this will continue within the short to medium term into 2018. The minister was speaking at the officail opening of the 2018 mining Indaba conference underway in Cape Town. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC senior economics journalist, Amina Accram and Chamber of Mines CEO, Roger Baxter...
The passenger rail agency, PRASA says more DNA tests will be conducted to match the remains with the samples of the families of those who perished in a train crash between Kroonstad and Hennenman in the Free State last month. PRASA are expected to make major announcements in Durban today following incidents in which two passenger trains were set alight in the city last night. Angry commuters set alight three coaches at Berea Train Station and one carriage was burnt at Main Durban Station. The commuters were apparently unhappy with train delays which were caused by power failure. PRASA's Group Chief Strategy Officer Dr Sipho Sithole spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Seven vehicles that include water tankers and refuse removal trucks belonging to Madibeng Local Municipality in Brits in North West have been confiscated. This is after the municipality allegedly failed to settle its debts of more than three-million-rand with local service providers. They include a law firm and a tyre manufacturing company. Madibeng Municipality Spokesperson Tumelo Tshabalala gave our presenter Stephen Kirker an update on the matter.
Residents in Hoedspruit, Limpopo have expressed frustration over the lack of services after a protest by opposition parties left municipal offices closed. The EFF, DA and Civic Warriors of Maruleng councillors were protesting against the alleged misconduct of the municipal manager Johannes Lethole. They are accusing him of not implementing council resolutions and also increasing his salary without the approval of the council. The two-week shutdown of services has left some parts of the tourist town without water and waste piling up in the streets. Our reporter Witness Tiva is on the story.
The State of the Nation Address (SONA) will be taking place next week as planned. This has been confirmed by Parliament during a media briefing in Cape Town this morning. This comes as Opposition parties call for the postponement of the event until Zuma has been removed. The ANC has come out publicly to say that Zuma's removal is being discussed by the party. Speaker of the National Council of Provinces Thandi Modise says Parliament has no power to tell Zuma not to address the National Assembly.
The judge overseeing the civil case launched against the Department of Education by the parents of five-year-old learner Michael komape who died in a pit toilet at his school in Limpopo, says he is worried about the precedence that this case may set. Lawyers for both parties have been presenting their closing arguments today at the High Court in Polokwane. Komape died in 2014. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere is following the story.
The Democratic Alliance says it has written to National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete to request that the State of the Nation Address be postponed. The party's leader, Mmusi Maimane says Mbete must allow the postponement and allow Parliament to elect a new President to lead South Africa. The SONA is scheduled for the 8th of February. Maimane says it is not in the best interest of the country to let President Jacob Zuma deliver the address. The DA's call echoes that of the EFF for Mbete to convene an urgent meeting with party leaders. This comes after the EFF won a Constitutional Court case against President Zuma in relation to his fitness to hold office. The EFF says establishing the suitability of Zuma is now more urgent now than the delivery of the SONA. Meanwhile the ANC says the motion is unlikely to succeed if tabled. Stephen Kirker spoke to political analyst Sanusha Naidoo.
Public Enterprises Deputy Minister Ben Martins has confirmed meeting with former PRASA CEO Lucky Montana and the Guptas. Martins is appearing before the Eskom Parliamentary inquiry. He, however, says suspended Eskom head of legal services Susan Daniels' version of events related to the meeting with the controversial family are not consistent. When Daniels appeared before the inquiry in November last year, she alleged that she was at meeting with Martins, Ajay Gupta, Duduzane Zuma and another Gupta associate Salim Issa in July 2017. Martins says he was at a funeral of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa's spokesperson Ronnie Mamoepa and that he later attended an ANC Lekgotla in Irene, Pretoria.
Global retail giant, Steinhoff says it has reported former CEO Markus Jooste to the Hawks. Steinhoff says Deloitte is compiling consolidated statements for it. Jooste resigned last year amid an investigation into accounting irregularities. He is reported to be among four employees that German prosecutors are investigating in connection with a 2015 case tied to possible accounting fraud. Steinhoff Acting Chairwoman Heather Sonn made presentation to Parliament today
The Mayor of the DA-EFF run Modimolle-Mokgoopong municipality in Limpopo says the amalgamation of the two municipalities has created financial problems for them. Marlien Van Staden was speaking to our presenter Stephen Kirker. The two municipalities were bankrupt before they were merged following the 2016 local government elections. The municipality's employees have embarked on a go-slow after failure to pay them.
Gauteng MEC for Finance Barbara Creecy has told the Life Esidimeni Arbitration hearing sitting in Parktown Johannesburg, that there was more than enough money to care for mental patients at Life Esidimeni. Former provincial Health Department MEC Qedani Mahlangu testified last week that they had to remove hundreds of mental patients because she was under pressure to cut costs. The directive had apparently come from Treasury but Creecy says there was an increase in the allocation of funds for the department since the 2014 financial year until present.
Experts say there is no need to panic over the fungal disease known as Emergomyces Africanus initially detected in the Western Cape. The department of Infectious diseases at Groote Schuur hospital says, while the fungal disease may be deadly it mainly affects a severely compromised immune system. For now experts believe that the disease is airborne and therefore acquired by inhalation. Thandiswa Mawu put this report together.
There is a strong police present outside the ANC provincial headquarters in Durban, KwaZulu Natal where one faction of the party is set to hand over a memorandum which raises concerns about how the new task team is constituted. They say many of its members are from the suspended Provincial Executive Committee. The task team has been appointed to oversee the election of new provincial leadership. Our reporter Fanele Mhlongo is attending the march and she spoke to Stephen Kirker.
A probe into the reasons why the school principal who was caught having sex with learners at a high school in Ekurhuleni in Gauteng , is underway. The principal is said to have resigned in October last year. MEC Panyaza Lesufi has told our presenter Stephen Kirker that the department’s Human Resources Department is checking records.
Public Order Police have fired rubber bullets at protestors in the area of Phaphazela outside Malamulele in Limpopo. The residents are up in arms over the construction of a tarred road. They say that the Roads Agency and the Public Works Department promised that they would attend to their concern but never did. As a result of the protest learning at eight schools has been disrupted. Our reporter Witness Tiva is on the story and he spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu says she is being harrased. She was speaking at the Esidimeni Arbitration hearings in Parktown this morning about her role in the Life Esidimeni Marathon Project which left 143 mentally ill patients dead. Mahlangu has been questioned on why she engaged NGOs that were concerned about the project through lawyers and not directly through the department. She says she felt that the organisations were not acting in good faith. Mahlangu who has been insisting that she acted based on the information provided by her officials says she does not know why those senior managers are alleging that she was at the forefront of the project and that she bullied them...
Yet another senior ANC official in KwaZulu-Natal has been shot dead. Sifiso Mlambo was a branch secretary at eMpembeni near eSikhaleni in Richards Bay on the north coast. Mlambo was attacked by unknown assailants while on his way home last night. His death follows that of ANC councillor in Jozini, Njabulo Dlamini also in Richards Bay on New Year's day. Our reporter Vusi Khumalo is on the story and he spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Executives at Passenger rail agency PRASA are meeting in Bontehuewel in Cape Town to address the ongoing problems on Metrorail trains and the continued closure of the central line into the city. Just last night, four train coaches used for network inspection purposes derailed. This incident follows train accidents in Germiston, where 19 people died, the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga in recent weeks.
Basic Education minister, Angie Motshekga has condemned acts of violence that took place at Overvaal Hoerskool in Vereeniging in the Vaal rand and at other schools across the country. Minister Motshekga has urged people to refrain from using violence and putting the lives of learners at risk. Meanwhile, protesting EFF and ANC members are gathered outside the Hoerskool Overvaal, threatening to close it down. They are intensifying their protest which started yesterday over a court ruling stating that the Afrikaans medium school did not have to take in 55 English speaking learners as other schools nearby could accommodate them. There's a standoff between the protesters and police near the gate of the school. Some protesters had this to say.
Train union Nehawu says another strike is looming at Wits University and at the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The parties have been in discussions and the union expects a response from NSFAS management on Friday. Its members have embarked on a strike at the University of South Africa (UNISA) and the Durban University of Technology. Nehawu spokesperson Khaya Xaba engaged with our presenter Stephen Kirker on this matter.
There's been another train collision early this morning in Ermelo in Mpumalanga. Two trains reportedly collided at low speed at a depot. At least four people were hurt. This is the 3rd accident within a space of two weeks, with one resulting in the death of 19 people when a Shosholoza Meyl train collided with a truck before bursting into flames in the Free State two weeks ago. Transnet Spokesperson Michael Aspofovitz gave our presenter Stephen Kirker an update.
Three Pollsmoor prison officials and three offenders have sustained serious injuries in an attack in a cell this morning. Correctional Services Commissioner in the Western Cape, Delekile Klaas, says the injured officials were attempting to confiscate a cellphone from an prisoners when they threw boiling water on them. He spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The Independent police investigative directorate (IPID) has arrested an SAPS Captain on allegations of looting the funds of the Secret Service. The operative, who has not been named as he is yet to appear in court is alleged to have links to former acting national police commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane. Independent Police Investigative Directorate spokesperson Moses Dlamini spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
High praises and admiration were the order of the day as friends, colleagues, comrades and fellow literati paid tribute struggle stalwart and national poet laureate, Professor Keoraptse Kgositsile during his funeral service at Marks Park in Emmerentia in Johannesburg earlier today. One of such friends was Pallo Jordan, who remembered fondly the first time he met "bra Willie" as he was affectionately known.
The late Sindiso Magaqa's cousin Lwazi Magaqa has expressed doubt that the ANC firebrand died from his injuries. He was testifying before the Moerane Commission of Inquiry that is investigating political killings in KwaZulu Natal. Magaqa was an ANC councellor in the Umzimkhulu Municipality. He was shot by unknown people in July last year and he died in hospital in September. Our reporter Fanele Mhlongo attended today's proceedings.
The Krugersdorp Magistrates Court, west of Johannesburg has heard that the security guard arrested for allegedly shooting and killing a farm worker at Tarlton near Krugersdorp over a week ago, had fired eight shots. Forty-two year old Aaron Mutavhatsidi was employed as a tractor driver at Bartlet Poultry farm. He was shot dead for allegedly stealing the tractor. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to reporter Horisani Sithole
The Pretoria High Court will deliver judgment this afternoon on the Hoërskool Overvaal's urgent application to overturn the Gauteng Department of Education's decision to admit 55 English speaking learners to the school. The school's legal representative, Advocate Albert Lamey argued that Overvaal has reached its admission capacity and that it cannot accommodate more learners. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Professor of Education Policy at Wits School of Education Prof Brahm Fleisch.
The residents of Coligny in the North West are up in arms over poor service delivery in their town, with water being their main concern. They claim that the Ditsobotla Municipality is providing them with unhealthy water through water tanks. The residents also do not have proper toilets and are still using the bucket system. Our reporter Itumeleng Kgajane is on the story and he spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Circumstances surrounding the gruesome death of a cleaner whose body was discovered at the Department of Agriculture in Pretoria, have yet to be determined. The victim, 28-year old Regina Majola, went missing on the 21st of December 2017 and her body was found a week later when security guards went to investigate an unpleasant in the building. The Department of Agriculture's Director of Communications Services Steve Kgalane spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The Capricorn TVET College in Polokwane Limpopo says the stampede that happened this morning has forced them to suspend the registration of students for the 2018 academic year until further notice. Five people have been injured after thousands of applicants forcefully pushed the college's gates. They had been queuing overnight in a bid to make it to the front of the line. Our reporter Witness Tiva is on the story and he spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
It remains to be seen whether president Jacob Zuma will extend the terms of reference of the commission that will look at allegations of state capture. Zuma who has been implicated in the report by former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela, announced earlier this week that he will establish the commission led by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to legal expert Ulrich Roux from BDK Attorneys.
Metrorail in the Western Cape says it is in talks with the police over strategies to improve safety for commuters and staff on it's Khayelitsha-Kapteinsklip-Bishop Lavis line. This after a security guard was shot and killed at the Chris Hani station in Khayelitsha last night. 15 buses have been arranged to transport commuters. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Metrorail Western Cape Spokesperson Riana Scott.
The Emfuleni Municipality says water has been restored in most parts. Rand Water restricted water supply to the minimum allowed by the law after the municipality failed to pay its debt of over four hundred million rand. The residents did not have water from last week Friday. A delegation from Emfuleni staged a sit-in at the water utility's offices Johannesburg yesterday. Stephen Kirker spoke to the water utility's Acting Chief Operations Officer Solomon Mathebula.
The applications process of walk-in students at both the University of Limpopo and the University of Venda is so far running smoothly after chaos broke out at Univen yesterday. There were long queues of students wanting to secure places for the 2018 academic year. At Univen, students threatened violence when the system at the temporary center stopped functioning. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Takalani Dzaga from the University of Venda.
The Department of Agriculture in Gauteng says it will be looking into claims that the police prevented an ambulance from going to the scene of a shooting in Tarlton, Krugersdorp on the West Rand. Aaron Mutavhatsidi was allegedly shot and killed by a security guard on a farm in the area. Circumstances around the incident are still unclear. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Gauteng MEC for Agriculture Lebogang Maile who visited the deceased's family today.
The Protea Glen Crisis Committee in Soweto, is set to have a meeting this afternoon with stakeholders in the housing crisis to map a way forward. Over 60 houses were badly damaged by a devastating hail storm that hit the area recently. Some houses have been totally destroyed while others had their roofs blown off and perimeter walls collapsed. Protea Glen Crisis Committee member Phelelani Sindane spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The listeriosis death toll has risen to 61 since the outbreak was announced in early December last year. Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria this morning, Health Minster Aaron Motsoaledi said Gauteng still has the most cases reported, with 442 out of the 727 confirmed cases. The Western Cape was second with 92 confirmed cases. Minister Motsoaledi spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The Vaal University of Technology has denied that it is allowing walk-in students to register at its campuses. The EFF Student command has announced that it reached an agreement with the university over the weekend that will see students who did not apply online being assisted by the institution. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to the Secretary General of the EFF Student Command's national office Rendani Nematswarani.
The High Court in Cape Town has indefinitely postponed the case lodged by ABSA Investec against Mayfair Speculators, seeking its provisional liquidation. The company is an offshoot of Steinhoff International through its former director Markus Jooste's Mayfair and just a week before news leaked of Steinhoff's accounting irregularities, it transferred one and half billion Rand to its holding company. The debt that Mayfair had with ABSA, Investec and Sanlam's Capital market arm was backed by its shares in Steinhoff. Now that the shares have collapsed the banks want their money back. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Ryk Van Niekerk, Moneweb editor to get some backround on Mayfair.
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies has condenmed the decision by the ANC to immediately and unconditionally downgrade the South African embassy in Israel. In its resolution the ANC said this decision will allow it to give its practical expression of support to the oppressed people of Palestine. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to SAJBD's President, Zev Krengel.
The Senzo Mchunu faction of the ANC in KwaZulu Natal has vowed to remove the current Provincial Executive Committee from office on its return to Durban today. PEC members were attending the ANC's 54th National Conference in Johannesburg for the past five days.This comes after the Pietermaritzburg High Court upheld the nullification of the 2015 KZN ANC elective conference last week. However, the court also granted the provincial PEC leave to appeal the decision. ANC-KZN Spokesperson Mdumiseni Ntuli spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The NGO Sex Workers Education and Advocacy Taskforce (SWEAT) has welcomed a stance by the ANC supporting the decriminalisation of sex work. The party's Human Settlement Portfolio Committee Chairperson Nocawe Mafu, made the announcement yesterday during the last day of the ANC's 54th National Conference held in Nasrec, Johannesburg. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to SWEAT's Advocacy and Law Reform Programme Manager Ishtar Lakhani.
The National Consumer Commission has warned shoppers to be cautious when buying goods on special at this time of the year. The warning comes as some people rush to do their last minute shopping ahead of Christmas day which is less than a week away. The NCC says some consumers do not read or ask important questions when buying goods and services during this time of the year. The Deputy Commissioner of the National Consumer Commission is Thezi Mabuza. Stephen Kirker spoke to her and started by asking whether the commission finds itself a lot busier in January as a result of ill-considered purchases
Today is the deadline for Cape Town Mayor, Patricia de Lille to explain why she should not resign from the Democratic Alliance. De Lille has revealed that she will take legal action if the DA removes her. She says she is busy compiling submissions to the DA's federal executive regarding the allegations leveled against her. De Lille says the DA has furnished her with reasons for her suspension, however, she feels the move is unwarranted. Stephen Kirker spoke to political analyst, Daniel Silke about tensions between the DA and Patricia de Lille.
Outgoing ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe has delivered his final media briefing as Secretary-General of the the party. This comes as the organisation holds its national conference at the Nasrec Expo Centre south of Johannesburg. New party leadership is expected to be announced this afternoon. Mantashe says he takes some responsibility for some things that have gone wrong in the ANC. Meanwhile, outgoing Treasurer-General Zweli Mkhize declined nomination for the ANC's top job yesterday, leaving Cyril Ramaphosa and Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma to battle it out. Mkhize says he did this in effort reduce divisions and promote unity within the organisation.
39 ANC members from the Bojanala region have won a court application that sought to have a September regional conference nullified. The ruling was delivered by Judge President Monica Leeuw of the North West High Court this morning.
President Jacob Zuma is appealing the decision of the North Gauteng High Court nullifying the appointment of National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams. The court ruled last week that Abrahams was not supposed to be given the job after Mxolisi Nxasana left his job under a cloud. Abrahams is being accused of shielding Zuma from the 783 corruption charges he faces. The court ordered that deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa appoint a new NDPP within 60 days because Zuma is conflicted. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Kgomotso Moshikaro, a lecturer at the University of Cape Town's Faculty of Law.
The increasing gap between the poor and the rich has been identified as one of the biggest stumbling blocks to reconciliation in South Africa. This is according to the 2017 SA Reconciliation Barometer conducted by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation. The study is a public opinion survey conducted by the Institute since 2003. The surveys shows that 44% of South Africans feel that they and their relatives have experienced reconciliation. Project Officer at the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation's Inclusive Economies Project Tiaan Meiring gave us more insight when he spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The defence in the assault trial of a self proclaimed prophet who allegedly sprayed insecticide, Doom on congregants, has objected to the admission of a can of doom into evidence. Lethebo Rabalago is facing five assault charges for an incident that allegedly happened in November last year during a church service in Mookgophong. He also faces charges that relate to the use of a agricultural product in a manner it is not intended for and of publishing false advertisements. Our reporter Pimani Baloyi is on the story.
At least 300 people have been displaced and 50 others left injured after a tornado hit the Vaal Marina area in Midvaal, Gauteng yesterday causing extensive damage. Homes and other buildings were destroyed. Two help centres have been set-up by the Midvaal municipality to assist those who have lost everything. Rebuilding and Clean-up operations are currently underway. Stephen Kirker spoke to Dr Elias Sithole, the Head of the Disaster Management Centre in Gauteng.
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that the termination of former National Director of Public Prosecutions Mxolisi Nxasana is unconstitutional and advocate Shauwn Abrahans' appointment is invalid and has been set it aside. President Jacob Zuma has been ordered not to be involved in the appoitment of the NDPP because he is conflicted over the 783 corruption charges that have been hanging over his head for years. His deputy will take over this responsibility. The order was made when judge Dustin Mlambo was ruling on the settlement agreement between Zuma, the minister of Justice and former National Director of Public Prosecutions Mxolisi Nxasana which the bench has declared invalid and has set it aside. The application was brought by civil rights groups Freedom Under Law, Corruption Watch and CASAC who sought to have the payment of a R17 million golden handshake paid to Nxasana by the president in 2015 declared unlawful. Judge Mlambo gives the judgement.
Britain and the European Union have reached a deal on the Brexit which paves the way for second phase, which is trade talks. British Prime Minister, Theresa May during her announcement speech, gave the assurance that there will be no "hard border" in Ireland and that EU citizens in the UK, and UK citizens in the EU, will have their rights protected.
It was an emotional ending to the Life Esidimeni hearings sitting in Parktown, Johannesburg for this year. Families, journalists as well former Deputy Chief Justice, Dikgang Moseneke became emotional when suspended Gauteng health department HOD, Barney Selebano gave his closing statement. Selebano asked to stand and bow before the families and ask for forgiveness. This caused the families of the deceased and others in the audience to break down.
Dr Selebano says the Gauteng Health Department was short of almost 3.5 billion and further accepted that the decision they took to move patients harmed them
Dr Selebano says the Gauteng Premier knew about the movement of mental health patients from Life Esidimeni. He says the premier was concerned about loss of lives and jobs
Investment Expert Wayne McCurrie says shere is a lot of uncertainty in Steinhoff over ownership and the alleged profits inflation for one to be able to tell whether things can get worse. Management lied to shareholders about the real financial situation at Steinhoff
Former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke had to intervene when the lawyer of the suspended head of the Gauteng Health Department Dr. Barney Selebano tried to shield him from answering some questions during his cross examination today. Selebano started testifying yesterday after his court bid to avoid appearing before the arbitration hearing failed on Monday. He says the move which led to the death of 143 patients at NGOs around the country was a "Revenue Enhancement Programme".
Political Analyst from UNISA Professor Lesiba Teffo says the coalition led by the DA in various municipalities have been fairly successful despite the problems encountered since the agreements were reached. Teffo spoke as the partners briefed the media in Johannesburg about their achievements and challenges they encountered in the past year. They have told the media that it has not always been smooth sailing but that they are forging ahead. Relations between coalition partners have been particularly strained in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro where the Mayor of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Athol Trollip and his former deputy from the UDM Mongameli Bobani, were at each other's throats following allegations that Bobani voted with the ANC. He was subsequently removed from his position in August after a vote of no confidence against him. Teffo has told our presenter Stephen Kirker that the coalition is important.
The Public Service Commission has raised a concern about the high number of vacancies in the public service. The Commission briefed the media on it's quarterly report for the period July to September 2017 in Pretoria today. It has revealed that 55% of the available jobs are at the administrative and operational level. The Commission says this is alarming because service delivery is affected as these public servants service the public directly. Stephen Kirker spoke to the Commissioner of the Public Service Commission Michael Seloane.
The highly anticipated testimony of suspended Gauteng Health HOD Dr Barney Selebano in the Life Esidimeni hearings is underway. Led by evidence leader, Patrick Ngutshana, Selebano maintains that financial constraints were the main reason for the termination of the Life Esidimeni contract, stating that the department "had to do more with little money." Selebano says after hearing that 36 people had died at NGOs around August 2016, he "ran around the province" to personally close the NGOs.
Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini- Zuma's nominations in KwaZulu Natal have increased to 454 while ANC deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa's have decreased to 191 after the numbers were verified today. A mistake was made by the electoral commission yesterday and it was the ANCYL in the province that raised the alarm during the Provincial General Council. Elections Urgency Director Bontle Mphakanye explained the discrepancy.
The National Health Department and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases have confirmed that 60 percent of the reported cases of the food-bourne disease listeriosis, have been reported in Gauteng. The disease has so far claimed 36 lives and authorities say 557 cases were reported across the nation. It is caused by contaminated food. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Dr. Juno Thomas, a Pathologist and the Head of the Centre for Enteric Diseases at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.
The president of the Black Business Council Dr. Danisa Baloyi has been suspended from the organisation pending an investigation into the missing R5million donation from the Airports Company South Africa. The donation did not make it into the account of the BBC which has since enlisted the services of auditing firm SizweNtsalubaGobodo so that it can establish what happened. ACSA has confirmed that the donation was made. BBC Secretary-General George Sebulela spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Suspended Gauteng Health Head of Department Dr Barney Selebano's application for leave to appeal against the subpoena forcing him to testify before the Life Esidimeni arbitration hearing, has been dismissed with costs. Selebano's urgent interdict was earlier rejected by the South Gauteng High Court. Selebano is refusing to appear before the arbitration hearing saying he has already given evidence to the Health Ombudsman Professor Malegapuru Makgoba. Here is part of the judgement.
An affidavit allegedly submitted by the ANC's Eastern Cape 11 withdrawing their court action, came under scrutiny today in the Port Elizabeth High Court. The applicants are challenging the legitimacy of the document which emerged during their court action against the Provincial Executive Committee led by Oscar Mabuyane. They are arguing that the PEC was elected without a quorum and correct credentials. Our reporter Mcebisi Ngqina is on the story and he spoke to Stephen Kirker our presenter.
The registration process in the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial General Council has proceeded without any hiccups. The council is expected to finalise its nomination lists over the next two days in Durban and discuss policy issues as the 16 December date of the National Conference to be held in Johannesburg edges closer. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is on the story and she spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The IEC says there will be no re-run of the by-elections in the Metsimaholo Municipality in the Free State in any of the wards. This after reports that there might be a re-run in Zamdela. There were allegations of irregularities during Wednesday's election with the major concern being the use of more than two ballots per voter. The IEC is expected to release the final results this afternoon says Senior Manager-Electoral Matters, Granville Abrahams.
Nompilo Nkosi, the family member of one of the survivors in the Esidimeni tragedy, Sizwe Nkosi, who suffers from autism, and was moved to Cullinan centre in 2016 has testified that she wrote letters to the offices of the President, the Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi and organised multiple protests to the department of health's office in an effort to prevent patients from being moved from Esidimeni. Nkosi who was being taken through an open letter that she sent to the Minister of Health.
Scores of ANC Women's League arrived at the Vanderbijl Magistrates Court in the Vaal where the former mayor of Emfuleni, Simon Mofokeng was appearing for alleged sexual grooming of a 14-year old girl. Our reporter Jamaine Krige was there and gives us the twists and scene's of what the day held....
Uhuru Kenyatta has been sworn in for a second term as Kenya's President today after his controversial re-election in a court-enforced second presidential election that was boycotted by the main opposition candidate Raila Odinga. Our reporter Sarah Kimani gives us the latest events taking place in Kenya and at the Kasarani Stadium...
Parliament's Committee on Public Enterprises members will meet on Wednesday to finalise the list of names of people who will be subpoenaed to testify. The committee is investigating allegations of state capture within power utility Eskom. President Jacob Zuma, his son Duduzane, some members of the controversial Gupta family as well as former SAA board chairperson Dudu Myeni have been implicated by former Eskom board chairperson Zola Tsotsi who testified before the committee last week. The committee is also looking into the security of its members following threats against some MP. Stephen Kirker spoke to Acting Chairperson of the Committee Zukiswa Rantho.
The Department of Water and Sanitation says it will do its best to ensure that consumers are not affected by the water cuts that will be imposed on municipalities that are not paying for the bulk water supplied to them. Minister Nomvula Mokonyane was briefing the media in Johannesburg this morning. She says municipalities owe the department and water boards a total of R107 billion, and that this impacts on the department's ability to do its own job. The minister spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Bodies at the Themba Hospital mortuary in Mbombela have started decomposing after refrigerators broke down. Authorities are now forced to store two bodies in one fridge. Our reporter, Mthobisi Mkhaliphi is following the story and he spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Port Elizabeth businessman and convicted murderer, Christopher Panayiotou has been sentenced to life in prison in the the High Court in Port Elizabeth today. His accomplice Sinethema Nenembe was also sentenced to life while Zolani Sibeko received 15 years. Jayde Panayiotou was murdered in April 2015. Judge Daylen Chetty, was scathing in his assessment of Panayiotou and Nenembe during the sentencing proceedings.
Emmerson Mnangagwa is now officially the president of Zimbabwe. Thousands of Zimbabweans turned up at the National Sports Stadium to witness his swearing-in by Chief Justice of Zimbabwe Luke Malaba. Mnangagwa takes over after a 37-year rule by Robert Mugabe who resigned last week, days after a military takeover which the army has been reluctant to describe as a coup. Mnangagwa says he will always make decisions based on what is best for Zimbabwe.
Convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius will be spending thirteen more years in prison. The ruling was made by the Supreme Court of Appeal this morning. The prosecution wanted the court to overturn a six year sentence that had been imposed by the high court in Pretoria. Pistorius was convicted for the murder of his then girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013. Justice Jeremiah Shongwe delivered the judgment.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal say they cannot rule out the possibility that the motive behind the murder of a KZN ANC leader is politically motivated. Sthembiso Mhlongo was shot at his home in Howick early this morning. He was the ANCYL's deputy secretary in the Moses Mabhida region. Mhlongo was shot inside his home and was taken hospital where he died. The killing comes after ANC activist Lungisani Mnguni was assassinated in Camperdown near Pietermaritzburg on Monday. Stephen Kirker spoke to reporter Mlondi Radebe.
Former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe has had to take the heat from all directions this week. First, he was grilled by MPs investigating allegations of state capture on Tuesday night. Today, trade union Solidarity and union federation SAFTU have made separate announcements that they are taking legal action against Molefe. Solidarity has revealed that Molefe was present at a board meeting which decided that he should receive a R30 million pension payout. SAFTU says if the Hawks do not take action against the executives of power utility Eskom, rail company Transnet and the controversial company Trillian they will go to court to force them to take action. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke first to Solidarity's Head of the Labour Court Department Anton van der Bijl and then engaged with SAFTU's Secretary-General Zwelinzima Vavi.
The man who is accused of sexually molesting learners at Riversand primary school in Diepsloot, north-west of Johannesburg, is yet to be arrested. The man who is said to be staying at a plot near the school allegedly paid the children to perform sexual acts on him. It has emerged that the school's management knew about this but failed to inform the police or the Gauteng Education Department. Now the management will face disciplinary action. In a major case that came to light last month and shocked the nation, a 57-year old man was arrested on charges of sexually assaulting 87 learners at AB Xuma in Orlando East. Gautengf Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi visited Riversand primary school this morning to find out what happened. He spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Suspended Gauteng Mental Health Director, Dr. Makgabo Manamela's medical certificate has been submitted to the Life Eisidmeni hearings to prove that she had indeed consulted a doctor yesterday because she was not feel well. The doctor's note was however only forwarded by email this morning, and not by close of business yesterday as her legal representative had promised. Evidence leader Patrick Ngutshana read the doctors note.
Zimbabwean nationals at the Beitbridge border post near Musina in Limpopo have had mixed reactions to President Robert Mugabe's resignation. While others are celebrating the demise of Mugabe, some say the only solution to the problem is national elections. The replacement of Mugabe by the former Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa is also not viewed as a solution. Mnangagwa is expected to be inaugurated on Friday. Rudzani Tshivhase was at the border.
In an interesting turn of events it has emerged that it was former SAA chairperson Dudu Myeni who said that three Eskom executives should be suspended. These were Tshediso Matona, Dan Marokane and Matshela Koko who were subsequently instructed to stay at home while an investigation was taking place in 2015. Former Eskom board chairperson Zola Tsotsi revealed this in his statement before the Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises, which is looking into allegations of state capture at the power untility. Tsotsi says the discussion took place at the presidential home in Durban.
The case of eleven ANC members that are challenging the legitimacy of the Eastern Cape Provincial Executive committee has been postponed to the fourth of December. The matter sat briefly at the Grahamstown High court today where it emerged that there was an affidavit stating that the case was being withdrawn. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Mcebisi Nqina.
Hundreds of people have gathered near Zimbabwe's Parliament bulding in Harare ahead of the expected motion aimed at impeaching President Robert Mugabe. Residents are hopeful that this afternoon's sitting will lead to the removal of Mugabe from office. Meanwhile, the country's sacked Vice-President, Emmerson Mnangagwa has reportedly given Mugabe an ultimatum to co-operate with the armed forces and negotiate his resignation or he can be humiliated by a forced removal from office. In a statement he declined the invite to State House to meet with Mugabe in person - saying he doesn't feel safe and would require guaranteed protection before he returns to Zimbabwe. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Noma Bolani.
Former ESKOM CEO Brian Molefe is expected to testify before Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises this afternoon. The inquiry is looking into allegations of state capture. Meanwhile former ESKOM board member Venete Klein has told the committee that Molefe who was appointed as the CEO of the company during her tenure in 2015, was the best candidate at the time. Klein says Molefe turned things around within months of taking over in his acting position and has credited him with bringing load shedding under control.
There is no word yet on whether Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe has stepped down from his position as instructed by his ZANU-PF party. Mugabe was given until midday today. That country's war veterans have called for a mass protest across the country tomorrow. Meanwhile SA Defence Minister Mapisa-Ngqakula has reiterated that it is the Zimbabweans who should determine their own fate. She says no amount of intervention from SADC or any other body will change the situation in that country if the citizens are not involved. Mapisa-Ngqakula was speaking to SAfm Midday Live Senior Producer Nomalizo Mandela.
The Midday Live market update with Senior Portfolio Analyst at Ashburton Investments Wayne McCurrie.
Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe is attending graduation ceremony at University of Zimbabwe. It's his first public appearance since a military takeover in Zimbabwe. State TV earlier reported that a graduation ceremony at a university where Mugabe is the chancellor would proceed as planned today. The military says talks with Mugabe are continuing and there has been significant progress in the operation targeting what it called 'the criminals surrounding him'. Stephen Kirker spoke to the Director at risk management company Signal Risk, Ryan Cummings.
The mother of five year old Michael Komape who died after falling into a pit toilet at his school in Limpopo three years ago, is blaming herself for his death. This emerged during the testimony of a psychologist at the Limpopo High Court where a civil lawsuit against the Department of Basic Education is being heard. The family wants to be paid for their loss and grief. Our reporter Shibu Mamokgere spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Pre-sentencing arguments in the murder case of Christopher Panayiotou and his co-accused have been postponed to next week Thursday. In a brief sitting at the Port Elizabeth High Court, defence lawyer, Terry Price revealed that he was not ready and asked for a postponment which was granted by judge Dayalin Chetty. Panayiotou and his co-accused have been found guilty for the murder of Jayde Panayioutou outside Uitenhage in 2015. Our reporter, Mcebisi Ngqina was in court.
One of the brothers of five year old Michael Komape who drowned inside a pit toilet at Mahlodumela primary school at Chebeng Village in Limpopo, has questioned the motive behind the Basic Education Department's settlement offer which it made to his family only recently. The 23-year old Komape was testifying at the Polokwane High court today where a lawsuit was lodged by his parents in 2014. The family wants compensation for their son's death. The Our reporter, Shibu Mamokgere is attending the hearing and she spoke to Stephen Kirker.
The mother of one of the victims of the Life Esidimeni tragedy has told of how she was not allowed to fetch her son from a ward at an NGO he had been transferred to during the Gauteng Health Department's Marathon Project. In a heartbreaking testimony, Miriam Monayane, the mother of Thabo Monyan, broke down when she recalled the state in which she found her son. She said four nurses wheeled her son to her while he lay on his bed. The Life Esidimeni hearings are looking into the deaths of 143 mental healthcare patients. Monayane broke down several times during her testimony.
Gauteng Finance MEC Barbara Creecy says managers in the provincial Health Department have to stay within their allocated budgets. Creecy has raised a concern about the state of the department's finances. She was delivering the mid-term budget speech in the provincial legislature earlier today. The department has received R1.7 billion more taking its budget to R128.7 billion this year. The department is facing serious financial problems which have resulted in the attachment of its movable assets. has had its movable assets attached by the sheriff so that debtors could Stephen Kirker spoke to MEC Creecy.
SABC board member, Rachel Kalidass has resigned. She says she is being sidelined and victimised for holding different opinions from other board members. Kalidas rose to prominence during the December 2016 parliamentary hearings. Stephen Kirker spoke to Kalidass and the DA's Phumzile Van Dam who says they are concerned by this latest development at the broadcaster.
A pre-trial case against two farmers of Coligny in North West, who are accused of killing a teenager earlier this year has been postponed to next month. The suspects appeared in the North West High court of Mahikeng this morning. Phillip Schutte and Pieter Doorewaard are facing murder and kidnap charges, following the death of 16-year-old Matlhomola Mosweu. Bafedile Moerane
The Limpopo Education Department says it will not be drawn into commenting on the ongoing civil trial related to the death of six-year-old learner Michael Komape, who drowned in a pit toilet at school at Chebeng Village's Mahlodumela Primary School in Limpopo in 2014. The litigation has entered its third day in the High Court in Polokwane with the cross examination of the child's father James Komape. Michael died when a pit toilet collapsed. The family is suing the Basic Education Department for their loss and the trauma suffered. Shibu Mamokgere is following the court case.
Members of Parliament that have been tasked with investigating allegations of state capture within power utility Eskom say a suggestion that those implicated will not be afforded the right to respond to the allegations against them is not correct. The comment follows Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown's criticism of the process yesterday. Her deputy Ben Martins also lambasted MPs last week. Eskom Board spokesperson Khulani Qoma told the Committee during his testimony that the minister was a liar and that she took instructions from the Guptas.
Deputy nursing manager from Cullinan Care and Rehab Centre, Dikeledi Manaka has told the Life Esidiment hearings that her first duty is to the patients and that she took more patients than the institution could handle because she was instructed to do so. Manaka who often took long pauses before answering questions revealed that she was not present when CCRC patients were transferred to NGOs Siyabadinga and Anchor Centre. Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke had to keep reminding her that she is under oath.
The Zimbabwe Liberation War Veterans Association has called for the removal of president Robert Mugabe from office. The veterans are briefing the media in Harare this afternoon. The army has arrested three ministers and a Zanu-PF Youth League leader. It says it is only targeting what it calls criminals around Mugabe and has assured Zimbabweans that their president and his family are safe. There has been no word from the president or his family since yesterday's events. The war veterans came under fire after criticizing the president for expelling former vice-president Emmerson Mnangagwa from the ruling Zanu-PF last week. Meanwhile president Jacob Zuma has called for calm and restraint and says that he hopes the developments will not lead to unconstitutional change of leadership. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to our correspondent in Zimbabwe Ephert Musekiwa.
The ANC says a team has been established to deal with disputes around the legitimacy of candidates and court cases that have been brought by ANC members vs other factions of the party. ANC members at branch and provincial level have been at war with each other over conference results and candidates who qualify to vote. The problem has largely been seen in KwaZulu Natal, the Eastern Cape and the North West. This comes as the party prepares for its National Elective Conference next month. ANC Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe briefed the media.
The Eastern Cape Health Department says it is doing its best to ensure that psychiatric patients are well taken care off. This after an allegation by an SAfm listener who wished to remain anonymous, that patients have been made to wait for up to a month before they are allocated beds at Dora Ndiza hospital in Port Elizabeth. The listener says he fears that this could result in another Esidimeni-like tragedy. We spoke to Eastern Cape Health Department spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo for a response.
The case of two suspects arrested in connection with the murder of two ten year old boys has been postponed to next Monday. They appeared in the Durban Magistrates Court in Kwa-Zulu Natal earlier today. They will apply for bail together with another suspect Amahle Maliwa who was in court yesterday. The children went missing last Tuesday. Our reporter Cyril Mnguni was in court.
The community of Sekgakgapeng at Mokopane in Limpopo is still in shock following the death of three children from suspected food poisoning. Parents say they were told that five children ate snacks of puffy potato chips before falling ill. Our reporter Pimani Baloi in on the story.
Parents of learners at Vulekani Special School in Umzimkhulu in KwaZulu Natal are alleging that a principal at the school has conducted virginity testing on the children. The parents as well as NGOs say they have told education officials about this but nothing has been done so far. This incident comes as the No Excuses campaign is being launched in Johannesburg. The campaign aims to end the violence against women and children. Our reporter Mlondi Radebe is on the story and he spoke to Stephen Kirker.
A second suspect has been arrested in connection with an attack on a Metro Police Officer in Hillbrow, Johannesburg yesterday afternoon. The officer was assaulted by a group of congregants until he lost consciousness. He has since been discharged from hospital. He and his colleagues were towing an illegally parked car at the time. It is believed that the vehicle belongs to one of the church members. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to Joburg Metro Police spokesperson Superintendent Waynne Minaar.
The Department of Home Affairs has extended the submission of supporting documents and biometrics for Zimbabwe Exemption Permits applications to 31 January 2018. Applicants who wish to travel during the festive season will have to produce their passports, ZSP sticker and receipt of ZEP application. Meanwhile, the African Diaspora Forum (ADF) has lambasted the Department of Home Affairs, alleging that the department was delaying processing its members' documents and that they do not know how many foreign nationals there are in the country. Stephen Kirker speaks to Home Affairs Director General Mkuseli Apleni.
It's been an incredible week in Zimbabwe, with the firing of Emmerson Mnangagwa as both the Vice President of the country and as a member of ZANU-PF. However, war veterans who live in South Africa say they are backing Mnangagwa and announced that they no longer recognise President Robert Mugabe as their leader and have formed a revolutionary council to take over the ruling ZANU-PF party. Meanwhile, its largely expected that First Lady Grace Mugabe could soon be announced as the new Vice President. On our 2nd and last leg of the interview with former ZANU-PF youth league leader, Ace Lumumba and an activist based here in SA, Tino Mambeu, talk to Stephen Kirker about the level and relevance of activism and mobilisation in Zimbabwe.
A court battle is looming at the Bojanala District Municipality in Rustenburg, North West regarding the appointment of a Municipal manager without proper qualifications. Opposition parties insist that the recent appointment of a municipal manager was irregular. Our reporter Bafedile Moerane is on the story.
Zimbabwe's ZANU PF Politburo has expelled Emmerson Mnangagwe as the party's vice president. President Robert Mugabe sacked him as the deputy president on Monday. Mnangagwa has fled to South Africa after claiming that he has been receiving death threats. He has issued a direct challenge to Mugabe and his wife Grace, saying he will return to Zimbabwe to lead ZANU-PF party members. Meanwhile our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to the former leader of the ZANU-PF Youth League Ace Lumumba.
Public Enterprises Deputy Minister Ben Martins says the suspended Eskom Head of Legal Services and Governance Suzanne Daniels is a liar. Martins was briefing the media in Parliament today on allegations that he's been trying to manipulate the court case of ousted Eskom CEO Brian Molefe. Daniels made the allegations when she appeared before the Parliamentary inquiry on state capture yesterday. She said she met the Deputy Minister, AJ Gupta, Duduzane Zuma, and a Chinese lady through a Gupta associate, Salim Essa and the Gupta family wanted to know the progress on Molefe's court case. Martins is disputing Daniels's account.
It has been revealed that suspended Head of Department Dr Barney Selebano, one of the 3 key decision makers in the Life Esimimeni relocations that cost the lives of at least 141 mental healthcare patients, started the process in the Johannesburg high court to have the subpoena to testify before the arbitration set aside. Dr Selebano has listed Justice Dikgang Moseneke, who is chairing the hearings as a respondent in his papers challenging Moseneke's subpoena.
Eskom's former finance director, Tsholofelo Molefe says she raised her concerns about contracts‚ which could have cost Eskom up to half a billion rand‚ before they it was signed but her concerns were pushed aside by Eskom leadership.
Following yesterday's postponement, the sentencing for former Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana resumed in the Randburg Magistrate's Court this morning. He was convicted of three counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm after pleading guilty to the charges in September. Manana who has two previous convictions for theft says he has received a salary cut following his resignation and has also been volunteering for an organisation that teachers young boys about gender violence.
Former Higher Education deputy minister Mduduzi Manana has asked for a lenient sentence. He says he's willing to pay the medical expenses of the victims he assaulted at a Fourways night club in Johannesburg in August. Manana is due to be sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting three women. He has since resigned from his ministerial position. Manana who has two previous convictions for theft says he has received a salary cut following his resignation and has been volunteering for an organisation that teachers young boys about gender violence. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC senior reporter, Angela Bolowane...
Taxi commuters in Johannesburg and Pretoria have been advised to seek alternative transport tomorrow as drivers affiliated to the National Taxi Alliance (NTA) will be marching to the ministry of Transport and the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The organisation says the Transport Ministry has failed to address their long-standing concerns. More than 10 000 taxi operators are expected to participate. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to NTA's spokesperson Theo Malele and Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi.
Former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng says he is disappointed in a Labour Court ruling which dismissed his and another former SABC executive Simon Tebele's application for leave to appeal. The pair have been found personally liable along with the SABC for the payment of the legal costs of the so-called SABC 8. The eight were illegally fired after they protested against the public broadcasters' censoring of violent protests, among other things. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Angela Bolowana who was in court, who in turn got reaction from Motsoeneng, Bewamu president Hannes Du Buisson and Solidarity's Anton van der Bijl.
Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe is expected to hold a media briefing this afternoon in Harare amidst speculation of a cabinet reshuffle. This comes as ZANU-PF Youth League call on Mugabe to fire one of his two Vice-Presidents, Emmerson Mnangagwa. SABC Foreign Editor, Sophie Mokoena spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The North West Transport Department's effort to change the provincial number plates has failed. This, as the High Court's ruled that it is illegal to issue a tender to change provincial number plates from NW to BB. BB stands for Bokone Bophirima, a name that is not legislated. Two number plates industry companies took the Department to Court for non-consultation. It's here that it was found that a relatively new company Retrone Road & Traffic Solutions was illegally awarded a lucrative deal for introduction, secularisation and the new number plates. CEO of the South African Number Plates Association, Zurika Louw spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Department John Jefferey says stakeholders owe it to the victims of sexual offences to make sure the Sexual Offences Act works. He was speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria this morning. Stakeholders including government, civil society groups and the National Prosecuting Authority met over two days last week to reflect on whether the Act is dealing with the problem of abuse effectively. Crime Stats released by the Police Ministry in October show that the number of sexual offences reported has decreased by 4.3%. Stephen Kirker spoke to the Deputy Minister of the Justice and Constitutional Development Department John Jeffery.
Vicki Momberg found guilty of four counts of crimen injuria by the Randburg Magistrate's Court. Momberg is said to have refused to be assisted by a black person at a police station after a smash and grab incident.
The Communications Workers Union of South Africa (CWU) earlier withdrew its notice to strike over the wage dispute, but now they say they plan on joining BEMAWU in an effort to get SABC staff a 10% increase.
The South African Communist Party, SACP, in the Free State says it will contest all 21 wards in the Metsimaholo Municipality under its own banner, due to the ANC's failure to address community needs. The Communist Party has also accused the ANC of imposing candidates on the community.
The SABC has given striking workers an ultimatum to return to work or face disciplinary action which may include dismissal. The SABC says the strike called by the Broadcasting, Electronic Media and Allied Workers Union (BEMAWU), is unprotected.
Judge Dayalin Chetty is handing down judgement in the Eastern Cape High Court in Port Elizabeth on the Panayiotou trial. Christopher Panayiotou is facing several charges regarding the murder of his wife, Jayde in 2015.
Precious metals producer Sibanye-Stillwater has confirmed that it has laid off more than two-thousand gold mineworkers. The move comes as the mine shuts its loss-making Cooke shafts, where illegal mining syndicates have plagued its operations.
More than fifty learners who allege to have been sexually assaulted by a scholar patroller at a primary school in Soweto have positively identified the accused as their alleged perpetrator.
The case of Nigerian Pastor, Timothy Omotoso, accused of human trafficking was postponed at the Port Elizabeth Magistrates Court today. Omotoso has failed to secure bail in two previous court appearances following his arrest by the hawks at Port Elizabeth International Airport earlier this year.
International observers of last week's presidential elections rerun in Kenya have called on citizens who are unhappy about the declaration of incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta as the winner, to seek legal redress.
Police have allegedly used rubber bullets to disperse protesting workers at the Majuba Power Station in Mpumalanga, leaving six workers injured. Workers at the power station between Volksrust and Amersfoort are demanding salary increases and bonuses.
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), The Telecommunications and Postal Services Department and the South African Post Office are to meet urgently and then present a solution to the current impasse around the details of a deal that will see the Post Office distribute grant payments. They will give feedback of their meeting to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Social Services and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts tomorrow evening. SASSA wants to start a new procurement process on Friday after the deadlock but Parliamentarians will have none of it.
Triple murder accused, Henri van Breda, spent the first half of his testimony recalling the events of the night that saw his family murdered and left his sister brutally injured. Van Breda says he saw a silhouette attacking his brother Rudy with an unknown object. Van Breda also revealed that his family had dinner and watched a movie on the night of the murders. Western Cape High Court judge, Siraj Desai ruled that Van Breda's testimony be broadcast live following the defence's attempts to prevent this. Van Breda is accused of axing his parents and brother in their Stellenbosch home in 2015.
Ten people have been killed in a shooting incident at Matiwaneskop, near Ladysmith, in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands. Sources say five people who were travelling in a small vehicle were shot dead by unknown people. Their vehicle lost control and collided with a taxi killing five other people. It is believed that the minibus taxi was transporting teachers when the crash happened. Stephen Kirker spoke to SAPS KZN Spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbhele
Civil rights group Afriforum says their statistics of farm murders also include the workers who are killed during attacks. He says it is not true that they are protesting because they want to protect the lives of white farmers only. Hundreds of supporters of #BlackMonday are taking part in protests across the country. AfriForum, says they are calling for the development and implementation of a consolidated strategy against farm attacks. Reports indicate there have been over 340 attacks and at least 65 murders on farms this year alone.CEO of Afriforum, Kallie Kriel spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Talks between the South African Social Secuirty Agency (SASSA) and the SA Post Office have collapsed and a new procurement process will start next month. This was announced by the Social Services Department in East London this morning. There has been a stalemate over the provision of four services by the Post Office. The parties met with parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts last week and another meeting is set for tomorrow. Stephen Kirker spoke to Lumka Oliphant, the spokesperson for the Social Development Department.
Kenya's Deputy President, William Ruto insists that there will be no re-election in 90 days as opposition leader Raila Odinga has reportedly said. This comes as the country's Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission continues counting ballots cast during last week's election which was marred by violence. Some voting stations did not open as police and protestors clashed. Odinga refused to take part in the election citing concerns around the credibility of the IEBC as the main reason for his decision. Ruto spoke to SABC Foreign Desk Editor Sophie Mokoena in an exclusive interview.
Students have blocked roadways at the University of Cape Town as fee protests continue. Students from UCT and CPUT marched to Parliament yesterday to demand that President Jacob Zuma release the Fees Commission Report. Meanwhile, UCT has confirmed that it has suspended lectures due to ongoing student protests. Stephem Kirker spoke to University spokesperson Elijah Moholela.
Researchers from the United Nations Children's Fund say Africa must invest in healthcare, education and women empowerment from now until 2030 Africa if it is to meet international standards. UNICEF released a report titled "generation 2030" in Johannesburg this morning. It says the population of children in the continent is expected to rise to 750 million making the children the majority of the population. The organisation says there are lots of opportunities that can be exploited with that high population of children in Africa. For more on this we are joined on the line by David Anthony, UNICEF, Chief Sustainability and Policy Action, Data, Research and Policy.
Stephen Kirker speaks to Arabile Gumede from Bloomberg about the markets this afternoon.
Kenyan police have fired live rounds in the air to disperse groups of opposition supporters in the western city of Kisumu. Opposition supporters are continuing to clash with police in several areas, including Nairobi's Kibera informal settlement. The residential area is a stronghold of the National Super Alliance (NASA) which is being led by Raila Odinga who has urged his followers to boycott the elections. This is Kenya's second attempt at choosing a president after the August eight poll was annulled by the country's Supreme Court. Stephen Kirker speaks to our reporter in Kibera Noma Bolani.
There was shock from members of the gallery as Kenya's Chief Justice David Maraga announced that tomorrow's elections will go ahead as planned. Maraga, who was not wearing his official garb told the gallery that the court could not make a decision regarding an application by the opposition that the elections be postponed because of concerns that the Independent Electoral Boards was not ready to conduct free and fair elections. The Kenyan law requires that five judges sit for the Supreme Court to be properly constituted but it several judges were not available. Stephen Kirker spoke to our correspondent in Nairobi Sarah Kimani.
The lawyer representing the office of the public protector, Advocate Maleka, has told the high court in Pretoria that there is no rational basis to set side remedial actions in the State of Capture Report. This is in the wake of an earlier argument by lawyers representing president Jacob Zuma that the public protector has no powers to instruct him to establish a commission of inquiry. President Zuma is challenging the report by former public protector Thuli Madonsela on grounds that the remedial actions which instruct him, are in violation of separation of powers doctrine. Maleka says the public protector recommended an inquiry due to lack of resources to fully investigate all allegations. Stephen Kirker spoke to Lecturer and Private Law expert Khomotso Moshikaro.
Platinum miner Lonmin plans is set to cut over 1,000 jobs before Christmas due to persistently low commodity prices and rising costs. The mining company says the cost pressures have forced it to put a number of its marginal shafts under care and maintenance. Lonmin Head of Corporate Communications Wendy Tlou spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Former Gauteng Health MEC, Qedani Mahlangu has expressed that she is willing to testify before the Life Esidimeni arbitration probing the deaths of 141 mental healthcare patients after they were moved to various NGOs under her leadership. On day 12 of the hearings currently taking place in Parktown Johanneburg, Justice Dikgang Moseneke revealed that the hearings will not end until Mahlangu, Dr Selebano as well as Dr Manamela testify.
CEO of the Eskom Pension Fund Sbu Luthuli says the power utility was clearly aware of the fund's regulations when it submitted a pension application for the then CEO Brian Molefe. Luthuli is appearing before Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises which resumed its hearings this morning. The hearing are focusing on the 30-million-rand pension payout that Eskom was to make to Molefe. Luthuli told the committee the discrepancies on the dates of his employment.
A 39-year-old man has been arrested following an incident in which an alleged gang boss, known as Donkey, was shot and wounded at the Cape Town International Airport on Wednesday. Armed men allegedly entered the facility in which the gang boss is recovering. To further discuss the gang violence we spoke to a former gang leader and now pastor who requested to remain anonymous about Donkey and the escalation in gang violence
Stephen Kirker speaks to Gerrit van Rooyen from NKC African Economics about the midday markets update.
Amathole ANC region has vowed not to meet with the newly elected ANC leadership in the Eastern Cape which is visiting all the seven regions in the province. Amathole regional committee boycotted the workshop aimed at preparations and nominations of national leadership. The regional structure has not accepted the new PEC and it has lodged a formal complaint to Luthuli House to annul the conference. Stephen Kirker spoke to ANC Eastern Cape Secretary Lulama Ngcukaitobi.
Day eight of the Life Esidimeni Arbitration has seen emotional testimony by the relatives of those who died after being transferred from Life Esidimeni to NGOs. Sandra Devilliers, the sister of Jaco Stalls who died after being moved from the Cullinan Rehabilitation Centre to make space for Life Esidimeni patients, became emotional as she recalled the death of her brother. Speaking through an interpreter, she revealed that her brother was mistreated not just at the Siyabandinga facility but at CCRC as well.
Two ANC councillors from uMzimkhulu municipality who witnessed the murder of fellow ANC councillor, Sindiso Magaqa have testified before the Moerane Commission investigating political killings in KZN. Jabulie Mzizi and Nontsikelelo Mafa have told how they had spent with Magaqa before his unfortunate demise in July this year. Our reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe is on the story.
The Education Department in the Northern Cape has charged 3 teachers with sexual misconduct. The teachers have been implicated in the department's report probing sexual misconduct at Bothitong High School near Kuruman. Initial media reports claimed that 30 learners at the school had been impregnated by educators. However, according to the department no teacher was found to have impregnated any learner. Our presenter Stephen Kirker spoke to the Northern Cape's Communication head, Lehuma Ntuane.
Civil rights organisation AFRIFORUM says the head of its private prosecuting unit Advocate Gerrie Nel plans to pursue charges of culpable homicide against President Jacob Zuma's son Duduzane. This is in relation to the death of a woman. Phumzile Dube was one of the two people that were killed when Zuma's car collided with a taxi in which she was travelling
South African Communist Party secretary general Blade Nzimande has been axed as minister of higher education‚ and replaced with Prof Hlengiwe Mkhize‚ who was minister of home affairs. President Jacob Zuma has reshuffled his cabinet‚ swapping around six of his ministers. Ayanda Dlodlo‚ whose position as minister of communications has been taken over by Mmamoloko Kubayi, is now the MInister of Home Affairs. Kubayi was the minister of energy and will be replaced by former minister of state security David Mahlobo
The initiative aims to fascilitate economic development among the 21 nations along the Indian Ocean. 70% of the world's trade passes through the region but unless infrastructure and logistics are ironed out, many of IORA's goals will continue not being realised.
Mango Airlines claims that there has been minimal disruptions since flight crew downed tools this morning. Talks between management and the union collapsed yesterday. The flight crew are affiliated to trade union SATAWU and they want an 8.5% wage increase but Mango says it can only give them an increase of 6%. 95% of the pilots at the Airliner are affiliated to SATAWU.
The murder trial of Christopher Panayiotou and his co-accused, Luthando Siyoni resumes in the Port Elizabeth High Court today. Panayiotou's mistress, Chanelle Coutts is expected to take the stand. Defence advocate Terry Price indicated that they will close their case this week, after calling Coutts, a few policemen and perhaps a cell phone expert. Panayiotou is accused of orchestrating the kidnapping and murder of of his wife Jade Panayiotou in 2015
Yet another case of the alleged rape of a pupil, this time, by her teacher has emerged. This time in Tzaneen in Limpopo. This comes on the back of news of 17yrs old raped by a scholar patrola and the nearly 90 children allegedly raped a primary school in Soweto by a security guard. The attacks are said to have taken place in the guard house. For more on the case in Tazaneen were joined on the line by Limpopo police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Moatse Ngoepe
It has emerged that a total of 141 mental patients have died since their transfer from the Life Esidimeni hospital to NGOs around Gauteng. This has been confirmed by the Acting Head of the Health Department in Gauteng Dr. Enerst Kenoshi who is testifying before former Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke in the arbitration process between the families of the deceased and the state. The number of deaths was at 118 at the time of the release of the Health Ombudsman's report in February this year, but 23 more people have since died.
President Jacob Zuma's appeal case against the released of the so called spytapes has been dismissed with costs. Justice Andrew Leach said the judges of the Supreme Court of Appeal have also found it irrational by former NPA Head Mokotedi Mpshe to drop the corruption charges against President Zuma. Zuma and the NPA have been appealing an earlier high court ruling that it was irrational to drop hundreds of corruption charges against the president. Stephen Kirker spoke to Constitutional Law Expert Professor Pierre de Vos.
An expert in the insurance industry has advised consumers to carefully consider their needs when purchasing insurance products. The comment comes as clean up operations continue in KwaZulu Natal where more than 10 people have died due to a severe storm. Scores more have had their homes destroyed. Hospital and schools have also not been spared by the bad weather conditions. Authorities are still assessing the extent of the damage. Stephen Kirker spoke to General Manager at Marara Risk Solutions George Sadiki.
An expert in the insurance industry has advised consumers to carefully consider their needs when purchasing insurance products. The comment comes as clean up operations continue in KwaZulu Natal where more than 10 people have died due to a severe storm. Scores more have had their homes destroyed. Hospital and schools have also not been spared by the bad weather conditions. Authorities are still assessing the extent of the damage. Stephen Kirker spoke to General Manager at Marara Risk Solutions George Sadiki.
ANC and SACP member, Thabiso Zulu has revealed that some police officers hampered investigations into political killings in KwaZulu Natal. Zulu, who is testifying before the Moerane Commission of Inquiry, was referring to the murder of ANC councillor, Sindiso Magaqa. He says the Independent Police Investigative Directorate often struggles to get co-operation from the police when investigating cases involving one of their own. Yesterday, Zulu testified that corruption, money laundering and the alleged rape of a female councillor are some of the reasons behind the problems in the ANC's troubled Harry Gwala region. Our reporter, Nonkululeko Hlophe is attending the hearing and she spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
The Head of Planning in the Gauteng Health Department Levy Mosenogi has come under fire during cross-examination at the Life Esidiment Arbitration taking place in Parktown. Mosenogi has revealed that he as project manager responsible for overseeing the transfer of patients from Life Esidimeni hospital, did not have a formal written plan regarding the logistics of the relocation.
The Head of Planning in the Gauteng Health Department Levy Mosenogi has come under fire during cross-examination at the Life Esidiment Arbitration taking place in Parktown. Mosenogi has revealed that he as project manager responsible for overseeing the transfer of patients from Life Esidimeni hospital, did not have a formal written plan regarding the logistics of the relocation.
There are conflicting reports about the number of people who have died during the storms in KwaZulu-Natal. Authorities hosted a media briefing this afternoon saying eight people have died. But new information has since come to light stating that 14 people are dead. Police spokesperson Nqobile Gwala has confirmed the deaths of 11 people while emergency services have confirmed the deaths of three others, bringing the total to 14. Among the dead are a four-year-old girl from Isipingo and a 12-year-old boy who was swept away in a stream at Izingolweni near Port Shepstone on the south coast. Head of Communication at the KwaZulu-Natal Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department Mthatheni Mabaso says the storm took them by surprise.
Stephen Kirker speaks to Gerrit Van Rooyen from NKC African Economics about the lunch-time market update.
Defence and Policing expert Dr. Johan Burger says it is not advisable to deploy the army to reinforce policing in democracies. Burger's comments come as the Police and Defence departments engage on the need for support from the SANDF in combating organised crime in the Western Cape and Gauteng. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula earlier said President Jacob Zuma would be asked to approve the deployment of the army to the two provinces. Burger spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker.
Two people have died in KwaZulu-Natal as a result of the storm that is ravaging the province. The fatalities are in the Nquthu municipality in the north of the province where one person was struck by lightning while the other drowned trying to cross a river. A number of roads have been closed to traffic in the eThekwini municipality and other areas on the south coast. The storm also left a trail of destruction in Gauteng and Limpopo. Bongani Gwala spoke to our reporter in Durban Mlondi Radebe.
The inyernational community is keeping a close watch as Liberian go to the polls today. Twenty candidates are standing to replace Johnson Sirleaf whose term of twelve years has come to an end. The election is expected to be peaceful. Our presenter Bongi Gwala spoke to Denis Kadima, Deputy Mission Leader & Executive Director of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa who is in Monrovia.
The NPA has withdrawn charges against the woman accused of killing one of the men who allegedly raped her daughter in Lady Frere in the Eastern Cape last month. The 54-year-old woman was facing charges of murder and attempted murder after she allegedly stabbed three men in Zwartwater. NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali spoke to Stephen Kirker.
The man accused of raping two Nelson Mandela University students on campus last week, is expected to plead guilty to the charge, as well as additional charges of housebreaking and robbery. The 29-year old suspect refused to apply for bail during his brief appearance at the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's court on Friday saying he would plead guilty. Our reporter, Mcebisi Ngqina has been attending court proceedings and he spoke to Stephen Kirker.
The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape will this weekend go into its provincial congress without two senior party leaders. Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille has been suspended from party activities and Western Cape Premier Helen Zille will be attending a wedding. Interim Provincial leader Bonginkosi Madikizela will be hoping to make the position permanent whilst suspended JP Smith is expected to go for one of the three deputy chairperson positions. Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Chris Mabuya.
The lawyer representing the Zimbabwean Embassy says he will be taking legal action against the attorney of the civil organisation, Afriforum, Etienne Lubuschagne for alleged unethical conduct against him. Advocate Simba Chitando made the comment following the judgement by the North Gauteng High Court to grant the Embassy leave to intervene in the matter of assault case between 20-year old Gabrilla Engels and Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe which took place in Sandton Johannesburg last month. Our reporter Phumzile Mlangeni attended the court proceedings and spoke to our presenter Stephen Kirker
The case of a 29-year-old suspect accused of raping two Nelson Mandela University students in Port Elizabeth on Monday night, has been postponed to Monday. This is to allow the suspect's formal guilty plea and legal consultation at the Regional Court. The suspect made a brief appearance in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court where he refused to apply for bail and chose to plead guilty. He faces two counts of rape, house-breaking and robbery. Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Mcebisi Ngqina who was in court.
Illegal miners otherwise known as the Zama-Zamas are still fighting eviction from mining land that is allegedly owned by Ekapa Mining in Kimberly. The miners had a meeting recently with Minerals Resources Department and legal representatives to find solutions to the looming eviction. The Zama-Zama's say Ekapa Mining say they are not happy with the ruling of the Constitutional court which allows the eviction. Stephen Kirker spoke to the leader of the Zama-Zamas in Kimberly Lucky Seekoie.
The search for the killers of eight members of the Sibiya family in Matimatolo, in the Kwa-Zulu Natal midlands continues. The family was murdered in two separate attacks within the same homestead. The victims range between two years and 58 years of age. Our reporter, Hloniphile Fakazi is on the story
The DA says it wants a minimum of 15 years for corruption and wants Parliament to establish a commission of inquiry into state capture or face another court battle. Speaking at the DA march outside the Gupta residence in Saxonworld Johannesburg, DA leader Mmusi Maimane says they want to see Gupta family members, which he says are corrupt, jailed.
Calls are growing for an elective congress of the MK Military Veterans Association to be held this weekend as divisions grow. The MKMVA Council together with factions of former deputy president Ike Moroe have been calling for an all inclusive congress to address issues of unity and leadership. However, MKMVA President Kebby Maphatsoe says he is not going to have any part of it. Our senior political reporter Ntebo Mokobo is on the story.
Four year old Shaynice Talla has been laid to rest. The little girl was found dead in an open drain near her home last Wednesday in Eldorado Park south of Johannesburg after the police and the community came together to search for her. She had gone missing that afternoon. Our reporter Jamine Krige attended the funeral service.
The Mayor of Cape Town Patricia De Lille has once again called on residents to do their best to save water. The city has imposed stringent water restrictions for months and in September level 5 water restrictions were introduced. This sought to curb water usage by commercial property owners by 20%. However, water consumption is still way above the 500 million litre daily usage due to leaks and deliberate water wastage. De Lille hosted a media briefing earlier today. Our reporter Lynne Arendse was there.
EFF members and security officials at Groot Marico in the North West have clashed as president Jacob Zuma unveiled a monument at the site where he and other activists were arrested in 1963. EFF members and supporters wearing their red regalia forced entry, insisting that the unveiling is not an ANC event, but a government one, and that everyone should be allowed to attend. The monument is in the route that anti-apartheid activists used when exiting the country going into exile. Our reporter Lucas Mothibedi is at Groot Marico.
Police Minister, Fikile Mbalula is expected to visit the Marikana informal settlement in the Western Cape following recent shootings that have seen a total of 18 people killed. Mbalula will also visit the victim's families. Police have acted by embarking on anti-crime operations in the area. Our reporter Thandiswa Mawu who is at the Philippi police station and Police Spokesperson Vuyo Mhaga spoke to us.
An urgent application by suspended Director-General of the Home Affairs Department Mkuseli Apleni has been struck off the roll. Apleni is challenging his suspension which came into effect last month, saying it's unconstitutional. Minister Hlengiwe Mkhize did not provide reasons for the suspension but has since been calling Apleni dilusional, while Apleni believes that his suspension was a ploy to remove him from the department so that the minister could interfere in current legal matters involving South Africa's richest family the Oppenheimers and her son Sizwe. We spoke to Apleni's lawyer S.J. Thema and labour lawyer from Bagraim Attorneys Michael Bagraim.
The case of a Grade 2 pupil who took a gun with live rounds of ammunition to school in Brakpan on Gauteng's westrand has once again highlighted the serious issue of school bullying. The incident is being investigated by education authorities and the police. Preliminary investigations indicate that the gun was brought to school with the intention to harm a fellow learner who was bullying him. This comes after a spate of violent incidents at various schools across the country including a young pupil who died in Benoni from injuries he sustained during a beating by alleged bullies. We spoke to Educational Psychologist Dr Zandile Shabangu.
The Democratic Alliance says it is still consulting its lawyers about how to proceed after the High Court in Pretoria granted President Jacob Zuma a stay in immediately implementing a judicial commission of inquiry as recommended in the former Public Protector's State of Capture report. This ruling will be effective until Zuma's application for a review of that remedial action recommended by the report is heard in October. The DA and the Public Protector were ordered to pay costs of the application. In her report then Public Protector Thuli Madonsela recommended that Zuma establish a commission of inquiry into state capture and that Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng choose a judge to preside over it. Professor James Grant from the Wits School of Law says the court's decision was pragmatic.
Seven suspects have appeared briefly in the Escourt Magistrates Court in KwaZulu Natal on charges of murder and conspiracy to murder. The seventh suspect was caught earlier this morning. Six of his co-accused were arrested last month after one of them handed himself over to police telling them that he was tired of eating human flesh. Our reporter Fanele Mhlongo is on the story.
A surprise witness brought by the defence in the murder trial of business man Christopher Panayiotou has refuted claims by the state that he was consulted during a sting operation which ultimately led to the arrest of Christopher Panayiotou. This comes after investigating officer Captain Kanna Swanepoel testified earlier this year that they had telephoned Gounden to get his approval for the sting operation. Deputy Public Prosecutor in charge of organised crime, Advocate Selvan Gounden was cross examined by the prosecutor Marius Stander and has told the Port Elizabeth High Court that he had not been phoned by the police investigating the murder of Uitenhage teacher Jayde Panayiotou. Our reporter Anda Nqonji was in court.
Several communities in Thabazimbi Municipality in Limpopo are facing an electricity blackout due to none payment of monies owed to Eskom by the struggling municipality which also recently failed to pay Magalies Water. This left many residents without running water. Infighting and financial mismanagement have paralysed the municipality for the past few years. Limpopo Provincial Government Spokesperson Phuti Seloba says
The family of the late John Chisale who was a farm worker in Lephalale in Limpopo will finally be able to bury him after the owner of the farm he had worked on for his whole life finally agreed to have him buried on the property. Chisale's body has been in the mortuary for three weeks. He had worked at the farm for over seventy years when he died. The farm management failed in its previous attempt to evict him in 2006. The department of rural development and land reform appointed a lawyer to represent the family in court during an urgent application today. Our reporter Witness Tiva was in court. We also spoke to Legal Researcher at the Legal Resource Centre Shirhami Shirinda who has written extensively about land evictions and the burial rights of farm workers.
A demographic dividend based on a number of socio-economic indicators like the labour market, economic growth, education and training, governance, health care and family planning, are some of the things South African can use to reap a Demographic dividend. Stats SA Statistician General Pali Lehohla has released a report that tells a story of whether South Africa is indeed using its demographics to reap rewards of improving standard of living. Statistician General Pali Lehohla broke down the facts for us.
The murder trial of Christopher Panayiotou and two co-accused has finally resumed at the Port Elizabeth High Court in the Eastern Cape, after a surprise postponement yesterday due to the unavailability of witnesses. This is the fourth court session of this case after a three-month break. The case has been characterised by controversy, with allegations of witness intimidation and assault claims being being made. Some witnesses have also withdrawn their statements. Also before the case closed in June, a secret video recording in which Christopher Panayiotou is seemingly discussing his wife, Jayde's murder, was allowed to be played in court. The video went viral on social media. Our reporter Veronica Fourie has been following the case closely.
The Western Cape High Court has ruled that political parties must disclose who their funders are. The judgement was delivered this morning. Parliament has been given a year and a half to make amendments to the Promotion of Access to Information Act of 2000. Janine Ogle the National Co-ordinator of the NGO "My Vote Counts" which brought the application, says the ruling is good for voters.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi is meeting with the the provincial leadership of teacher union SADTU this afternoon after they boycotted classes last week, in solidarity with their colleagues whom they said faced racism in predominany coloured areas south of Johannesburg where they teach. The union claimed that the department is not doing anything to address the matter. There has been racial tensions at Klipspruit West Secondary High School which have been disrupting schooling and have led to the disbandment of the School Governing Body. Lesufi says preparations are underway to take grade twelve learners into camps so that their preparations for the matric exams are not affected. The MEC also met with community members this morning.
The High Court in Pretoria continues to deliver judgement in the case of former SA Revenue Service manager, Mandisa Mokoena ,and nine others later today. They are charged with 58 counts of fraud, money laundering and corruption. Mokoena allegedly colluded with service providers and used her position to influence the awarding of tenders to the tune of 11 million rand at SARS. Our reporter Liela Magnus is on the story.
SATDU withdraws 324 teachers from Eldorado Park schools this comes after four teachers were prevented from entering the school by the community early this week. Community leader, Anthony Williams says their complaints has been ignored by the department.
Hundreds of teachers based in Eldorado Park schools and belonging to SADTU, have boycotted schooling. This after 4 teachers were prevented from entering the school by the community early this week. Earlier on Stephen Kirker spoke to Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona about the teachers who boycotted schooling.
The Patriotic Alliance (PA) has withdrawn from the coalition government in the Nelson Mandela Bay hardly a month after joining the coalition. The party's leader, Gayton Mackenzie, says they will only re-join the coalition if they are offered the vacant Deputy Mayor's position. This became vacant after the UDM's Mongameli Bobani was ousted through a motion of no-confidence tabled by the PA's councillor, Marlon Daniels, last month. Daniels was later offered the position of Political Head of the Public Health portfolio, previously occupied by Bobani. For more on this Stephen Kirker spoke to Political analysts Ongama Mtimka from Nelson Mandela University who believes that the withdrawal by PA from the coalition will cause further instability and will push the municipality to dissolution.
The country's second biggest labour federation FEDUSA is threatening to pull out its members from the government pension fund - Public Investment Corporation (PIC) if leadership instability continues. According to its general-secretary Dennis George, they remaind concerned about lack of good governence at the PIC following attempts to remove its chief Executive, Dan Matjila. Fedusa is taking part in the CCMA shop stewards and Union offficials conference, currently taking place in Ekurhuleni. To discuss the implications of this, earlier on Stephen Kirker spoke to our Econ desk Editor, Thandeka Gqubule...
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has released its first volume of the "pulse of the public service". This will be used to brief the public and stakeholders about its work. To tell us more we are now joined on the line by Public Service Commissioner, Michael Seloane...
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Deputy minister, Andries Nel says South African cities are still shaped by the legacy of Apartheid planning. Nel was speaking at the Human Settlements Development Summit underway at the Birchwood Hotel on Gauteng's East Rand. Among the matters that will be discussed are the Master Spatial Plan, Urban and Rural Management and Re-imagining housing finance
The High Court in Pretoria dismissed with costs the case brought by 20 Gupta-owned companies against the Bank of Baroda. The companies were challenging the decision by Baroda to close their last remaining bank account in the country. South Africa's major banks including FNB, Absa and Standard bank closed bank accounts linked to the Gupta companies without disclosing reasons. Our Econ reporter Tshepo Mongoai joined us in studio
Outspoken ANC MP Makhosi Khoza has announced that she is leaving the ruling party. She's made the announcement at a press briefing at Lilliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, north of Johannesburg. Khoza says she is leaving because of the current state of the ANC,describing it as alien and corrupt. Stephen Kirker spoke to ANC KZN spokesperson, Mdumiseni Ntuli...
Police are manning the gates of Klipspruit Wes Secondary School in Eldorado Park, following clashes between members of the community and ANC members in the area. This comes as ANC members protested outside the school after discovering that some members of the community were invigilating exams at the school. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporter Cryselda Lewis who was there when the scuffle broke out.
The Pan African Psychology Union has started its three day congress in Durban to address some of the biggest mental health problems in Africa. Leaders in the psychology field are taking stock of the state of psychology on the continent with the aim of improving mental health care. Recent trends have raised concerns over mental illnesses such as depression becoming number one debilitating desease world wide in the near future.
The Gauteng Education Department has confirmed that preliminary exams for grade 11 learners at the Klipspruit West High School in Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg will not go ahead. This comes after classes were disrupted yesterday after four teachers were barred from entering the premises. It's believed that other educators then boycotted classes in solidarity with the group, resulting in exams not taking place. The school has made headlines in recent weeks after protests erupted over the appointment of a black principal. Stephen Kirker spoke to community leader Anthony Williams.
The infighting within the councillors of Mnquma Local Municipality continues as two factions clash over a candidate that will replace the late municipal manager Sindile Tantsi who died earlier this year. The council has kicked out a manager seconded by the Bisho government and had appointed its own candidate which the province does not approve of. This has led to a standoff which has, according to residents, had a negative impact on service delivery in the municipality. Our reporter Makhaya Komisa has been following the story.
The Mahikeng High Court is expected to deliver judgement in the case of the ANC's Bojanala region in Rustenburg and the provincial structure this afternoon. The party has appealed an earlier court ruling granting the region an interdict against the sitting of the regional and provincial general councils last month. The region is alleging that some delegates were irregularly excluded from the councils. The Bojanala region is the largest in the province. We spoke to Political Analyst from Nelson Mandela University Ongama Mtimka.
Nine senior executives from the auditing firm‚ KPMG‚ have been forced to resign in a fallout over the company's involvement with the controversial Gupta family.The nine include the firm's chief executive officer‚ Trevor Hoole‚ and chief operating officer and country risk manager‚ Steven Louw. But KPMG has insisted it was not involved in any criminal activities. Economist Dr. Iraj Abedian gave us his perspective on the matter.
The Congress of South African Students (COSAS) says learners will have to take matters into their own hands if government continues to fail them by not addressing issues of rape and corporal punishment in schools. The organisation held media briefing in Johannesburg. In recent weeks a number videos have been emerging on social media of teachers seen either viciously attacking pupils or sexually assaulting them. In KwaZulu-Natal alone the Department of Education suspended six teachers accused of sexual offences against pupils at five different schools. We spoke to COSAS president John Macheke.
The shut down of services in Vuwani in Limpopo will continue indefinitely. The Pro-Makhado group addressed the community this morning following the reopening of municipal offices in the area. Community leaders say that government should take the blame for the prolonged shut down in the Limpopo town because it has not been making good on its promises. Pro-Makhado spokesperson Nsovo Sambo spoke to us.
A small group of people dressed in ANC and EFF regalia have been protesting outside the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate's Court where two men accused of assaulting a nine year old are applying for bail. Johannes Potgieter, a farmer of Schierpoort and Hendricks Dumas allegedly tied the girl to a tree and then beat her up. The girl's mother says she is traumatised and has sudden crying spells since the incident. Our reporter Liela Magnus is on the story.
One of the women alleged to have had an extra-maritial affair with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has approached the Johannesburg High Court to interdict the online publication owned by business tycoon Thapelo Kenny Kunene from publishing the videos on its site. Our reporter Noma Bolani is in court.
The MEC for Social Development Department in Eastern Cape, Nancy Sihlwayi says the young woman who reported a rape case which saw a 55-year old woman allegedly kill a man she found raping her daughter has been received threats. The incident happened in Zwartwater near Lady Frere last week. Two other suspects were injured during the incident and are now behind bars. The woman is out on five hundred rands' bail. South Africans have rallied behind the mother since the news broke and have set up a crowd funding campaign to assist with her legal fees. MEC Nancy Sihlwayi will visit her family this afternoon.
A man has been arrested outside the Randburg magistrates court north of Johannesburg, where former Higher Education Deputy Minister Mduduzi Manana is appearing on assault charges. The man allegedly took part in the assault which was captured on video. He was identified by one of the victims. Manana's lawyer says his client will plead guilty. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo is in court.
The Azanian People's Organisation (AZAPO) says it is unhappy about the round table discussion which was hosted by the Arts and Culture department in honour of the late anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko in Pretoria last night. The department celebrated Biko's legacy under the theme "The Year of OR Tambo". AZAPO's Cikizwa Dabula has accused the department of prioritising liberation struggle heroes and heroines associated with the ANC.
A trust fund has been set up for donation that will help the Eastern Cape woman who allegedly stabbed one of three men who are alleged to have raped her daughter. Lawyers from Tonise Attorneys together with other organisations, will be doing pro-bono work but the money will go towards the needs of her indigent family . The 55-year old was arrested but has since been released on five-hundred rands bail and is expected back in court next month. Her Attorney Buhle Tonise gave us details about the process under way.
The ANC's Senzo Mchunu says he hopes today's court ruling in his group's favour will unite the party in KwaZulu Natal. The Pietermaritzburg High Court has ruled against the national and provincial executive committees as well as individuals including Premier Willies Mchunu and provincial chairperson Sihle Zikalala in a vote rigging case lodged by five branches in the province. The group alleges that the 2015 provincial leadership conference elections were rigged, a claim denied by the party. Mchunu says the ruling was fair and that the ANC should take the opportunity to move forward in a positive way.
The community of the Mpungutyane Administrative area outside Mt Frere in the Eastern Cape is in shock following the brutal murder of a 35-year-old woman. It's alleged that the victim from Mpamba Village was stabbed and had her throat slit before her flesh was eaten by the alleged perpetrator in a house in town. This case comes hot on the heels of several others that have been reported in KwaZulu Natal where a man handed himself over to the people after confessing to eating human flesh. It has also emerged that a community in Amangwe in the same province has been practicing cannibalism. In Limpopo police are investigating after it emerged that graves were violated in search of body parts. Police are now looking for 23-year-old Daniel Nephawe from Tshitavha village who may have important information on the cases as well as Eric 'Mapepe" Kwinda a traditional healer. Fundiswa Mhlekude has an update on the latest case in Mount Frere while police spokesperson Captain Edith Mjoko gave us details about the incident and former police profiler and forensic psychologist Professor Gérard Labuschagne explored the issue of cannibalism in modern day society.
Hlaudi Motsoeneng says he will appeal the judgement of the Labour Court in Johannesburg that ordered him and Simon Tebele to pay the legal costs in the case involving the SABC 8 journalists, who were dismissed unlawfully. Motsoeneng says that the ruling was a politically motivated and malicious and that this is the beginning of a long battle.
SADC concluded its investigations last night in trying to find a solution to the country current violent impasse. The Human Rights Organisation in Lesotho criticised the recommendations made by SADC, questioning the turn around of SADC to issues relating to Lesotho.
According to a researcher from the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), Dr Pieter Kotze, the interruption caused by two solar flares unleashed by the sun yesterday is expected to carry out its second phase over the weekend. For more Stephen Kirker to spoke to him
The Labour Court in Johannesburg has ruled that the SABC, its former COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng, and former News Executive Simon Tebele must each pay a portion of the SABC 8's legal costs for their wrongful dismissal.Their legal costs have been estimated at three-million Rand. The eight were illegally dismissed from the public broadcaster after protesting against censorship among other things in 2016. Seven of the eight were subsequently re-instated. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyakgo.
Municipal offices have been re-opened in Vuwani in Limpopo with service provision expected to start today. Limpopo MEC for Cooperative Governance Makoma Makhurupetja stated that this indicates that government has heeded calls by residents to have their area serviced by the Vhembe District Municipality and not the LIM345 municipality. Residents of Vuwani have been protesting against the Municipal Demarcation Board's decision to incorporate some parts of Vuwani into the newly established municipality.
Johannesburg Waste management company, PIKITUP has launched a full investigation following intimidation and vandalism of it's property. This after former Jozi@work employees attacked Pikitup staff while on duty demanding full time jobs from the entity. The programme was scrapped by the DA led coalition administration. It's alleged that these former employees attack Pikitup staff and empty the trash on the street from the trucks.
A crowd funding has been suggested for the Eastern Cape mother who fataly stabbed a man and wounded two others‚ allegedly when she found them gang-raping her 27-year-old daughter. The incident occurred at an unoccupied house in the Qumbu administrative area in Zwartwater‚ near Komani‚ at the weekend. The woman‚ who is from Lady Frere‚ was arrested on Saturday and appeared in the Lady Frere Magistrate's Court on Monday and was released on R500 bail.
An Eastern Cape mother has describe the moment she allegedly fatally stabbed man and wounded two others‚ allegedly after she found them gang-raping her 27-year-old daughter. The incident occurred in an unoccupied house in the Qumbu administrative area in Zwartwater‚ near Komani‚ at the weekend. The woman‚ who is from Lady Frere‚ was arrested on Saturday and appeared in the Lady Frere Magistrate's Court on Monday and was released on R500 bail.
She can not be named to protect the identity of her daughter.
Steven Kirker speaks to Ronnie Kasrils about the 25th anniversary of the Bhisho massacre...
Labour union Solidarity has told the Labour court that it wants the SABC to also shoulder liability for the legal costs of the so-called SABC 8. Advocate Corne Goosen argued this morning that the public broadcaster was firmly behind the ill-advised and unlawful suspension of the employees who protested against sensoring at the institution. The case seeks to hold former SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng and former News Executive Simon Tebele personally liable for the case brought before the court the journalists. Senior reporter Angela Bolowana is in court.
Joburg City Power says it will be days before power is fully restored in the Joburg inner city. There has been a power outage since Sunday when electricity cables were stolen. Technicians only started repairs this morning because it was not safe to do so earlier as a result of smoke and gases emitted when a fire broke out under a tunnel during the incident of theft. We spoke to Joburg City Power's Sol Masolo.
Police in Vuwani in Limpopo are investigating two cases of malicious damage to property, as a service shutdown continues. Two vehicles had their windows smashed last night at Tshino and Tshivhulana villages. Residents have embarked on a total shutdown of services, demanding that the provincial government implement President Jacob Zuma's directive to have some areas of Vuwani to be serviced by the Vhembe district municipality, and not LIM345. Stephen Kirker spoke to reporter, Witness Tiva...
The situation in Lesotho is calm today following the assassination of army chief Khoantle Motsomotso yesterday. Regional body SADC is sending a delegation to establish the facts around the attack, which left two senior officers dead. The two were killed by Motsomotso's bodyguards after forcing their way into Motsomotso's office. They were being investigated for their role in the murder of the former commander of the Lesotho Defence Force, General Maaparanko Mahao two years ago. We spoke to our correspondent in Lesotho Rapelang Hadebe and International Relations spokesperson Nelson Kgwete.
Limpopo police, investigating the violation of graves, have found nothing inside the coffin of the man whose body they were to exhume today. This has left the residents of Tshitavha Village outside Thoyandou shocked. A 17-year old's confession led police to dig Apheus Phundulu's grave. Last week a decapitated body, was exhumed. The teenager told the police that she and her ex-husband had dug up two graves to remove body parts. She is now under police protection. Our reporter Rhudzani Tshivasi is on site.
The ANC in KwaZulu Natal is expected to visit the family of the late former ANCYL national secretary-general Sindiso Magaqa this afternoon. Magaqa died in hospital yesterday after he and two others were shot by unknown people two months ago. Magaqa was an ANC councilllor in Umzimkhulu at the time of his death. The party says it's determined to get to the bottom of the current spate of political killings in the province. Njabulo Nzuza, the ANC Youth League Secretary General says Magaqa was a humble and dedicated ANC leader.
Details around a shooting incident which has taken place at the home of Lesotho's army general are still sketchy. Sounds of gunfire were heard earlier today. It is still unclear if there were any injuries or deaths resulting from the shooting. Our reporter Rapelang Hadebe is in Lesotho. We will bring you an update as the story unfolds.
The Pro-Makhado Task Team has once again declared a total shutdown of services in the area. It accuses the provincial government of failing to implement President Jacob Zuma's decision that the community temporarily get services from the Vhembe District Municipality. Residents of Vuwani and surrounding villages in Limpopo held a mass meeting this morning at a local stadium to discuss a way forward. Pro-Makhado Task Team Spokesperson Nsovo Sambo gave us the details.
Efforts to restore power in the Joburg CBD are underway. There has been no electricity since the early hours of yesterday morning. Major businesses have been affected by the outage. We spoke to City Power spokesperson Sol Masolo.
Political analysts believe that more mudslinging will follow as the ANC presidential contest heats up. This follows weekend reports alleging that deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa is having extra-marital affairs with several women including those whose studies he and his wife are sponsoring. Ramaphosa has only admitted to having one affair with a Limpopo doctor almost a decade ago. He says this is a smear campaign against him and those who are working to restore the intergrity of the ANC. He was also accused of having physically abused his former wife, an allegation she denied vehemently, saying it was unfortunate that lies were being told about Ramaphosa in order to discredit him ahead of the ANC's national elective conference in December. Nonhlanhla Radebe is one of the women alleged to have dated Ramaphosa. She is a member of the Sefako Makgatho branch of the ANC in the Johannesburg CBD and spoke to Stephen Kirker.
Nonhlanhla Radebe who is accused of having an affair with deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa, has denied the reports. Radebe is speaking out after a report by the Sunday Independent linked her to Ramaphosa in what some analysts and Ramaphosa himself has labelled a smear campaign against him. He is vying for a position as president of the ANC when the national elective conference takes place in December. He has only admitted to having one affair with a Limpopo doctor almost a decade ago.He was recently accused of having physically abused his former wife, an allegation she denied vehemently. Radebe says the only link between her and Ramaphosa is that they are both members of the ANC.
The Gauteng government is launching a multi-million rand waste picking initiative aimed at incorporating informal waste pickers into the mainstream economy. Gauteng Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile says the initiative will contribute positively to job creation.
The Gauteng Education Department says its programme aimed at helping school learners get their learner driver's licences has benefited 20 000 youngsters. The comment comes on the back of a picket by the Democratic Alliance Youth in Gauteng outside the provincial Department of Education. The youth organisation says driver licences empower the youth to be better prepared for job opportunities and that they want MEC Panyaza Lesufi to show commitment. Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona says the department has succeeded in fulfilling its promise.
The school governing body at Bothitung High School outside Kuruman in the Northern Cape is expected to meet later today to discuss the way forward after it was discovered that 30 learners have been impregnated, allegedly, by their teachers. It is also alleged that the teachers coerced the learners to sleep with them by offering them money. Our reporter Neo Bodumela is on the story.
About 30 learners at the Bothitung High School outside Kuruman in the Northern Cape, are reportedly pregnant. It is alleged that they were impregnated by their male teachers. It is also alleged that there were arrangement of payments by the teachers to coerce the learners to sleep with them. The school governing body is expected to meet today to discuss the way forward. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporter Neo Bodumela who is at the school...
The families of the men whose graves were allegedly desecrated and body parts sold to a local traditional healer have welcomed efforts by the police to investigate the case. This comes after a 17-year old girl at Tshitavha village in Limpopo confessed at a tribal meeting that she and her former husband visit the local cemetery at night and exhumed bodies in order to remove body parts. The girl's family is worried about her safety. She has left her husband to return to her family at Tshitavha outside Thohoyandou. Police spokesperson Motlafela Mojapelo says they have concluded the exhumation process.
The Constitutional Court says new property owners cannot be held liable for debt owed to municipalities by the sellers. Property owners in the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane Metros took the matter to court and arguments were heard in the highest court in the country earlier this year. They sought confirmation of a ruling by the High Court in Pretoria which stated that new home owners cannot be forced to pay debt incurred by the previous owner. Director at Mohamed and Leon Attorneys, Ismaiel Mohamed analysed the decision for us.
The families of the men whose graves were allegedly desecrated and body parts sold to a local traditional healer have welcomed efforts by police to investigate the case. This comes after a 17 year old girl at Tshitavha village in Limpopo confessed at a tribal meeting that she and her ex husband visit the local cemetery at night and exhume bodies for body parts. The family of the girl is worried about her safety. She has left her husband to return to her family at Tshitavha outside Thohoyandou. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporter Rudzani Tshivhase and police spokesperson Motlafela Mojapelo...
The Women's Legal Centre is in the Western Cape High Court today to try and force the government to pass laws that will protect women who have entered into Muslim marriages. The non-profit organisation says such marriages are not legally recognised and are skewed in favour of men. Women are often left destitute when a man divorces them or dies. Director of the Women's Legal Centre Seehaam Samaai gave us insight into the case.
Mining company Harmony Gold says it has been a difficult time for everyone at the mine after three of its workers died following a seismic event at Kusasalethu Mine in Carletonville on Gauteng's west rand on Friday. Rescue Operations for the two remaining miners are still underway. We spoke to Harmony Gold spokesperson, Marian van der Walt and Director of the Wits Centre for Mechanised Mining Systems, Professor Declan Vogt.
The Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises says it is yet to be informed formally by Parliament about the exact details of the resources that will be allocated as it begins its probe into state capture. The committee is expected to start the inquiry next month. There had been some delays in the inquiry due to lack of resources. This inquiry comes after former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela recommended that a Judicial commission of inquiry be set up to investigate allegations that the controversial Gupta family have captured the state and in the process gained billions of rands from tenders. We spoke to Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee Zukiswa Rantho.
An engineering professor at Stellenbosch University believes a smart meter based system, if installed at all Western Cape schools, could save up to 15 million litres of water a day. The system has been a proven success at a pilot project at a Stellenbosch Primary school, saving the school the equivalent of two junior teachers' salaries per month. We spoke to Professor Thinus Booysen who is the project leader.
A Political Analyst based at the Nelson Mandela University Ongama Mtimka says the stand off between the UDM and the DA at the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro is having a negative impact on service delivery. The metro's deputy mayor Mongameli Bobani who is a UDM leader was ousted yesterday during a vote of no confidence. The UDM has threatened to pull out of the DA led coalition if that party does not re-instate Bobani. DA Federal Chairperson James Selfe says it would be unfortunate for the UDM to pull out of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro coalition. Mtimka says these clashes that having been happening for months are having a negative effect on service delivery.
The issue of women's rights to own land was on the spotlight during a conference hosted by Habitat for Humanity in Pretoria. The gathering had women from all walks of life across Africa contributing to discussion about land governance and management in Africa. Tamzin Hudson, advocacy specialist for Habitat for Humanity International gave us insight into the issue.
Save South Africa (SAVESA) has cut its link with the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC) following a letter from concerned activists. The concerns are about the activities of Lawson Naidoo, who is executive secretary of CASAC and who was then on the steering committee of Save SA, and Prof. Richard Calland, a UCT professor who is a member of the CASAC Executive Committee. Both are founding partners in a risk analysis company called The Paternoster Group. The third founding partner was Ian Farmer, CEO of Lonmin at the time of the Marikana massacre. The letter-writers raised concerns about the foreign corporations that The Paternoster Group works with, about the use by Naidoo and Calland of their position in civil society to promote their business venture, about their sources of income, and about the link to Marikana. When we approached Mr Naidoo for a comment or reaction to this matter, he said he was not available. Prof. Calland said that he was never involved with SAVESA and that he's still with CASAC. Earlier on I spoke to Political commentator, Prof Dumisani Hlophe to look into the role of civil organisations and their funders.
British American Tobacco South Africa says illicitly traded tobacco products cost the country up to R6 billion in lost tax revenue. The company is holding an Imbizo with other stakeholders to try and find a solution. We spoke to BATSA Director of Legal and External Affairs, Bongumusa Makhathini.
Following the recent spate of women being raped in Taxis, a National Taxi Charter has been drafted. According to Soul City Institute for Social Justice, over 2000 people contributed to this process. Soul City Institute's Advocacy Manager, Matokgo Makutoane gave us details about the charter.
SAA has told Standing Committee on Public Accounts in parliament that it is annually paying about three point five billion rand for leasing aircrafts. The airline made huge lossses in the last five years and also changed CEO's five times. Scopa also wanted to know why it took so long to act against theft allegations amounting to millions of Rands. SAA Board Chairperson Dudu Myeni also blamed R300 Million of losses the airline could have made had it contuned the Abu Dhabi route on a misrepresentation by a former employee. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC parliamentary correspondent, Lulama Matya
Poverty in South Africa is on the rise. This is according to a report released by Statistics South Africa this morning. It says more than fifty percent of the country's citizens are living below the poverty line. Children are worse affected it shows. However, the survey also reveals that despite this, there is a general improvement from what the situation was like ten years ago where almost seventy percent of the population was poor. Statistician-General Dr. Pali Lehohla says children are worst affected.
The SABC has learned that one of the MP's signatures was fraudulently included in a document that led to the removal of Makhosi Khoza as chairperson of Parliament's public service and administration Portifolio Committee. This comes as ANC MPs who boycotted a meeting of the committee because Khoza was chairing it, face disciplinary action. Spokesperson for the ANC Chief Whip Nonceba Mhlauli gave us clarity on the matter.
Veteran journalist and SABC's Radio News Johannesburg Assignment Editor, Zola Ntutu has been described as a fearless journalist. 51-year-old Ntutu was found dead at his apartment in Kennilworth south of Johannesburg. He had been ill for some time. Ntutu joined the SABC in the early nineties as a reporter and extensively covered the truth and Reconciliation Commission. SABC Group executive of News Kenny Makatees who worked with Ntutu during those days says Ntutu was a hard worker. Senior reporter and Acting Assignment Editor Tshepo Pagane also talks about how Ntutu mentored him.
The SABC has learned that one of the MPs signatures was fraudulently included in a document that led to the removal of Makhosi Khoza as chairperson of Parliament's public service and administration Portfolio Committee. This comes as ANC MPs who boycotted a meeting of the committee because Khoza was chairing it, face disciplinary action. Spokesperson for the ANC's Chief Whip Nonceba Mhlauli gave us clarity.
Two suspects who have been arrested on charges of public violence in Majakaneng in the North West are expected to appear in court today. Residents there have been protesting for two weeks now after 24-year old Tebogo Ndlovu disappeared. A local farmer is alleged to have shot him and two others who were injured but Ndlovu is yet to be found. The community closed the N4 for much of last week demanding that the farmer who has fled, be arrested. We spoke to North West police spokesperson Sabata Mokwabone.
Gupta-owned Oakbay says it has decided to sell its businesses ANN7 and The New Age in order to save more 7 500 jobs. In a surprise move, the company announced that it has sold the Infinity Media and TNA to Mzwanele Manyi's company Lodilox, for R 450 million. Oakbay says it also wants to focus on clearing its name which has been implicated in acts of corruption following leaked emails. At least four banks have cut ties with Oakbay but they have not yet revealed their reasons, citing client confidenciality clauses. Stephen Kirker spoke to new owner, Mzwanele Manyi
A Limpopo man will tonight embark on a 100 km walk from Polokwane to Tzaneen to highlight the plight of fathers who are denied access to their children. Nyiko will start his journey at 10pm tonight and he expects to reach Tzaneen on Saturday afternoon. He says this initiative was inspired by his own personal experiences, of being denied access to his four year old son for almost two years now by his former wife. We spoke to Nyiko whose surname we will not reveal in order to protect his minor son as well as Chief Family Advocate Petunia Seabi-Mathope.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein has set aside a high court judgment ordering the release of Janusz Walus on parole. The SCA upheld Justice Minister Michael Masutha's appeal after the High Court in Pretoria earlier set aside his decision NOT to grant Walus parole. Janusz Walus and the late Clive Derby-Lewis were jailed for Hani's murder 24 years ago. Stephen Kirker spoke to Justice Minister Michael Masutha
An expert says the department of health should consider standardizing the payment of claims relating to negligence and medical malpractice by doctors and nurses at public institutions, if it is to minimise legal costs. The Gauteng Health Department has taken to the Constitutional Court today to seek reprieve from paying out more than 13 billion rand owed to litigants. It says paying out all outstanding claims immediately, will bring the province's health service delivery programmes to a halt because of budget constraints. Treasury allocates R40 billion to the department annually. Now the department is arguing in court, that there is no clear provision in the law that prevents it from paying claimants in installments. The national minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi has also raised a red flag over the exorbitant fees charged by lawyers whom he says are at times unscrupulous. Associate Professor and Head of Programme of Bio & research Ethics and Medical Law at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Sylvester Chima says the department must apply a system similar to what the Road Accident Fund is now using. Chima says dealing directly with the litigants will help the department reduce legal costs.
Research organisation Benchmark Foundation says there has been little improvement since the Marikana tragedy five years ago. Executive Director John Capel says they are particularly concerned about the issue of housing for the workers of Lonmin, the employer of those killed during strike over wages in 2012. The comment as the country remembers the tragedy today. NGOs and political parties are in Marikana outside Rustenburg in the North West to honour the memory of those who died.
The Moerane Commission sitting in Durban has heard that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) in KwaZulu-Natal is dysfunctional. The commission was set up to probe political killings in Kwzulu Natal. Stephen Kirker spoke to our reporter Fanele Mhlongo
The Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) which represents the families of 34 miners who were killed by the police has confirmed that government has made a settlement offer to the families. Director of investigations at SERI Nomzamo Zondo says the families are still considering it. This comes as South Africa commemorates the fifth anniversary of the killing of the miners as well as the 10 security guards and police officers slain in the lead up to the August 16 incident. Zondo says the offer is for 33 of the 34 miners murdered on August 16 and 3 of the those killed three days prior.
Gauteng Community Safety MEC, Sizakele Nkhosi-Malobane says law enforcement agencies in the province are investigating the assault allegations leveled against Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe. The allegations surfaced after a young South African woman claimed that Mugabe assaulted her at a hotel in Sandton, North of Johannesburg at the weekend. Unconfirmed reports claim that Mugabe attacked the woman after finding her with her two sons. Stephen Kirker spoke to Gabriella Engels who claims that Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe assaulted her.
Zimbabwe's first lady Grace Mugabe has handed herself over to the police after Gabriella Engels lay charges of assault against her. Engels alleges that Mugabe attacked her while she was sitting in the hotel room of a mutual friend of hers and Mugabe's sons in Sandton Joburg. Engels says one of her friends was also assaulted but says the Mugabe brothers were not in the room at the time. Engels has posted pictures of her wounds on social media showing a big gash on her forehead as well as her head.
The Sunday Times says it stands by its report on the ANCWL's response to questions regarding Deputy Higher Education Minister Mduduzi Manana who has been charged with assaulting a woman. The Sunday Times reported that ANCWL president Bathabile Dlamini said that Deputy Higher Education Minister Mduduzi Manana was not the only one and that there are others who have done far worse. The league earlier dismissed the paper's article as a misleading false narrative. Dlamini apparently said they would not call for Manana's removal from government because the charges against him were being used as a political tool. The newspaper says it stands by its report and has subsequently released the recording of an interview that Political Editor Sibongakonke Shoba did with ANCWL President Bathabile Dlamini. Check the timeslive website for more http://bit.ly/2vwC9yO
The 19 year old boy who was arrested on Friday after a video showing him assaulting a fellow female learner went viral on social media, has appeared in the Ntuzuma Magistrates Court, north of Durban court today. He is facing a charge of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He was handed over to the police by his father. The incident took place at Siyathuthuka High School last year but came to light on the large social media platform last week. We spoke to Colonel Thembeka Mbhele.
A veld fire has destroyed at least 15 homesteads and left scores of people homeless at Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape. A number of residents had to be admitted to hospital for smoke inhalation following last night's fire. Mhlanga and Debese villages were the most affected by the fire which was fanned by strong winds. Eastern Cape Government Spokesperson Sonwabo Mbananga says the situation is serious.
Fears are mounting that there might be an outbreak of violence in Kenya following opposition leader Raila Odinga's announcement that he won the elections, even although the country's Independent Electoral Board is yet to release final results. In 2008, 1400 people died and over half a million were displaced. People died following clashes between rival parties over disputed election results. Observers declared Tuesday's elections free and fair saying any complaints that parties had must be taken to the relevant bodies. The final election results are expected to be announced today. We spoke to Programme Manager for Governance and APRM at the South African Institute for International Affairs Yarik Turianskyi.
African Union Observer mission Chairperson former president Thabo Mbeki, says the voting process in the Kenyan elections has been balanced and fair. Mbeki was speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi today. Kenyans cast their ballots on Tuesday in a much contested election which saw rivals opposition leader Raila Odinga and the incumbent Uhuru Kenyata square off. Mbeki says the elections were peaceful and that there was no deliberate attempt to prevent voters from casting their ballots. Mbeki also had a meeting with opposition leaders to discuss concerns about possible vote rigging. Opposition leader Raila Odinga told the media yesterday that the electronic voting system had been hacked. Mbeki says they have encouraged all stakeholders to work together in order to address any concerns brought forward.
The Council for Geo-Sciences has confirmed that there was an earth tremor just five kilometres away from the Geldenhuys pedestrian bridge which collapsed over the N3 highway near Germiston east of Johannesburg yesterday. Five people were injured as the bridge fell onto four vehicles in the early hours. Professor Mitchell Gohnert, from the Wits University School of Civil and Environmental Engineering says this incident could be because of lack of maintenance of infrastructure.
Deputy Higher Education Minister, Mduduzi Manana has arrived at the Randburg magistrate's court north of Johannesburg, where he's expected to appear on assault charges. Two women complained that he'd attacked them at the Cabana night club in Fourways last weekend. Manana earlier apologized for the incident. There have been many calls for him to resign or step down. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula is expected to give a further briefing on the incident shortly. Stephen Kirker spoke to Police Minister Spokesperson Vuyo Mhaga...
Contesting presidential hopefuls President Uhuru Kenyatta and his main political rival Raila Odinga have cast their votes in a hotly contested Kenyan election. Millions of people braved the early morning chill to cast their ballots in a tense but peaceful day of presidential elections. Our East African correspondent Sarah Kimani is watching the elections closely.
The motion of no confidence in president Jacob Zuma debate has begun in Parliament. Opposition parties have been lobbying ANC members in an attempt to get a majority that will see Zuma ousted. The Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mbete announced that the vote will take place in secret. Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo explains how the process will unfold.
The unemployment Rate in South Africa has remained unchanged at 27.70 percent in the second quarter in the first quarter of 2017. According to figures released by Statistics South Africa both employment and unemployment decreased in the second quarter resulting in the unemployment rate remaining unchanged. The construction and agricultural sector show the largest decreases .However, employment gains were observed in trade, Finance, Manufacturing and Utilities. Statistician-General Dr. Phali Lehohla gave us more insight on the numbers
As Kenya takes to the polls tomorrow, stakeholders are puling all stops to ensure that voting is peaceful. International observers are leaving nothing to chance. The presidential elections are pitting incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta against Kenya's former Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Odinga. Our correspondent Sarah Kimani says
The ANC says law enforcement officers must act without fear or favour when conducting their investigation into allegations against the Deputy Minister of Education, Mduduzi Manana, who is accused of assaulting two women at a night club in Fourways, Johannesburg over the weekend. The ANC says the allegations against Manana are concerning and that violence against women should not be tolerated. Manana is said to have attacked the women following a heated debate about the ANC's succession plan as well as gay comments that were made. In a recorded conversation between the brother of one of the women and Manana, the deputy minister is heard admitting that he did beat up the women. We spoke to ANC spokesperson Khusela Sangoni as well as Vuyo Mhaga from the Police Ministry.
SARS Chief Financial Officer Matsobane Matlwa has resigned. According to an internal e-mail sent to the Revenue staff by Commissioner Tom Moyane, Matlwa will serve his notice period at home. SARS says Head of Procurement Johnston Makhubu will act in the position of CFO. Ike Phaahla to SARS spokesperson Luther Lebelo
Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police is due to visit the notorious Glebelands hostel in Umlazi south of Durban. This comes after Parliament Police Portfolio Committee chair, Francois Beukman announced that acting National police Commissioner Lesitja Mothiba is not available to appear before the committee in Durban. Committee members have expressed disappointment and say his unavailability is undermining the committee. Meanwhile The Hawks team investigating political killings in KwaZulu-Natal has made a breakthrough in some murder cases. Ike Phaahla spoke to SABC reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe...
The situation has calmed down at Klipsruit outside Soweto. The community has been up in arms for over a week now demanding that a coloured and not a black principal be appointed at Klipspruit Secondary School. Meanwhile the Department Education has denied that the Department has been captured by SADTU. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo has been following up on the story and we also speak to the Departments Spokesperson Steve Mabona.
The country has been rocked by the sad news of the passing of Rhythm City actor Dumi Masilela. Police also confirmed the attempted hijacking incident that happened in Tembisa which led to local actor & ex soccer player Dumi Masilela's fatal shooting. Masilela, who played the character of 'Sifiso Ngema' on eTV's popular soap opera Rhythm City, was travelling with a friend on Wednesday night when they were attacked. According to police spokesperson Kay Makhubele, their car was shot at, wounding Masilela who died in hospital this morning. We spoke to Police spokesperson Kay Makhubele and Rhythm City's Publicists Mpumi Phillips.
Statistics show that there has been a spike in the number of termination of pregnancies conducted countrywide from 2015 to 2016. Gauteng is the province that has seen a dramatic increase with the 2016 figures having increased to 22 000 from the previous year's 16 000. This information emerged during a parliamentary reply by the Department of Health. But the Director for Women's Health and Genetic in the National Health Department, Dr Manala Makua, says this is not necessarily an increase but an indication that the reporting systems are beginning to function optimally.
A group calling itself Patriots for Equality says coloured people are being marginalised. This after the community of Klipsruit complained about the appointment of a black principal demanding that a coloured one be appointed because the area is pre-dominantly coloured. MEC Panyaza Lesufi intervened last week temporarily appointing another black person while a permanent solution is being sought. The organisation's Sharis Pritorius says the MEC did not follow procedures when he dealt with the issues at the school.
Western Cape Transport Minister, Donald Grant has extended his condolences to the family of an ANC MP who died in a car crash outside Paarl this morning. The deceased, whose name has not yet been released, was travelling with three other MPs as part of their work on the Basic Education Portfolio Committee. The ANC's, Nomalungelo Gina, the DA's, Ian Ollis, and the UDM's, Cynthia Majeke, sustained serious injuries and were taken to the Paarl Medi-Clinic. Grant says the department will work with the police to investigate the circumstances that led to the crash. Bongi Gwala spoke to Spokesperson for Parliament Moloto Mothapo...
Police have arrested eleven suspects and recovered over a thousand SASSA cards, cash and firearms in Nigel on Gauteng's Eastrand. Eight suspects were nabbed after they were found withdrawing money on behalf of SASSA grant recipients. Police were led to a nearby property where they arrested three Chinese nationals. They were found in possession of ID's and SASSA cards. Police believe they were holding these cards as security for lending grant recipients money. Bongi Gwala spoke to Gauteng police spokesperson Kay Makhubele...
SANParks has denied that the strike by members of the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of South Africa (HOSPERSA) at national parks, has affected its services. It says most workers are not on strike and that the contingency measures put in place are effective. HOSPERSA consists of rangers, field guides, cleaners and security guards. The workers allege that their employer is ignoring their demands. The strike was suspended last week after SA National Parks tabled a new offer of 6,1 percent. SANParks runs 19 national parks including prime tourist resorts Kruger National Park, Table Mountain National Park and the Karoo National Park. SANParks Head of Communications Janine Raftopoulos says operations are running smoothly.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says a summit between government, private and public school representatives will be held in September this year to discuss rules, regulations and the country's laws around issues of race and language amongst others. Lesufi met with management of St. Johns College this morning to discuss the rationality behind the school's decision to retain a teacher whom it found guilty of racism. The teacher is said to have made derogatory remarks to Black and Indian learners. Lesufi says he should be expelled and reported to the South African Council of Educators so that he can be barred from this profession. Lesufi says this kind of action cannot be tolerated.
The South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) in the Tshwane region, has accused the City of Tshwane of making unilateral decisions. The union is referring to recent the restructuring of employment processes that will see metro police officers serve as security guards. The city says this move will help cut costs. Union members have marched to the city manager's offices this morning. Security guards staged a picket outside the Mayor's office earlier this month, demanding that they be employed directly by the municipality and not contractors. SAMWU's Deputy Regional Secretary Valentine Matlala spoke to us.
South Africans from all political divides have paid tribute to the late government communicator and political activist Ronnie Mamoepa. They gathered at the Tshwane Events Centre for the main memorial service today. Mamoepa passed away at the age of 56 last Saturday after suffering from a stroke last month. He was the spokesperson for deputy president Cyril Ramaphos at the time of his death. Some of the dignitaries attending the service include Ramaphosa, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma as well as his comrades in the ANC one of whom is Tokyo Sexwale who was in prison with Mamoepa and speaks highly of him.
Workers affiliated to labour union Nehawu are continuing their strike action at the National Health Laboratory Service. The Union says wage negotiations reached a deadlock over a pay increase and other issues. The Laboratory Service provides diagnostic pathology services to government, such as blood tests. Acting CEO at the National Health Laboratories Services in Johannesburg Professor Shabir Madhi says they have put contingency measures in place which have, largely, been working, but adds that there have been some challenges.
The debate over whether to decriminalise sex work continues to rage on. The South African National Aids Council (SANAC) has brought together stakeholders to discuss the matter in the context of public health. The discussion took place this morning in Rosebank, Johannesburg and included representatives from government and other interested NGO's. We spoke to SANAC Acting CEO Dr. Constance Kganakga.
The area of Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape continues with its shutdown today as businesses including banks, shops and some government offices remain closed. Residents looted shops belonging to foreign nationals yesterday during a standoff with police which left two people injured and two suspects arrested. The Sterkspruit Civic Association is demanding water and a proper health system among other things. The chairperson of the Sterkspruit Civic Association Mncebisi Mkotjho gave us an update on the situation.
Political analyst Ralph Mathekga says the EFF has done very well as a new political party even though many people wrote it off. Mathekga's comments comes as the party celebrates the fourth anniversary since its formation today. This will be followed by a party in KwaZulu Natal this weekend, a province which EFF leader Julius Malema says they have to make headway. Malema has emphasised once again that the constitution has to change if black people are to get their land back. The land issue is the at the core of what the party calls non-negotiable pillars. Malema established the party after his explusion from the ANC in 2012 over a statement he made over the land issue and for calling for regime change in Botswana. Mathekga has been more success than other parties that broke away from the ANC.
Tony Tarverna-Turian who is the Legal Advisor to Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba says there's a misconception that the city will not be providing accommodation for foreign nationals who are part of the group of residents evicted in the Johannesburg CBD.
Lawyers for Human Rights have slammed Joburg Mayor, Herman Mashaba for saying foreigners are not the responsibility of the city but rather of national government. Mashaba said he will only provide accommodation for South Africans, adding that it is national government's responsibility to address the issue of foreigners in the country. Stephen Kirker speaks to the Constitutional Expert Professor Pierre de Vos
National Union of Mineworkers to challenge the retrenchment of more than 2500 people at Bokoni Platinum Mine in Limpopo. The company is citing profit losses for the decision. This will increase the number of people losing their jobs in the mining sector. Stephen Kirker speaks to The National Union of Mineworkers Limpopo Secretary Phillip Mankge.
More than two and a half thousand people are set to lose their jobs at Bokoni Platinum Mine in Limpopo, when the mine temporarily goes on a maintenance break in two months time. The company is citing profit losses for the decision. This will increase the number of people losing their jobs in the mining sector. Last month mining company AngloGold Ashanti announced that it was considering laying off eight thousand workers. The National Union of Mineworkers says it is concerning that so many people will lose their jobs. Stephen Kirker speaks to Joel Kesler, spokesperson for Bokoni Platinum Mine.
A United States‚ Manhattan District Court has ordered an 81-year-old Cape Town businessman Arnold Bengis to cough up $37-million (about R483-million) for illegally fishing in South African waters. The Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries appeared before the Court to argue and convince the Court to order forfeiture of proceeds that he acquired as a result of poaching West Coast Rock Lobster from the South African ocean and illegally exporting that rock lobster to the US in violation of both U.S. and South African law. District Court Judge Lewis Kaplan also sentenced him on Wednesday to more than four years' imprisonment. Acting Chief Director for Monitoring Control & Surveillance at the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries, Thembalethu Vico says they had to pursue this matter until the end in order to send out a strong message.
The late government communicator who was also an anti-apartheid activist Ronnie Mamoepa, has been praised for his contribution to the liberation of South Africa. Mamoepa died over the weekend at Unitas hospital in Pretoria after suffering a stroke last month. Mamoepa, an ANC member was imprisoned on the notorious Robben Island by the apartheid government, on terrorism charges. He was only eighteen years old at the time. He was part of the group known as the "Atteridgeville Nine". Dan Montsitsi who inducted new prisoners on Robben Island says Mamoepa persevered throughout all the hardships of prison life.
The International Monetary Fund IMF has forecast global economic growth of 3.5 percent this year and 3.6 percent for the year 2018. The IMF says the world economy is making steady progress as it recovers from the financial crisis which happened under a year ago. It has raised its predicted growth for many Euro-zone countries but lowered it for the US. The IMF's forecast for South Africa remains bleak at 1 to 1.2 per cent, despite a slight uptick. Chief Economist at Pan African Capital Holdings, Dr Iraj Abedian gave us his perspective on the issue.
The South African Reserve Bank has launched the Monetary Policy Committee Schools Challenge in Pretoria. Learners will be given an opportunity to become central bank governors for a few months setting policy and analysing markets. This programme is targeting learners who are studying Mathematics and Economics. It was first tested in Gauteng but will now be opened to schools nationwide. Our reporter Maluti Obuseng was at the launch.
The South African Reserve Bank has launched the Monetary Policy Committee Schools Challenge in Pretoria. Learners will be given an opportunity to become central bank governors for a few months setting policy and analysing markets. The programme aims to empower learners who study economics and maths at schools. It was first tested in Gauteng and will now be rolled out countrywide. Our reporter Maluti Obuseng was at the launch.
Scores of residents at Imizamo Yethu informal settlement in Hout Bay Cape Town, have sought refuge at the local police station following yesterday's violent protests where two houses belong to community leaders were torched. Although the situation is calm, police are keeping a close watch. The violence apparently broke out after fifty two shacks erected illegally, were removed in order to make way for infrastructural developments in the area. Chairperson of the Imizamo Yethu Movement and member of the Leadership Forum Mkhululi Ndude, says they want the development to go ahead because it will benefit the residents following devastating fires in March.
The ANC in KwaZulu Natal says their MP Dr. Makhosi Khoza, who has been openly critical of the party's leadership is trying to elevate herself above the party. They have called for disciplinary action to be taken against. Khoza lambasted president Jacob Zuma on Tuesday during a panel discussion with the campaign Save South Africa and the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, at Rhema Bible Church in Randburg, Johannesburg. She said Zuma should step down because he has lost credibility. Khoza has been receiving death threats for months since she started speaking out openly about her thoughts on the ANC leadership. She has now been provided with police protection. ANC spokesperson in KZN Mdumiseni Ntuli says they have already instituted a disciplinary process.
The Eastern Cape government has confirmed that another body of several fishermen who disappeared when their boat capsized over the weekend, has been found in Port Elizabeth. The body of one fisherman who was found on Sunday, has been identified by his family. The boat had 16 fishermen on board when the incident happened in stormy seas in St. Francis Bay. Seven men were rescued and taken to hospital. Eastern Cape Provincial Spokesperson Sonwabo Mbananga gave us more details.
Mxolisi Nyuswa of the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council says they have been deploying teams to hotspots including hostels in the province to monitor the volatile situation that has resulted in political killings. Nyuswa is testifying before the Moerane Commission investigating political killings in the province. He also sighted the competition for councillor position and political power as some of the reasons behind the ongoing killings. He says control over who has oversight on tenders is also at the core of the killings especially of the municipal officials. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is attending the hearings at Glebelands hostel in Umlazi.
Residents of a Johannesburg flat claim they were never given sufficient time before being evicted this morning. Hundreds of Fattis Mansion residents in the Joburg CBD have been thrown out onto the streets with their belongings after the Red Ants acted on a court order. In April this year the High court in Johannesburg granted the building owner an eviction order after he had indicated that he wanted to renovate the dilapidated structure. Stephen Kirker speaks to Sashin Naidoo reports
Social Scientist based at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal Professor Paulus Zulu, who made his presentation at the Moerane Commission, said; In Kwa-Zulu Natal and South Africa as a whole, there is a culture of eliminating the competitor rather than outperforming them. One of his recommendations is that Councillors be appointed based on qualifications.
Hearings into the political killings at Glebelands hostel outside Durban in KwaZulu Natal continue this afternoon. Academic and writer Professor Paulus Zulu has told the Moerane Commission of inquiry today that money and positions are behind the murders at the hostel. The commission is holding public hearings in an attempt to gain an understanding of what's behind the murders. It merged yesterday that 89 people were killed between 2014 and 2016. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe is attending the hearings.
Former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan says current leaders have failed to uphold the highest levels of ethical leadership. He was speaking at a panel discussion to mark the commemoration of the Nelson Mandela Day in Rivonia, north of Johannesburg. Gordhan who was fired by President Jacob Zuma from cabinet in March, has been one of the most outspoken ANC senior leaders against alleged state capture and corruption. Gordhan says the party has forgotten about the people. To put the issue of the so-called leadership crisis and monopoly capital into persepctive, we spoke to political analyst Dumisani Hlophe.
Police have been deployed around the Gautrain station in Sandton Johannesburg following incidents of harassment. Metered taxi drivers have allegedly been preventing Uber drivers from operating in the area. An Uber driver died early this morning from petrol bomb attack injuries in Pretoria. Uber Movement Co-founder and representatives Teresa Munchick has expressed concern about these attacks.
About 3000 security guards say they want their services to be in-sourced by the City of Tshwane. An agreement between the metro and the company that hired the workers is coming to an end this month. Some of these workers will be absorbed but not all of them. We spoke to the representative of the security guards Austen Mofya and Mayoral spokesperson Samkelo Mgobozi.
The killing of eighty nine people at Glebelands Hostel in Umlazi KwaZulu Natal, is the focus of the Moerane Commission which resumed today. The commission is investigating the motive behind the killings which happened between 2014 and 2016. Chairperson advocate Marumo Moerane has made it clear, that the commission is not seeking to replace the work of the police. The hearings will be held until the end of the week. Three ANC councillors were seriously wounded when unknown gunmen opened fire on them following a party meeting on Thursday. Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane also released a report this year, which states that the police and the local municipality failed the residents of Glebelands, by not exercising their duties. Our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe tells us that human rights activist Vanessa Burger was the first to testifying.
The search for the eight missing fishermen is continuing in Cape St Francis, Eastern Cape. One person was confirmed dead and seven others rescued after a boat carrying a 16 men crew capsized. Some of those who were rescued are still in hospital. We spoke to National Sea Rescue Institute spokesperson Craig Lambinon.
Black Lawyers Association members have staged a march at the presidency's offices over what they call the disregard of black and women law practitioners. The association says the state is the biggest consumer of legal services and yet it does not consider black lawyers in its distribution of legal work. We spoke to the president of the Black Lawyers Association Lutendo Sigogo.
Hundreds of nurses trained at private colleges in KwaZulu Natal say they feel aggrieved by the Department of Health's decision not consider them when there are vacancies. The nurses say they are being sidelined even though they are qualified and have been registered with the relevant regulatory bodies. They say that attempts to engage with the department have not yielded any results. Khayi Makhathini who speaks on behalf of the group says they have been without jobs for almost ten years
Researcher from Violence Monitor Mary de Haas, has re-iterated that a commission of inquiry into the political killings in KwaZulu Natal will not help resolve the matter. She was speaking after another incident in which three ANC councillors were shot and wounded following a meeting last night. They are now in a stable condition in hospital where they are being provided with security. Police are investigating. This is what de Haas had to say about the attacks.
Mandisa Dlanga who has worked with the late legendary musician Ray Phiri says he demanded only the best from the artists he worked with. Dlamini was Phiri's backing vocalist for more than three decades. Phiri founded the band Stimela which won several gold and platinum-albums like Fire, Passion and Ecstasy, Look, Listen and Decide as well as the controversial People Don't Talk. He was also awarded the order of Ikhamanga in Silver in 2011 for his contribution to the music industry. Dlanga has described Phiri as a mentor who encouraged her to take her art seriously. Saxophonist McCoy Mrubata who has collaborated with Phiri, says the music giant was always at the forefront of the fight against the exploitation of artists.
The case against Nkosinathi Msimango who is accused of breaking into the offices of Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng in Midrand Johannesburg in March, has been postponed. Msimango appeared at the Randburg Magistrates court this morning and will appear again in August. The case was postponed to allow the state to conduct further investigations. Msimango's lawyer Sammy Mahlangu says he not happy about the postponement.
The ANC has proposed that a tax rebate on medical aid users be redirected into the implementation of the National Health Insurance. Head of ANC Education and Health Policy Naledi Pandor says billions are paid out every year to medical aid holders, and this can be used to accelarate the NHI. She says the tax rebates paid out annually amount to around 22 billion rand which they think would give a very important catalyst to the health sector as they seek to implement the NHI. We spoke to Senior Healthcare Consultant at HealthMan and Free Market Foundation Health Policy Unit member, Dr Johann Serfontein and President of the Health Professionals Council of South Africa, Dr Kgosi Letlape
INTRO: ANC structures in Kwazulu-Natal have called for the removal of outspoken ANC MP Dr Makhosi Khoza. Khoza recently indicated that she will support a vote of no confidence on party and country President, Jacob Zuma. The structures have pronounced her stance as ill-discipline as it will be going against party orders. Meanwhile,Dr Khoza says its hypocritical of the ANC KZN to criticise for making her stance publicly know. Khoza spoke our presenter Elvis Presslin Elvis Presslin. Stephem Kirker also had a conversation with ANC Kwazulu-Natal Chairperson Sihle Zikalala and asked him what disciplinary action they were proposing to take against Dr Khoza as well as political analyst Ralph Mathekga.
Several clinics and hospitals in the North-West have been closed as Nehawu affiliated workers continue with their protest action against the health department in the province. The union is demanding that the department should do away with service providers who are said to be depleting the department's budget. We spoke to Nehawu's North-West Provincial Secretary Patrick Makhafane as well as North-West Health MEC Dr Magome Masike to get both to get some clarity on the issue.
The Black First Land First movement has verbally attacked journalists outside the South Gauteng High court this afternoon, shortly after the court granted the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) an interdict against the BLF. SANEF went to court following a picket outside the home of former Business Day editor Peter Bruce. The BLF led by Andile Mgxitama claims that he and other journalists have been reporting in a biased manner against the controversial Gupta family and not the so-called white monopoly. We spoke to SANEF's deputy chairperson Katy Katopodis.
The Sustainable Livelihoods Foundation says the formal retail sector may be distorting the food economies in the country. The foundation has submitted its written input to the Competition Commission's inquiry into grocery retail sector market's behavioral pattern impact on fair competition. It says this impact is felt in the packaging, processing and production levels and also in the informal grocery retail sector. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by the Sustainable Livelihoods Foundation's Director Dr Leif Petersen
Unemployed doctors and health professionals are marching to the National Health Department in Pretoria to demand that they are given work as per their qualifications. The health professionals claim they have been sidelined when it comes to job placement and now the department is only placing interns. For more on this we are joined on the line by National Health Care Professionals Association deputy President, Dr Prudence Buthelezi
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is expected to make a ruling this afternoon on whether South Africa violated the Roman statue when it failed to arrest Sudanese president Omar Al-Bashir when he came to the coutry two years ago. Al-Bashir was here at the invitation of the African Union. South Africa argued that he was protected according to laws governing the immunity of leaders attending international events on government business. The country has since announced that it has started a process of withdrawal from the ICC, which it says targets mostly Africans and not other world leaders. For a perspective on this we are joined on the line by the Executive Director at the Southern African Litigation Centre Kaajal Ramjathan-Keogh
The special investigative unit the Hawks, say they are probing whether the break-in at its offices early this morning was as a result of an inside job. Several computers have been stolen from its head quarters in Silverton, Pretoria. Hawks spokesperson Brigaier Hangwani Mulaudzi says the documents contain personal information of staff members. There has been a number of security breaches at state institutions recently‚ including a burglary at the offices of the Chief Justice earlier this year.
A meeting between Pikitup and waste-pickers who had been employed as part of its Separate at Source initiative but are now jobless after 3 months, has taken place in Braamfontein Johannesburg. In addition, informal waste pickers fear for their livelihoods over the expanding initiative, which they say they were not consulted about. Pikitup says it did consult waste pickers through the South African Waste Pickers Associations, international organisation WIEGO as well as Waste Pickers operating at Pikitup's landfill sites. We spoke to City of Joburg MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services Nico de Jager.
Seven people have died in a building that caught fire on the corner of Jeppe and Nugget street in Johannesburg CBD. Six victims died inside the building while another one tried to escape the flames by jumping off the building.Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Nana Radebe gave us the details
Swifambo Rail Leasing says it will challenge the Johannesburg High Court ruling declaring its 2013 contract with Passenger Rail Agency, PRASA unlawful. The High Court in Johannesburg has set aside the more than three-billion rand contract, which tasked Swifambo with providing PRASA with new trains. The PRASA Board has indicated that it will engage the Minister of Transport on how to recover the two-point-six billion rand already paid to Swifambo for the new fleet. Meanwhile the Hawks say they are busy with investigations into the PRASA locomotives deal.
Political commentator and Governance Specialist at Unisa School of Governance, Dumisani Hlophe says the ruling party has missed an opportunity to address the main challenge facing the organisation which is leadership.
The death toll in the Mpumalanga accident which happened this morning has risen to 14. The accident happened on R541 road in Baadplaas and Machadorp, where two mini bus taxis collided head on with a truck. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Mthobisi Mkhaliphi
Prisoners countrywide have threatened to embark on a shut down over delays in the parole process for prisoners sentenced to life. A strike recently broke out at the Kgosi Mampuru Correctional facility over the same issue. The inmates are demanding that their matter be prioritised by the Justice and Correctional Services Department. But Correctional Services Spokesperson Logan Maistry says the department is attending to the matter.
The residents of Imizamo Yethu in Cape town are demanding that the mayor comes and address them. They have been protesting for three days now, over what they say is the city's failure to provide them with housing after their homes were gutted by fire recently. The residents have blockaded roads. We spoke to member of the Cape town mayoral committee on safety and social development JP Smith and community leader Lungisa Fuzile.
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Fire relief victims from Imizamo Yethu have blocked roads in the area this morning in a third day of unrest. They say the city has failed to keep their promises to provide them with proper housing. Cape Town police have urged the community of Hout Bay to exercise caution close to a group of protesters, who are estimated at about 500. Our reporter Nadine Speelman joins us on the line with more.....
A political analyst says the controversial statements that the ANCWL continues to make are undermining the agenda that seeks to achieve gender equality. This follows reports that the organisation took a delegation that included six men to the ANC Policy Conference currently underway in Nasrec, South of Johannesburg. The league's president Bathabile Dlamini is said to have justified the move by saying the league needed men because they are not emotional. The organisation has since released a statement denying the report. This was not the first controversial comment that the league has made on uplifting women. In 2013 they said that South Africa was not ready for a female president. It was only last year that they backed Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma as their preferred candidate for president. Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Global Dialogue Sanusha Naidoo gave us her perspective on the issue.
Sandile Matsoe who is accused of killing his girlfriend Karabo Mokoena has been denied bail by the Johannesburg magistrates court. The defence argued earlier that he should be granted bail because the prosecution's case was not strong. Mokoena's charred body was found in a ditch in Lyndhurst north of Johannesburg in April. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo was there.
A political analyst says the ANC will not come out of its policy conference any different from when it starts its policy conference today. The ANC will spend the next six days scrutinizing its policies at a meeting in Johannesurg. In his opening address president Jacob Zuma highlighted, among other issues, his concern about economic growth and unity in the ANC. Political analyst from UNISA's school of governance Dumisani Hlophe, says the ruling party should reflect on the performance of the government it runs.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura says the fire that broke out at his office this morning in Johannesburg was caused by an electrical fault. The 7th floor of the building caught alight just before 9am. All staff members in the building had to evacuated.
The South African Poultry Association says there are no concerns about humans contracting the Avian Flu that has affected some parts of the country. There is an outbreak on farms in Mpumalanga and the Free State. Hundreds of chicken have been culled in an attempt to contain the spread of the disease. Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique and Botswana are among countries that have banned chickens from South Africa, but the association's CEO Kevin Lovell says the countries are within their rights to do so because this is standard procedure when there is an outbreak of such a disease. We also spoke to Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu Natal Dr. Loyd Baiyegunhi about the economic impact of this outbreak.
Schools have been ordered not to favour any one religion by the Johannesburg High Court. Judge Willem van der Linde has delivered judgment in the Organisation for Religious Education and Democracy (OGOD) and six public schools challenge about the Christian focused culture of the public schools. We also spoke to Freedom of Religion South Africa's Executive Director Michael Swain and Religious Expert Dr Thivhilaeli Nedohe.
Home Affairs Director-General Mkuseli Apleni has taken Parliament through the process that was followed before the controversial Gupta family was given naturalisation status in the country. Apleni went into great detail about the process and the laws governing it when he addressed the Committee on Home Affairs this afternoon. It emerged recently that then Minister of Home Affairs Malusi Gigaba who is said to have closed links with the family, granted the Guptas citizenship even though their application was rejected a few months before. Apleni also talked to the issue of funds brought into the country by the family.
Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) president Joseph Mathunjwa has handed over a house to the family of the late Mgcineni Noki also knows as 'The man in the Green Blanket'‚ who became the face of the deadly wage strike at Marikana five years ago. Following the Marikana massacre in August 2012, Amcu established a trust fund to address the three key pillars of housing, education and skills development in order to assist the widows and families of the 37 slain mineworkers of Marikana. AMCU President Joseph Mathunjwa spoke to us.
The Constitutional Court says the Speaker must decide on a secret ballot in the interest of all South Africans as there is no legal for basis for the court to order this. Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng just delivered judgment in the application for a secret ballot to be allowed in Parliament in a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma. The UDM, which is supported by other opposition parties, brought the application. Zuma and National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete have been cited as the main respondents in the case. Here is Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng's judgment and UDM leader Bantu Holomisa's reaction to it. The UDM took the matter to court.
Auditor-General Kimi Makwetu says communities must hold their municipalities accountable. Makwetu released an audit report for the 2015-2016 financial year yesterday, which shows that most municipalities are wasting millions of rands. The Western Cape came out tops again at 80 prcent, with a clean audit with KwaZulu following at a low 18 percent and the Eastern Cape at 16 percent. Only one municipality received a clean audit in Gauteng and that was the Midvaal. Makwetu says communities have to be interested in how their municipalities are run if they are to hold officials responsible. He has also revealed that the office of the AG wants more powers. We spoke to the Director for Municipal Audit Reports at the South African Local Government Association Mohammed Logart and Deputy Minister of the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Andries Nel.
Auditor-General Kimi Makwetu says communities must hold their municipalities accountable. Makwetu released an audit report for the 2015-2016 financial year yesterday, which shows that most municipalities are wasting millions of rands. The Western Cape came out tops again at 80 prcent, with a clean audit with KwaZulu following at a low 18 percent and the Eastern Cape at 16 percent. Only one municipality received a clean audit in Gauteng and that was the Midvaal. Makwetu says communities have to be interested in how their municipalities are run if they are to hold officials responsible. He has also revealed that the office of the AG wants more powers. We spoke to the Director for Municipal Audit Reports at the South African Local Government Association Mohammed Logart and Deputy Minister of the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Andries Nel.
Constitutional law expert, Pierre De Vos says Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane has overstepped her power with her remedial action requiring Parliament to amend the Constitution regarding the Reserve Bank's monetary policy. She made the announcement yesterday. The South African Reserve bank plans to challenge her findings. ANC secretary general, Gwede Mantashe has also described Mkhwebane's move as "Public Protector overreach". De Vos says Mkhwebane is subject to the law and the Constitution. He spoke to Stephen Kirker on Midday Live
The Law Society says it is still early to make a decision on whether to take action against Gupta lawyer Gert Van der Merwe. It has emerged that Van der Merwe helped the Health MEC in Limpopo Mirriam Segabutla and businessman Johnny Lucas, launder money through his business' trust account. The lawyer says he used the funds to pay for the MEC's personal needs. Van der Merwe was arrested three years ago and then later released on condition that he becomes a state witness. We spoke to Co-Chairperson of the Law Society Walid Brown.
Gauteng Forensic Pathology workers in Diepkloof Soweto say they are being forced to perform autopsies despite not being qualified to do so. The workers were complaining of poor working conditions, the cancellation of danger allowance and low salaries. Yesterday workers and officials from the Gauteng Health Department met and agreed to end the go-slow. Nehawu's Spokesperson Tshegofatso Moralo and Gauteng Health Department spokesperson Khutso Rabothata spoke to us to clarify the issue.
The Western Cape Disaster Management is appealing to the public to assist as they continue battling raging fire in Knysna in the Southern Cape. Yesterday, thousands of people were evacuated in and around Knysna in areas including Brenton, Belvedere, Welbedacht, Nania and Knysna Heights. Disaster management has requested helicopters, army personnel and water bunkers to be deploy to the area. Up to 10-thousand evacuations have taken place from seven areas already as the raging fires continue
The UDM is proposing that the Auditor-General and the Hawks to be brought in to resolve the deadlock in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro's governing coalition. UDM leader Bantu Holomisa has written to leaders of the parties in the coalition, noting the severe lack of trust between the executive mayor, Athol Trollip of the DA, and his deputy, the UDM's Mongameli Bobani. Holomisa wants the two agencies to probe all allegations and counter-allegations by the two senior officials
Youth employment accelerator Harambee says since 2011 it has successfully matched 350 employers looking for entry-level talent to 35, 000 young, high-potential work-seekers locked out of the formal economy and looking for work. The organisation was expected to brief media this morning about youth un/employment. We are now joined on the line by Harambee's operations manager, Josh Jansen to tell us more.
MKVA's Kebby Maphatsoe says they dont know why MKVA Council is rushing for President Zuma to step down as he is not contesting for party leadership in December. Maphatsoe says they have invited the SACP and other structures and will continue engaging them on their attitude to the President. MKVA will be hosting its national elective conference from the 9th to the 11th of June. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by our Senior Politics Reporter Ntebo Mokobo
The Democratic Alliance (DA) together with Economic Freedom Fighters and Eskom have reached an agreement that Brian Molefe will not be returning to his position at Eskom pending the Labour court ruling. This follows Molefe's Labour Court application, challenging his dismissal by the Board of the power utility.
The Life Esidimeni Family Committee has today given an update on the progress made since the Health Ombud's recommendations. One on the issues raised by the committee is that of some families who have refusing to relocate to other facilities provided by government. A member of the Family Committee, Christine Nxumalo says familes are refusing to relocate because of fear of what happened before during the Life Esidimeni transfer process
ANC Secretary General Gwede Mantashe says the Veterans 101 are a disgruntled group of people and not an ANC structure.
The MK Veterans National Council says it will not attend, nor form part of the upcoming ANC National Policy Conference (NPC). The stalwarts have been calling for a consultative conference to take place before the NPC, and were given two days by the ruling party to hold the conference. The Council's General Sphiwe Nyanda says there has been a lack of communication by the ANC NEC and two days is just not enough.
The Department of Social Development has officially launched Child Protection Week at an event in Langa outside Cape Town on Sunday. According to research conducted by the Institute for Security Studies into violence against women and children, More than 50 percent of children in society experience violence at the hands of the people who should be caring for them. Stephen Kirker speaks to Associate Professor Shanaaz Mathews, Director of the Children's Institute at the University of Cape Town
Wits alumni, through the South African Student Solidarity Foundation for Education, SASSFE, have raised and donated R250 000 to the Masidleni, translating to Let's Eat, which is a Daily Meal Project at the University. Stephen Kirker spoke to Kenneth Creamer, former Wits SRC President and a member of South African Student Solidarity Foundation for Education
In celebration of Africa Day today, we are looking at the Economic Outlook According to a report, titled EY's Attractiveness Program Africa 2017, overall economic growth in Africa is likely to remain robust, relative to most other regions over the next decade. On the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) front, the report found that South Africa retained its appeal as a launchpad for growth across the continent, with North African countries making inroads in attracting foreign investment. The report also found that during 2016, capital investment into Africa rose 31.9percent. South Africa is leading with and increase of 6.9% in FDI or 139 projects. Morocco was second, with 81 projects led by its automotive sector, and Egypt was the third beneficiary with 79 projects, followed by Nigeria with 51 projects and Kenya with 40 projects. Meanwhile, the 27th World Economic Forum, which was held in Durban, highlighted both opportunities and challenges facing the continent. Francious Conradie from NKC Africa Economics to gave us more insight into Africa's economy.
The IFP has reclaimed the municipality of Nquthu in KwaZulu Natal following a hotly contested by-election. The party won 14 of the 17 ward in a voter turn out that improved from last year's. Political Analyst Lukhona Mnguni has warned that this shift by voters could be a sign of what is to come in 2019.
Our reporter Horisani Sithole has exposed a world of forced prostitution and drugs trading in Springs on Gauteng's east rand. Sithole recently went undercover. The people behind this continues to operate even though a man believed to be the owner of the house where these activities are happening was arrested. Young girls are said to be parading along the streets.
Dozens of Ethiopian nationals have protested outside the Kwaaiman periodic court in Mqanduli in the Eastern Cape, demanding seven armed robbery suspects not be granted bail. They allege that one of their countryman is the mastermind behind the robberies and the killing of a number of foreign nationals owning shops during the past four years. The case has been postponed to the first of next month. Nkululeko Nyembezi was there and filed this report…..
The atmosphere in Nquthu in KwaZulu Natal is calm and political parties are displaying an air of tolerance. The municipality is holding much contested by-elections. 14 political parties are contesting 33 seats in the council, which were left vacant when the MEC for Corporate Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), dissolved the council because infighting prevented the council from electing representatives. This meant that services were not being provided to residents. Our reporters Nonkululeko Hlophe and Khalesakhe Mbhense are in the area of Maduladula and Emaqhudeni respectively. They spoke to Stephen Kirker.
A group of inmates from Leeuwkop prison in Johannesburg took the department of correctional services to court over their due transfer to Kgosi Mampuru in central Pretoria. The case was thrown off court at the Johannesburg high court this afternoon. Stephen Kirker chatted to reporter Angela Bolowana and spokesperson for the inmates Daniel Mabetoa.
The City of Cape Town has reportedly sent in divers to clean dam floors so that the last 10 percent of usable water may be used. Dam levels are at 21 percent with only eleven percent usable. Stephen Kirker chatted to Sputnik Ratau, spokesperson for the Department of Water and Environmental Affairs.
About 538 schools in Limpopo province, reporterdly, still do not have text books five months into the new academic year. The Portfolio Committee on Education mentioned in its presentation last week that grades 10 and 11 learners are still without maths and science textbooks. The Mopani and Vhembe Districts are said to be the ones most affected by the shortage. Limpopo Education department Spokesperson Dr Naledzani Rasila says they were let down by service providers.....
Non-profit organisation Women and Men against Child Abuse approached the High Court in Johannesburg in an effort to change the law to ensure that the legal system acknowledges the seriousness of all sexual violence cases, regardless of the elapsed time since the offence. At present the law provides a statute of limitations of 20 years for some crimes. Stephen Kirker chatted to The organisation's Founding Director Miranda Jordan-Friedmann.
Four more bodies believed to be those of illegal miners have been retrieved at the disused Harmony Gold mine in Welkom, Free State. This brings to a total of 29 bodies recovered from the same mine since last week Thursday. Meanwhile, mine rescue services are currently busy with their search for more bodies believed to be still trapped underground. Stephen Kirker chatted to Major General Lerato Molale of the Welkom police.
SACP's national Imbizo was held in Boksburg east of johannesburg today. The imbizo seeked solutions to challenges the country is currently facing. Its also expected to discuss interventions from sectors of society such as Alliance partners, religious and civil society movements who were in attendence. SACP General Secretary Blade Nzimande addressed the masses.
Another young woman survives a abduction attempt after three men forced her into their car outside UNISA's Florida campus in Roodepoort on Tuesday afternoon. She spoke to Midday Live's Anchor Stephen Kirker on condition that her identity is not revealed.
The place of religion in South Africa's public schools has come under scrutiny as the Gauteng High Court hears the case of Organisasie vir Godsdienste-Onderrig en Demokrasie (OGOD) v Laerskool Randhart & Others. OGOD's Afrikaans name translates into "Organisation for Religions Education and Democracy" in English. The organisation is taking on six public schools to prohibit them from identifying themselves as Christian and to outlaw their Christian practices. It argues that it is unconstitutional for a public school to promote a single religion.
Motorists using the R49 road linking Mahikeng to Zeerust in the North West, have been advised to use alternative routes as residents of a small farming town of Ottoshoop just outside Mahikeng have embarked on violent service delivery protests since this morning. They have blockaded roads with burning tyres and debris. Resident have also been pelting cars with stones.
Police have been commended for the swift arrest of the suspects in connection with the murder of former Generations actor and Jozi FM DJ Mandla Hlatshwayo and his friend Oupa ' Chom Chom' Duma. The pair were shot and killed while trying to assist two women who were being robbed of their cell phones outside a pub in Pimville - Soweto.
Former Mines minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi has revealed shocking events in the period leading up to his dismissal. He says Eskom's CEO Brian Molefe and chairperson Ben Ngubane asked him to suspend Glencore's mining licences. Ramatlodi says the request which was made in 2015 was an effort to put pressure on the commodities firm to sell a coal mine. In the same year, Glencore placed Optimum coal mine under protection from creditors. It later sold it to Tegeta Exploration and Resources, a firm which the Gupta brothers control.
Eskom CEO Brian Molefe is back at work and has addressed employees at the company's headquarters in Johannesburg this morning. Last week on Friday, Eskom board announced that it had reinstated Molefe to his position as CEO following a dispute about his R30 million pension payout. Molefe resigned in November of 2016, citing that his departure was in the interests of "good corporate governance" after he was implicated in the State of Capture report by the Public Protector. Stephen Kirker spoke Eskom's board spokesperson Khulani Qoma who said Molefe received a warm welcome from staff
The Federation of Governing Bodies of South Africa (FEDSAS) and the Organisation for Religious Education and Democracy (OGOD) will battle it out in the High Court in Johannesburg today over the use of religion in schools. The CEO of FEDSAS Paul Colditz says many South Africans are religious people who want to exercise their freedoms. At the end of 2014, non-governmental organisation OGOD went to court to challenge the religious ethos of six schools. Stephen Kirker speaks to MR Colditz
Advocate Dali Mpofu says the purpose of the secret ballot is to protect the voters. Mpofu is representing the UDM in its application to seek an order on whether a secret ballot should be allowed or not when a motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma is debated. The party approached the court after Speaker of the National Assembly Baleka Mbete refused to allow a secret ballot on grounds that she is was not empowered to do so
Police are investigating a case of malicious injury to property and contravention of animal protection act after eleven cattle were shot and killed by a commercial farmer in KwaNobuhle, near Uitenhage in the Eastern Cape. The cattle, which included bulls and pregnant heifers, were shot and killed after straying into a neighbouring commercial farmer's land across the Kruisrivier. The loss is estimated at over R 200-thousand. The family says the carcasses of the cattle are still in the commercial farmer's land and all they want is compensation. Stephen Kirker speaks to Agrarian Reform MEC, Mlibo Qoboshiyane
The Gauteng Department of Education has accused Parktown Boys High of cover up after the school failed to formailly report allegations of sexual abuse by one of its teachers. The department met the school management this morning after it was reported in the media that a teacher has been accused of sexual abuse and a consequent court case. The department is set to launch its own investigations to the matter. Stephen Kirker speaks to Gauteng Education Head of Communications Oupa Bodibe.
Stephen Kirker chatted to economist Mike Cohen from Bloomberg about the current state of the country's economy.
The investigating officer in the bail application of the Nigerian pastor, Tim Omotoso, has told the Port Elizabeth magistrate's court that they found 13 girls at an address the pastor had given them. Dozens of his supporters, mostly women, staged a protest outside the court, demanding his release with a handful of people also there protesting against his bail application. Omotoso faces 22 charges of human trafficking and contravention of Sexual Offences Act against young girls that were allegedly members of his Jesus Dominion International Ministry Church. reporter Olwethu Sota chatted with Stephen Kirker
Former President Thabo Mbeki has been conferred the Doctor of Humane Letters by the Dedan Kimathi University of Technology in Nyeri, Kenya. Our correspondent Sarah Kimani was there.
The 23-year-old man arrested by the hawks in Midrand on Wednesday for an alleged plan to assassinate those he believes were state capture beneficiaries appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate's court this afternoon. Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi says officers intercepted communication material of possible assassinations of several members of the Cabinet, state-owned entities and other prominent South Africans. Sashin Naidoo was in court.
The two men linked to the murder of a 12-year-old boy in Coligny in the North West have appeared in the local magistrates court this morning. The case was delayed for a short while after the presiding Magistrate recused himself from the case with no reasons advanced. Our reporter Zebilon Maine was in court.
The investigating officer in the Jayed Panayiotou murder case, Kanna Swanepoel, took to the stand yet again, for cross examination today. Murder accused Christopher Panayotou's lawyer, Terry Price questioned whether Luthando Siyoni made his statement to the police voluntarily. Siyoni was a state witness that turned hostile. Swanepoel was also questioned about the visible injuries on Siyoni. This forms part of the hearing within a hearing to establish the admissibility of a video made during a sting operation. Our reporter Olwethu Sota updated us.
The High Court in the Western Cape has set aside the government's nuclear deal saying that it's unconstitutional and unlawful. Earthlife Africa brought the application to stop government's nuclear power deal because it was not first debated in Parliament. The deal is estimated to cost one-trillion-rand. This how Judge Lee Bozalek delivered judgment..., Stephen Kirker chatted to Independent Nuclear Expert Andrew Kenny.
Police have confirmed that a large number of community members in Blydeville in Lichtenburg in the North West broke into a company building, removed tyres and set them alight last night. Police have remained on high alert in Lichenburg, Itsoseng and Coligny following violent service delivery protests. Scores of people, including minors have been arrested for public violence following the lotting of properties. Schooling has also been disrupted. and on another story, police have arrested two men in connection to the murder of a 12-year-old boy whose death sparked protests in Coligny North West. Stephen Kirker chatted to our reporters on the field Zeblon maine and Bafedile Moerane.
It remains to be seen if the ANC will be able to get the two thirds majority it needs to change the law relating to demarcations which will see its deal with the African Independent Congress come to fruition. The two parties signed a memorandum of understanding yesterday after years of consultations as well as threats on the controversial Matatiele demarcation issue. The municipality was incorporated into the Eastern Cape province from KwaZulu Natal, a move which angered the residents resulting in a battle for over fourteen years. Stephen Kirker chatted to the AIC's Muhlabanzima Jafta.
The disciplinary hearing against one of the ten officials from the Durban office of Public Enterprises Department has been postponed for a second time today. This after a short recess following representation by lawyer of the Deputy Director for Utilisation and Contracts S'busiso Chonco explaining that he is ill. The department's legal representative did not want the hearing to be postponed. But after the recess the chairman said he believed him. Stephen chatted to our reporter Nonjabulo Mntungwa.
The Cape Town High Court led by Judge Siraj Desai has completed an in-loco inspection at the former home murder accused, Henri van Breda at the De Zalze Estate in Stellenbosch. The 22-year old is accused of killing his parents and older brother at their home in January 2015. He has pleaded NOT guilty to all the charges. Reporter Chis Mabuya reports chatted to Stephen Kirker
North West Police have made a plea to residents of volatile Coligny township, to assist them with information of identifying the body of a 12-year-old boy found dead near the farms last week. Widespread violence has brought the town to a standstill in protest against services delivery and the death of the boy. Shops have been looted and schooling has also been disrupted for the second day. They say the boy was allegedly killed by farmers. Stephen Kirker spoke to SABC reporters Bafedile Moerane, Rudzani Tshivhase, Zeblon Maine and Pearl Magubane on protests over service delivery and murders.
Basic EGauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says they appreciate all the help they are getting and both provinces are working together. He speaks to Midday Live anchor Stephen Kirker
According to the Amabhungane News website, In August last year, Eskom's acting CEO Matshela Koko handed Gupta-Zuma-owned Tegeta Exploration and Resources a R7-billion coal contract without a tender, ignoring warnings from National Treasury that such a contract could be irregular. The report goes on to say that under the agreement, Tegeta's Koornfontein Mines were to deliver 2.4 million tons of coal a year at R414/ton to the Komati power station, 40 km south of Middelburg. Stephen Kirker chats to Susan Comrie from the Amabhungani and Eskom's spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe
Former Hawks boss Berning Ntlemeza has reportedly assumed his duties at the Hawks office in Pretoria. Ntlemeza reported for work this morning though the State Attorney earlier wrote to Ntlemeza, emphasising the minister's decision for firing him and ordering him to stay away. Ntlemeza's lawyers argue that he has the legal right to remain in office pending an appeal of a high court judgment setting aside his appointment as unlawful. Stephen Kirker chats to Berning Ntlemeza's Lawyer Comfort Ngidi
Women from different organisations, including political parties, have gathered outside the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court in the Eastern Cape where the pastor accused of human trafficking will appear shortly. They are demanding that he be denied bail. The Hawks arrested the accused at the Port Elizabeth airport yesterday. He allegedly lured young girls and women to his house in Umhlanga in KwaZulu-Natal where they he allegedly sexually assaulted them. Here is an extract of one of his sermon courtesy by Solomon Ashong and an interview with our reporter Olwethu Sota.
The High Court in Port Elizabeth has been presented with the transcript of a telephonic conversation between state witnesses Luthando Siyoni, and Shane Bosch from the organised crime unit. This as the murder trial of Christopher Panayiotou and co-accused Sinethembe Nenembe and Zolani Sibeko gets under way. Bosch alleges that Siyoni used profanities in his conversations. He also told Siyoni about the St Albans court conditions which, defense advocate Terry Price said, could have been intended to pressurize him to implicate Panayiotou. The fifth witness, who is a retired police officer has taken the stand. Panayiotou's wife Jayed went missing exactly two years ago today. She was abducted and murdered. We spoke to our reporter Anda Nqoji
The South African Federation of Trade Unions Convenor Zwelinzima Vavi has warned that the new federation will smash all those who stand in the way of the interests of the working class. Vavi was speaking at SAFTU'S first conference at Birchwood hotel in Boksburg on Gauteng's East Rand. The labour federation is expected to hold elections for national office bearer positions. We spoke to Senior Political reporter Tshepo Ikaneng.
The SACP has been picketing outside the offices of the National Treasury in Pretoria, as part of its Financial Sector Campaign. The party says the picket is aimed at highlighting the need to defend the country against corporate capture. It is calling for the creation of an effective post bank, investigations into corrupt transactions which the public protector identified as well as the eradication of corruption in state owned enterprises. We spoke to Senior Politics reporter Amos Phago in Pretoria.
A family from Kroonstad in the Free State wants justice after their 29-year-old lesbian daughter was set alight and killed in what they believe is a hate crime because of her sexual orientation. Nonki Smous' body was burnt beyond recognition two weeks ago. The community yesterday marched to the local police station to demand a proper investigation. We spoke to Kim Lithgow the founder of Same Love and P-Flags South Africa, which support the LGBTI community and their families.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee looking into the situation in Vuwani is in Polokwane Limpopo to chart a way forward after violence flared up again in the area. Police minister Fikile Mbalula and Co-operative Governance minister Des Van Rooyen are expected to brief the media after the meeting this afternoon. Vuwani residents resumed their protest action this week, shutting down schools and businesses over a decision to incorporate them into the LIM345 Municipality. We spoke to our reporter Michael Makungo.
The Congress of the South African Trade Unions (COSATU) will be marching to the ABSA head offices in Johannesburg this afternoon. The march, called: "The Transformation of the Financial Sector". SACP General Secretary, Blade Nzimande addressed COSATU shopstewards. We also spoke to the trade union federation's Gauteng Provincial Secretary Dumisani Dakile.
Stephen Kiker speaks to SABC Researcher Lennox Ralebona about the source of the unrest in Vuwani
Acting Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane has condemned the loss of life and called on protesters to abide by the law in Vuwani. This comes as two people were burnt to death and one seriously injured after their vehicle hit barricades placed on the roads by protesting Vuwani residents in Limpopo. Protesting residents resumed their shut down yesterday over an unresolved municipal dispute. We spoke to our reporter Mike Maringa.
Vuwani residence are continuing with the shutdown of services in protest against being incorporated into the new LIM345 Municipality. This as the SABC crew were attacked and their car vandalised by protesters and chased out of Vyeboom village. Protest was suspended last weekend for the Easter holidays. It is reported that 76 schools around the area are still closed and protesters are not allowing anyone in and out of Vhuwani. Shibu Mamokgere shares more details
The Council for Higher Education (CHE) has told law faculties at 17 universities to get their house in order or face the withdrawal of accreditation. The CHE has been conducting investigations since 2013. The organisation says law faculties at the North West, Walter Sisulu, Free State universities as well as UNISA have major issues to address. The rest of the institutions' challenges can be addressed in the short term. Stephen Kirker speaks to the Director for National Standardisation and Review at the Council for Higher Education Olivia Mokgatle.
DA leader Mmusi Maimane has made an impassioned plea to South Africans not to relent in their demand for President Jacob Zuma's resignation. Maimane is leading the anti-corruption march to the Limpopo provincial treasury in Polokwane. Opposition parties EFF, UDM and Cope were expected to take part in the march but withdrew last minute. Stephen Kirker speaks to SABC reporter Katlego Nyoni who is at the march
An expert on media studies says regulating freedom of expression will be very difficult. This comes amidst a controversial cartoon by artist Zapiro, real name Jonathan Shapiro, which appeared in Daily Maverick yesterday. The drawing depicts a woman dressed in a South African flag, being held down by characters viewed as close associates of president Jacob Zuma, while he looks away and tells another character, resembling one of the Gupta brothers, that the lady draped in the flag is all his. There's been an outcry with some people saying the cartoon is insensitive to rape survivors. Here's what Zapiro has said in his defense.
The legal team of Hawks boss Major General Berning Ntlemeza, is currently making arguments aimed at persuading the high court in Pretoria to allow him access to a higher authority. Ntlemeza is convinced that another court will make a different finding from the one made last month, that declared Ntlemeza's appointment irrational and that it should be set aside. Ntlemeza is now fighting the battle alone after the new police minister abandoned the joint application. Meanwhile, the Helen Suzman Foundation is asking that the high court forces Ntlemeza to stay at home while the legal proceedings continue. For more we spoke to our reporter Maluti Obuseng.
The National Freedom Party says they will be joining other opposition parties in Parliament in voting against President Zuma during the vote of no confidence. Parliament recently gave the green light for a such a motion. However, opposition parties led by the UDM, have since taken to Constitutional Court in order to force the speaker of Parliament to allow a secret vote. We spoke to the National Freedom Party's KZN Provincial Chairperson Vikizitha Mlotshwa.
Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga says no amount of sabotage or disruption will stop the municipality from delivering services to its people. Speaking this morning at a media briefing in Centurion, Msimanga criticised the ANC's disruptions of the State of the Capital Address last week. Msimanga also said the Chief of the Tshwane Metro Police Department Steven Ngobeni was suspended due to failure to carry out his duties after he failed to remove disruptful ANC members from council chambers last week.
Questions are being raised about how the SAVE South Africa movement will address the racist elements that took part in last week's anti-Jacob Zuma marches. This after several people were seen carrying posters with messages offensive to black people. The question of racism was raised even before the march took place about the selectiveness of White people's participation on the March and the fact that some private companies gave all their employees a day off so that they could join the protest. Earlier on during our sister show AMLive, my colleague Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Managing Director at Diversi-T, Teresa Oakley-Smith about this matter
Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga says no amount of sabotage or disruption will stop the municipality from delivering services to its people. Speaking this morning at a media briefing in Centurion, Msimanga criticised the ANC's disruptions of the State of the Capital Address last week. Msimanga also said the Chief of the Tshwane Metro Police Department Steven Ngobeni was suspended due to failure to carry out his duties after he failed to remove disruptful ANC members from council chambers last week. For more on this we are joined on the line by Executive Mayor of the City of Tshwane Solly Msimanga
UDM's legal representatives say the party will be applying for direct access to the Constitutional Court in its attempt to Parliamentary members to hold a secret ballot during next week's vote of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma. The Speaker of the National Assembly, Baleka Mbete, has turned down requests by opposition parties for a secret ballot. She says the rules do not provide for this. The ANC has said all its MP's will vote against the motion. We spoke to scholar in Constitutional Law and Public Law lecturer at the University of Cape town Kgomotso Moshikaro.
Thousands of South Africans have embarked on an anti-Zuma march across the country. They are singing revolutionary songs and chanting slogans calling for President Jacob Zuma to step down. Police and private security personnel have been deployed to monitor the situation. Meanwhile, ANC supporters have gathered at Luthuli House in central Johannesburg and say they prepared to defend President Jacob Zuma. We first spoke to our reporter Liela Magnus who was at the Union Buildings in Pretoria....as well several others around the country.
Legal representatives for the South Africans government are at the International Criminal Court in the Hague Netherlands arguing why South Africa should not be charged with non-compliance regarding the arrest of Sudanese president Omar Al-Bashir. The South African government did not arrest Al-Bashir when he attended an African Union Summit here in 2015. This despite a local high court court ruling ordering that he be arrested to face charges for crimes against humanity at the ICC. The government defended its decision saying Al-Bashir was protected by laws relating to diplomatic immunity. It subsequently announced that it would pull out as a signatory to the ICC because laws were biased against African Leaders. But that process has been halted until Parliament is consulted. Here is part of the argument made by Professor Dire Tladi, the special advisor to the minister of International relations Department at the ICC and an interview with Otelia Maunganidze, Head of Speacial Projects at the Institute for Security Studies.
Communities in Xolobeni in the Eastern Cape have been fighting SANRAL's plan to build a tolled N2 road through the Wildcoast. SANRAL is meeting the communities today to try and reassure them that the road wont be an environmental hazard. The communities are concerned that the road and titanium mining will harm the flora and fauna habitats. Our reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi gave us more information on the story.
The ANC has condemned last night's violence against protest in Pretoria. Protestors under the Save SA banner claimed that they were attacked by members of the ANCYL. They civil society group was protesting against president Jacob Zuma's decision to reshuffle the cabinet. We spoke to the ANC's Khusela Sangoni. We also spoke to Associate professor in the Sociology Department at Wits University about the impact of the marches.
According to reports coming in now, another school has been burned in Vuwani. This as residents in that community are enforcing a shutdown of services demanding that the Municipal Demarcation Board excludes their area from the LIM 345 municipality in the Vhembe district. Police spokesperson in Limpopo, Lt. Col. Moatshe Ngoepe gave us clarity on the matter...
Angry residents are protesting outside the Kagiso Magistrates Court west of Johannesburg. The protest comes ahead of the court appearance of seven suspects arrested in connection with the murder and rape of two people in Tshepisong, on Johannesburg's West Rand on Saturday. The victims were stoned, burnt and the woman allegedly gang raped. The victims died later in hospital. Our reporter, Sashin Naidoo is monitoring developments.
ANC Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe has denied reports that officials were admonished by president Jacob Zuma and forced to apologise following recent developments which saw some officials speaking out against his lack of consultation before a cabinet reshuffle took place last week. Mantashe was speaking at the party's Johannesburg headquarters Luthuli House a short while ago after a two-day National Working Commitee meeting. He also told the media that the NWC highlighted a conference resolution that even though it's the president's prerogative to appoint ministers, he should do so after consulting the ANC. The party also expressed disappointment at its alliance partners' decision to call for the president's removal publicly. We spoke to Lukhona Mnguni a Socio-Pl-Economist from the university of KwaZulu Natal.
The council of the Bela-Bela Local Municipality is in chaos as it has been unable to sit due to infighting among ANC council members. The council meetings were disrupted twice last week and police had to be called in to calm the situation. Disgruntled ANC council members are said to have absconded from council meetings so that the council does not form a quorum. Our reporter Michael Makungo has an update.
There are growing fears in the Richmond Municipality in KwaZulu Natal after a second person was gunned down in less than a month. Deputy Mayor Thandazile Phoswa was gunned down in the early hours of this morning while Sibusiso Sithole , who was the Municipal Manager, was shot dead last month. It is now feared that the matter may be politically motivated. We spoke to our reporter Nonkululeko Hlophe.
Director at Media Monitoring Africa William Bird says weaknesses in the system of journalism does not mean there should be stringent media controls put in place. The comment comes after a message alleged that journalists at an unnamed institution were instructed to find dirt on the new Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba. Gigaba took over from Pravin Gordhan last week in a cabinet reshuffle which shocked and angered many within the ANC. A move seen as politically motivated. The ANC's Jackson Mthembu spoke out once again over the weekend about the setting up a media Appeals Tribunal. We spoke to William Bird from Media Monitoring Africa.
The Rand has plunged by around 5% after President Jacob Zuma fired Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan in a dramatic midnight Cabinet reshuffle. Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba has replaced Gordhan. The rand fell as low as R13.46 before recovering slightly. Gordhan's deputy, Mcebisi Jonas, has also been axed and replaced by ANC MP and businessman Sifiso Buthelezi, a former PRASA chairperson. Apart from Gordhan, Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom, Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson and Public Service and Administration Minister Ngoako Ramathlodi have also been axed. Zuma says in a brief statement that he's directed the 10 new ministers to work with their colleagues to bring about radical socio-economic transformation. The DA's Mabine Seabe confirms that the party will march to Luthuli House. Stephen Kirker speaks to the spokesperson for more.
The SACP has confirmed that the president informed them during the meeting with the ANC NEC that there will be a cabinet reshuffle of the Finance and Deputy finance ministers. But the party says it will not be drawn into the specifics of that discussion. It has also highlighted that it strongly disagrees on the names suggested as replacements but has refused to reveal who those people are. The organisation's Deputy General-Secretary Solly Mapaila
Midday Live presenter Stephen Kirker speaks to political analyst Dr. Dale McKinley who says the situation around the cabinet reshuffle and sacking of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is unpredictable.
Two more schools, Kwanang Primary School and Rindzani Secondary School have been burned down in Marite near Hazyview in Mpumalanga. For the past two months there has been no teaching and learning in many schools due to parents demanding the construction of tarred roads in their area. Four schools have been burnt since the violent protests began.
Standard Bank this morning requested an extended declaratory order to include the cabinet ministers from intervening in banking matters. The bank's lawyer Advocate Vincent Maleka said there was no reason to confine relief to the minister himself. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan also made an unexpected stop at the Gauteng North High Court, where lawyers are locked in debate after Gupta-owned Oakbay and Treasury could not make a deal.
The Moerane Commission looking into political killings in KwaZulu Natal has called on the public to provide any information they believe may assist in their investigation. The Commission, appointed by KZN premier Willies Mchunu, will be Chaired by Advocate Marumo Moerane. There have been scores of killings in the province which are politically related.
Police have used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse protesting students of the University of Venda in Thohoyandou. Students barricaded the entrance to the campus today demanding that NSFAS gives them monthly allowances for food. The University of Venda says it has received a commitment letter from NSFAS stating that students' allowances for food will be paid today. Stephen Kirker speaks to Witness Tiva for more.
The country reacts with shock at the R89 000 fee by Grace Bible Church to host the memorial service of legendary actor Joe Mafela.
The Parliament's Committee on Public Enterprise is in Soweto today in a bid to convince residents to switch to prepaid electricity. The committee met with Eskom this morning to find out what the pertitioners raised as their concerns about prepaid electricity metering. Sowetans have been refusing Eskom's prepaid meters even after the company promised to erase R4 Billion in electricity debt by the residents. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by Public Enterprise Committee Chairperson, Dipuo Letsatsi-Duba.
Criminal elements have hijacked the culture of initiation. That's according to at least one traditional leader who says criminals have broken all the rules and regulations that guide the practice. Dozens of initiates have lost their lives over the years. There've also been questions around the exclusion of women and mothers who play a critical role in an initiate's life. Thabile Mbhele explores this issue
MEC for Education in Mpumalanfa Mrs Reginah Mhaule is expected to visit the family of 14-year old Siphamandla Choma who died earlier today in hospital. Choma was left paralysed after the incident which happened late last year. The principal of Manyano Primary alledly beat him up, accusing him of stealing R150.The school principal was suspended after the news broke. Steven Kiker Mpumalanga Education spokesperson Jasper Zwane
Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini has completely failed in her duties. That's according to non-governmental organisation, Black Sash. The organisation is currently in the Constitutional Court arguing that the court must oversees the entire grant payment process. At the centre of the controversy is the deal between social security agency SASSA and Cash Paymaster Service whose contract will end on March the 31st. Our reporter Mbali Sibanyoni is in court.
Two Joburg housing officials along with two accomplices were arrested on charges of fraud and corruption linked to a syndicate involving land and RDP houses. A syndicate reportedly working in collusion with the Department of Housing, municipal officials and a councillor started allocating stands to people at a fee to unsuspecting individuals. The two were released on R5000 bail each. We discussed this matter with City of Johannesburg Media Specialist Luyanda Mfeka.
Police are investigating circumstances surrounding the theft of several guns at Peddie police station in the Eastern Cape. The incident came to light yesterday morning. Auditors were on the scene to ascertain the number of guns stolen earlier today. Police spokesperson Brigadier Marinda Mills gave us clarity around the issue.
Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Zwandile Masina has proposed to the family of five year old Richard Thole that a memorial service be held for him. The boy fell into a sinkhole in February while playing with his friends. His body is yet to be found. Rescue operations were abandoned when the search became too risky for rescue officials. The municipality then enlisted the help of the SA National Defence Force. Ekurhuleni Mayor Zwandile Masina received the report yesterday. We spoke to the spokesperson of the Ekurhuleni Municipality, Gugu Ndima.
Former ANC Youth League deputy chairperson Andile Lungisa has been elected to leader the ANC in Nelson Mandela Bay. The region has been without a regional body for two years after President Jacob Zuma disbanded it when deep factions led to disunity.
Nigerian National Eke Ugochukwu has been sentenced to twenty years in prison by the High Court in Johannesburg. This after being found guilty of the sexual exploitation of a 15-year old girl, living off the earnings of sexual exploitation, being an accomplice to rape and contravening the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act. He is the first person to be convicted under this law in Gauteng. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Sashin Naidoo.
Foreign nationals fear for their lives as attacks continue in the small town of Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. Recently two Egyptian nationals were brutrally killed and their wives critically injured. Police say the foreign nationals were shot at by unknown people and died on the scene. The deceased have been living and doing business in Lusikisiki for years. The Association of foreign nationals believes the attack was based on hatred
Nine people were rushed to hospital after they were allegedly shot with live ammunition in Reiger park East of Johannesburg this morning. Reiger Park residents went on the rampage burning tyres and blockading roads with rocks. They are protesting over what they say is poor service delivery in the area since the early hours of this morning.
Several items including laptops and cellphones were reportedly stolen last night after two armed suspects attacked students at the University of Johannesburg . The students were in the laboratory at the Kingsway Campus preparing for an assessment. A shoot out ensued between the university security and armed men.
This year the focus is on the role that technological advances can have on women's prospects while lifting the number of women stuck in the low-paid informal economy. The Gauteng Provincial Government hosts a 3 day Women's Economic Summit focusing on opening up opportunities for women and bringing them into the mainstream economy.
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) says it has instituted legal action against SAA chairperson Dudu Myeni with the intention of having her declared a delinquent director.
The bodies of people who died in a taxi crash outside Polokwane on Saturday finally identified.
Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini is expected to appear before Parliament's Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) to answer urgent questions relating to the current SA Social Security Agency matter.
Thabazimbi Hospital could soon be declared a disaster area as the Limpopo Health Department tries to find ways to deal with the damage caused by flooding.
The ANC Women's League has hit back at Cosatu, labelling the labour federation's call for Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini to be fired or resign as populist grandstanding. The saga around social security agency SASSA is at the centre of the spat between two. Dlamini's department is still negotiating to ensure that 17-million South Africans receive their social grants next month. The League says it's irresponsible for Cosatu, as an ANC's alliance partner, to state that the SASSA matter smells of corruption, but not lay any corruption charge with the law enforcement agencies. .
Recent World Health Organisation statistics estimates that there are 360 million people in the world with disabling hearing loss. This is 5.3% of the world's population. In South Africa more than 3 million people are said to be suffering from permanent disabling hearing loss. Today we celebrate World Hearing Day under the theme Action for hearing loss: make a sound investment aimed educating the world on how to prevent the loss of hearing. Stephen Kirker speaks to Nomfundo Moroe who is a a Lecturer and Audiologist at Wits University.
Description: A Defence witness in the trial of suspended crime intelligence boss Richard Mdluli has told the High Court in Johannesburg that their suspected Mdluli's wife Tshidi Buthelezi of having an affair with a taxi driver.
Description: Fees Must Fall Activist Bonginkosi Khanyile has taken his case for bail application to the constitutional court. Khanyile has been denied bail since his detention for violation of previous bail conditions when he was arrested during protests last year. Khanyile approached the Constitutional Court on grounds that the lower courts misinterpreted the Criminal Procedure Act which was used to charge him
Fees Must Fall Activist Bonginkosi Khanyile is back at the Durban Magistrate Court today for bail application. Khanyile was arrested last year during the FeesMustFall protests at the University of Kwazulu-Natal. He recently went on a hunger strike in portest of his continued detention. For more on this we are joined on the line by our reporter Fanele Mhlongo.
Residents of Jerusalem informal settlement in Boksburg on the East Rand are continuing with their protest after a 5-year-old boy fell into a mine shaft over the weekend. The residents are accusing the Ekurhuleni metro municipality of failing to fence-off the area. Stephen Kirker speaks to SABC reporter Jamaine Krige and Ekurhuleni Emergancy Services Spokesperson Vincent Khoza in Boksburg East of Johannesburg
Parliament has rejected as misleading claims by the DA that the institution spent over R 11 million rand on security during the state-of-the-nation address on February 9. In a statement, parliament said the expenditure for the event did not exceed four million rand. Earlier, DA chief whip John Steenhuisen claimed the cost of this year's SONA stood just below eleven million rand. Stephen Kirker speaks to parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo
The Ad Hoc Committee probing the affairs of the SABC is in the last stages of its work. The committee will resume today* to look into outstanding matters and to start working on the final recommendations. Yesterday, it concluded deliberations on the responses of the SABC and Communications Minister Faith Muthambi who responded to the committee's Interim report. Mercedes Besent reports.
Free State, one of the provinces hardest hit by servere drought, has had good rains over the past three days, providing much relief for farmers. However, The Kroonstad and Viljoenskroon residents in northern Free State and Bethlehem in the eastern Free State have been urged to be vigilant as roads continue to flood for both pedestrians and motorists. Stephen Kirker speaks to the Free State Disaster Management head, Markes Butler
The court has ruled that government's decision to serve a notice of withdrawal from the International criminal court without a parliamentary process is invalid and unconstitutional. The DA argued that Justice Minister, Michael Masutha, unlawfully bypassed Parliament when he made the decision and therefore did not act in line with the Constitution. The Department of Justice says it still needs to reflect on the decision of the High Court in Pretoria. Stephen Kirker speaks to Political Reporter Amos Phago
Justice Crime Prevention and Security Cluster says it has noted with concern inflammatory remarks currently circulating on social media by South Africans and foreign nationals against each other. Spokesperson for the cluster Siphiwe Dlamini says they would like to assure all people in the country both citizens and foreign nationals, that the security agencies are aware of the threats that are being circulated on social media and have been put in place to mitigate against any potential threat.
The legal matter over the technical specifications of government-subsidised set-top boxes is due to be heard by the Constitutional Court today. The matter was brought to the attention of the highest court in the land by communications minister Faith Muthambi, following the Supreme Court of Appeal's ruling in favour of encrypted decoders. Last May, the SCA declared the Department of Communications' digital migration policy "unlawful and invalid" and it was accordingly set aside. A ConCourt decision over the technical specifications for digital migration will mark a decisive step in the legal showdown between Muthambi and free-to-air television broadcaster, Etv. Stephen Kirker speaks to Worldwide Worx Managing Director, Arthur Goldstuck
School Governing Body in the Vhembe District is considering shutting down schools due to non delivery of stationery in the area by the department of basic education. Several schools are said to be without books since the department promised to have them delivered by last week. Stephen Kirker speaks to SABC reporter in Limpopo Rudzani Tshivhase
A pharmacist assistant and two security guards are appearing at the Polokwane magistrate court for theft of medication worth R1.2 million. The medication was stolen at the Limpopo Pharmaceutical depot in Seshego. The provincial health department says they found medication for the mentally ill, children and TB
Alliance partners in the North West have also raised concerns regarding the Brian Molefe's elevation to parliament. This after reports that ANC leaders of Ward 29 in Hartebeespoort where Molefe, owns a house denied that he was on their books. It is also alleged that the North West MP that Molefe will be replacing in Parliament was instructed to vacate his seat to make way for the former Eskom CEO. However, ANC NW Secretary, Dakota Legoete, has refuted allegations that Molefe's elevation to parliament was done underhandedly.
INTRO: The South Africa Weather Service has forecast localised flooding around the Kruger National Park as well as the Mpumalanga Lowveld and some areas in Limpopo tomorrow as Tropical Cyclone Dineo reaches South Africa. The storm currently classified as severe and is over the Mozambican Channel, is likely to intensify to Intense Tropical Cyclone Status by as early as this afternoon. Dineo is expected to make landfall near Inhambane in southern Mozambique this evening. It's likely to pack winds of up to 166 kilometres per hour. For more on this we spoke to the Mpumalanga Disaster Management
Johannesburg City Power Board Chairperson, Reverend Frank Chikane, has dismissed as baseless and slanderous allegations that the city's power utility offered his wife a tender irregularly. Chikane says the allegations were made in a letter sent to the City and City Power by two officials claiming to be from the municipal workers union - SAMWU. SAMWU has however distanced itself from such allegations. Tshepo Phagane reports
The South African Human Rights Commission says the increasing prominence of social media in South Africa is further complicating the country's efforts to address racism and other forms of discrimination. The Commission is hosting a National Investigative Hearing on how to deal with the issue of racism on social media. The commission is trying to arrive at an understanding as to what constitutes racism in social media context and who should be accountable to what extent. The Commission says it does not identify social media as a specific category in classifying human rights complaints it receives however, social media is increasingly being cited as a location in which race-based equality complaints arise. Earlier on we spoke to SAHRC Spokesperson Gail Smith
Civil group Afriforum has confirmed that Sarah Jane Trent who is the assistant of private investigator Paul O'Sullivan has been released. Trent was arrested over the weekend on charges of impersonating an officer of the Independent Police Directorate (IPID). This is related to an investigation into Acting Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane. It is alleged that police drove around for hours before taking Trent to Cullinan police station. We spoke to Afriforum spokesperson Willie Spies.
INTRO: The Nquthu Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has been dissolved. This was announced by Cooperative Governance MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube during a media today. This comes after the sixth attempt to elect the leadership in the hung municipality failed last week.
Officials from the Gauteng Security cluster, joined by Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba are expected in Rosettenville, east of Johannesburg this afternoon, following violent protests which broke out over the weekend. Residents went on the rampage burning houses belonging to suspected drug dealers. One person was injured and some families were left homeless.
Activists, women and health professionals are among those who held a picket outside Roche in Johannesburg today. The pharmaceutical comapany has been accused of charging exhorbitant amounts of money for Trastuzumab, a drug used for the treatment of breast cancer. The picket was in memory of Tobeka Daki - a cancer activist who died without being able to access the drug. Joining us for more information on the picket is Catherine Tomblison, researcher from the Fix the Patent Laws coalition and Cancer Alliance.
According to the Auditor-General's report, Tshwane Municipality is sitting on a R2 billion deficit on its current account. This was revealed by Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga during a media briefing this morning. Msimanga said the city is in dire financial strates due to poor financial management but they have come up with a measure to turn things around
The Mining Indaba continues today with a focus on Africa and how to increase investment into the mining sector on the continent.
MEC for Co-operative Governance Makoma Makhurupetja says government will receive a memorandum of demands from the protesting residents in Vumani, Limpopo today. Protesters are demanding that the newly established LIM345 municipality stops delivering services in their area.
Come has returned in Rosettenville following protests over the weekend. The angry residents in say drug dealing and prostitution in the community is out of control. Residents raided houses and burnt furniture of the alleged drug dealers and say the municipality and the police have ignored their pleas to have the dealers arrested
The MKVA has expressed as regrettable some of the comments attributed to its leadership in the media at Luthuli House in Johannesburg. MKVA Chairperson Kabby Maphatsoe apologised for going overboard by calling the leadership of the ANC empty tins. Maphatsoe was briefing the media following their meeting with MK National Council.
Several people have been arrested in Itsoseng township near Lichtenburg in the North West. Angry protesters went on the rampage this morning looting foreign-owned shops. Commuters in the township were stranded as the unrest prevented public transport from operating in the area. Residents have been complaining about a shortage of water in their area
The Department of Social Development in the Eastern Cape, plans to move 240 patients from fully state-funded frail-care centres in Port Elizabeth. This move comes dead on the heels of a report released by the Health Ombudsman, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba which revealed that the deaths of 94 mentally ill patients is as a result of negligence.
The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) is launching US$ 4.22 million worth waste-to-energy project in Pretoria today. The objective of the project is to promote and accelerate the adoption of biogas as a complementary energy source to contribute to the South African energy supply mix. The project was conceived soon after South Africa hosted the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Seventeenth Conference of Parties (COP 17), in 2011.
The Pretoria North magistrate's court has ruled as inadmissible evidence contained in the letter of suspension of former NPA senior prosecutor and now DA MP, Glynnis Breytenbach. The defence has brought an urgent application seeking to test the validity of the suspension letter signed by Breytenbach's former boss Nomgcobo Jiba in April 2012
The South African Federation for Mental Health has welcomed the Health Ombudsman's report into the deaths of 94 psychiatric patients. Professor Malegapuru Makgoba released the report yesterday*. The federation's Bharti Patel has described the deaths as shocking
The economic Freedom Fighters has laid a murder charge against the premier of Gauteng David Makhura, former Health MEC in the province Qedani Mahlangu and officials as well as the NGO's implicated in the deaths of the 94 psychiatric patients who were moved from the Life Esidimeni. Stephen Kirker speaks to EFF caucus leader in Gauteng.
Director at BDK Attorneys and Litigation specialist Ulrich Roux says the EFF murder charge against the Premier of Gauteng David Makhura and former Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu will be difficult to prove. Roux says for a murder case to stick there needs to be clear intention to commit the crime and the EFF will have to prove that beyond reasonable doubt.
Mark Scott-Crossley's bail application today. He's facing an attempted murder charge after he allegedly drove over Silence Mabunda in December.
Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba has met with the hospitality industry players over alleged flouting of labour practices and the Immigration Act. Government yesterday warned businesses to employ a majority of South Africans. Gigaba said government will not disrupt migration to South Africa, he said businesses risk triggering tensions when they overlook competent South Africans for jobs.
The trial of suspended crime intelligence boss, Richard Mdluli, and his co-accused underway in the High Court in Johannesburg. Mdluli's co-accused Mthunzomhle Mthunzi yesterday denied any involvement in the case, testified that he believes the case against him has been concocted for personal reasons.
The Executive mayor of Cape Town and the Democratic Alliance's Western Cape Chairperson, Patricia De Lille this morning issued a statement announcing that she is stepping down as the party's provincial leader. De Lille says the City of Cape Town has taken on various initiatives which are set to improve service delivery and this will require her undivided attention.
Another cement company Sephaku has reportedly imported hundreds of Chinese labourers to work at its plant in Lichtenburg . PPC cement company in Slurry near Mahikeng also recently imported over two hundred workforce from China on a project worth R1,7 billion rands. The French company says this helps to save 25% of profit had it used SA companies. Meanwhile, Home Affairs minister, Malusi Gigaba warned businesses to employ a majority of South Africans. H
A high level task team has been appointed to investigate corruption allegations in municipalities in the Eastern Cape-OR Tambo District, Engcobo, Butterworth, Mnquma and Mthatha have been identified as municipalities with alleged corrupt activities. The Hawks head Berning Ntlemeza says corrupt officials rob people of basic services and as the unit they are tasked with rooting out corruption in all institutions.
The NEHAWU strike at the University of South Africa has entered its second day and the registration deadline has been postponed to the end of January as a result. Some staff at the University downed tools bringing student registration for 2017 to a halt yesterday.
It used to be that one could search for news online or log onto a social media application such as Twitter or Facebook, trusting that the news or headlines that appeared were factual, accurate and credible, even if they carried some bias. However, that is increasingly no longer the case with the advent of fake news, which presents fiction as fact.
Various stakeholders in the basic education sector have agreed to put the interests of the learners first, even in times of disagreements. This came out of the three day Basic Education Lekgotla attended by officials from all provincial education departments, unions, school governing bodies and other interested parties in Pretoria. They've been reflecting on the work done to improve the education system in the past few years and to discuss possible solutions to the challenges plaguing the system.
Higher Education and Training Minister Blade Nzimande has asked students to engage his department constructively in order to resolve legitimate concerns. Nzimande was brefing the media in Preoria on the outcome of a meeting with higher education stakeholders. He also says he is greatful to not have received any reports about violence and disruptions. Nzimande also urged students to also help them by working hard in their studies so that others after them can get the opportunity for funding as well.
The ANC youth league says it believes there was criminality and fraud in the transaction that involved BANKORP- this as they plan to march to the headquarters of ABSA demanding the bank pay back the money. The league was reacting to a leaked Public Protector's preliminary CIEX report which recommends that ABSA pay back 2.25-billion rands in loans Bankcorp got from the Reserve bank in the late 80s early 90s.
Public enterprise Minister Lynne Brown says she is happy with Eskom's turnaround strategy. Speaking to the media at Eskom's state of the system's briefing this week the minister says Eskom has managed to produce surplus and is currently collecting debt owned by municipalities - which is helping the power utility to remain financially sustainable. Brown says Eskom's capacity expansion program has delivered more than one thousand seven hundred megawatts to the country's electricity grid since 2015. Government says the country has adequate reserves to meet electricity demand until the year 2021.
Tshwane Executive Mayor Solly Msimanga has announced Moeketsi Emmanuel Mosola as the candidate for the position of city manager. Msimanga says Mosola whose name will be presented at the council meeting, was selected out of a group of 100 applicants. He also condemned the recent stuff protests over permanent employment and work safety. The city is also faced with one of its biggest challenges in the almost two billion rand smart meter case against supplier PEU.
The chairperson of Parliament's Communications committee, Humphrey Maxegwana, has set out the criteria for candidates to be appointed to the SABC interim board. The communications committee met this morning to discuss the way forward. This as a parallel process is underway in an ad hoc committee where the SABC board's fitness to hold office is investigated. Board members resigned one after the other before and during the sitting of the ad hoc committee. The last remaining non executive board member - and chairperson - Mbulaheni Maghuve, resigned late last year. Maxegwana says it is important that those appointed to the interim board, must be highly competent.
Political killings continue at Inchanga west of Durban. On Sunday another SACP member was fataly shot while walking with friends. The feud which started earlier this year between ANC and SACP members have seen a number of people killed in both sides. Meanwhile, a date is yet to be set for the first sitting of the commission of inquiry established to probe the killings.
The SADC Oversight Committee on Lesotho has started its second mission in the mountain kingdom today. The committee is on a mission to calm things down amidst fear of instability as opposition parties plan to vote against next month's budget to frustrate a government that they say no longer has majority in parliament. The committee is also monitoring constitutional and security reforms as well as the implementation of the recommendations of the Phumaphi Commission
It has been reported that AB Inbev has sent out a voluntary severance offer to more than 1,000 of its management employees in South Africa- the reports further stated that this is the first time in recent history that South African Breweries has undertaken a retrenchment exercise at this scale. Meanwhile, in the mining sector job cuts are also on the cards, this as Anglo Gold Ashanti informs the unions at the company about its plans to dismiss over 800 employees.
Acting National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane says it unfair that he's being subjected to a trial by media. He has accused the police watchdog, IPID, of humiliating him by tipping off the media about yesterday's raid. Phahlene added that he was only made formerly aware of the investition against him yesterday as the raid was being carried out.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says tthey have reduced the learner placement backlog from 58 000 to 7000. Lesufi also says they are not prepared to revert to manual system as 80% of online applicants were placed by end of Aug 2016. Lesufi was briefing media on learner placement in Gauteng.
It has been reported that there are not enough posts available for newly qualified pharmacists- according to Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa, as many 129 newly qualified pharmacists were supposed to start work this year and are without jobs. Earlier, Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and MECs briefed the media to clarify the employment status of these medical professionals
The newly elected leadership of the trouble torn Mnquma Municipality in the Eastern Cape has resigned . This after the feuding ANC factions in the embattled Eastern Cape, municipality reached a settlement at the Mthatha High Court. Last week a group of councillors held a special council meeting and passed a vote of no confidence in mayor Thobeka Bhikitsha and speaker Zibuthe Mnqwazi. They then elected Thobakazi Ntanga and Zenzile Gade as mayor and speaker respectively.
Thousands of Gambians have been forced to flee the country as Senegalese and Nigerian troops are deployed in a last ditch attempt to get Yahya Jammeh to step down. The midnight deadline requiring Yahya Jammeh to relinquish power has expired but he remains determined to cling to power. Meanwhile, President-elect, Adama Barrow, is expected to be inaugurated as Gambia's new president despite his predecessor's claims that his election was fraudulent.
Basic Education has announced it will release the matric results of 171 learners implicated in cheating from New Era College. The department will however not release the results of the two other schools who's learners are implicated in the maths paper leak last year. The department says results of Giyani High and Quality Independent school will only be released after investigations have been finalised.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has just kicked off in Davos, Switzerland- Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to brief the media on what they hope to achieve at WEF. Another interesting person who is in attendance is the who is expected to talk about globalisation in the face of mounting public hostility
Three more municipalities have reached a payment agreement with Eskom- this after the power utility promised to switch off the electricity of all the municipalities in the country that owe them billions in electricity tariff. In the North West, five municipalities owe Eskom millions with Ditsobotla local municipality leading with a whopping debt of 185 million rands.
Hundreds of residents are demonstrating outside the Vuwani magistrate's court in Limpopo where 54 residents are appearing on charges of public violence, arson and malicious damage to property. They are demanding that the court drops the charges against the suspects. The suspects including a ward councillor and a school teacher were arrested during the demarcation protest last year. Meanwhile schooling and businesses have been disrupted in the area.
Local Government stakeholders and politicians in the Eastern Cape are divided on what should be done to bring political and administrative stability in the trouble torn Mnquma Municipality. Service delivery is at a standstill in the municipality as the factional groups of councillors are at each other's throats.
Sixty-Two learner placement centers established by Gauteng Education Department were expected to start operating today. The centres are aimed at assisting parents who's children have not been placed in schools as yet. The department says over 30 000 learners were still in line for placement since the start of the academic year
Higher education and Training Minister Dr Blade Nzimande announced this morning that about R15.5 Billion has been allocated to NSFAS for tertiary education. Nzimande was briefing media on post school education and training readiness in Pretoria. Nzimande added that NSFAS will also be paying registration fees for students upfront for the academic year of 2017.
It has been reported that most schools in the Vhembe, Mopani, Sekhukhune and Waterberg districts have not received the stationery in the new academic year. Meanwhile, Human rights group, Section 27 says it wants to meet with the Limpopo Education department following reports of the non-delivery of stationery at various schools across the province. The department has since attributed the problem to a new procurement system which led to delays. One of the service providers called in on Amlive saying the procurement of book suppliers is corrupt.
SANCO has called on the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Ministry to put municipalities not paying their debt to Eskom under administration. Municipalties in the Free State, North West, Mpumalanga and Northern Cape owe Eskom about R10.10 Billion for Electricity. Eskom announced it will start carrying out disconnections on the 16th of this month.
PAC stalwart Kenny Motsamai is expected to be officially released today after serving 27 years in prison. Motsamai was arrested in 1989 with three APLA accomplices for armed robbery and murder of traffic officer who witnessed the robbery. The Economic Freedom Fighters has reportedly offered the PAC veteran a job
The first day of schooling for the 2017 academic year started with some hiccups in some parts of Limpopo. Several schools are still waiting for stationery to be delivered, while in the Tshitale area schooling was disrupted due to a violent protest by residents who are demanding a tarred road. Premier Stan Mathabatha and some MECs also visited some schools to motivate learners. Witness Tiva
The City of Cape Town says its busy with an investigation into the cause of recent multiple fires near Somerset West and Grabouw in the Overberg, Western Cape. Firefighters have also been kept busy overnight trying to prevent a fire on the Hottentots Holland Mountain from reaching Stellenbosch as strong winds fan it.
Over the past few days, universities have released statements saying they have received more applications than spaces available. What this subsequently means is that the class of 2016 might be left with dashed dreams. However, Dr Felicity Coughlan, Director of The Independent Institute of Education, says independent institutions can serve as an alternative- as they are also offering similar degrees found at traditional universities.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it will reopen the period for applications for the 2017 academic year, from the 9th of January to the 14th of February. The first period of applications was from the first of August to the end of November this year. NSFAS spokesperson, Kagisho Mamabolo...
The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse(OUTA) has laid criminal charges against Hlaudi Motsoeneng at the Parktown Police Station in Johannesburg. The move comes at the back of a parliamentary inquiry into the SABC Board's fitness to hold office. Outa Chairperson Wayne Duvenage......
SABC's former Non Executive board member Rachel Kalidass has confirmed that Communications Minister Faith Muthambi suggested that Hlaudi Motsoeneng should be appointed permanently as Chief Operating Officer. This corresponds with what former board member Ronnie Lubisi's testified last week. Kalidass was testifying in the Parliamentary Inquiry into the SABC Affairs and the Board's fitness to hold office. Evidence leader Ntuthuzelo Vanara wanted to know whether it was true that the minister suggested Motsoeneng's appointment.
Members of the Parliament's ad hoc committee looking into the fitness of the SABC board are unanimous in their condemnation of the continued threats against the some of the SABC 8 Journalists who testified on Monday. Committee members have condemned the latest developments and want the law enforcement to act swiftly. SAfm Executive Producer Krivani Pillay......
There are over a thousand skincare products on supermarkets shelves- each an every one of them claiming to prevent or even cure a certain skin problem. Another player that's trying to get into this over saturated market is Omegalabs. In 2012, the company tried to register their products with the Medicines Control Council (MCC)- however they were met with a few challenges and the company took the MCC to court over its decision to classify some of its products as medicines instead of medical devices. Last week, the high court in Gauteng dismissed Omegalabs's application with costs. Medicines Control Council Registrar of Medicines, Dr Joey Gouws...
South African power utility Eskom will this week invite bids to build nuclear reactors in the government's push to increase nuclear capacity. South Africa has earmarked nuclear expansion as the centrepiece of a plan to increase power generation to ease the country's reliance on an ageing fleet of coal-fired plants and has asked Eskom to procure an additional 9,600 megawatts (MW) of capacity. Meanwhile environmentalists opposed to the plan will have to wait until next year for the court to hear their case against the plan. Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe......
The politics – Nkandla ruling, state capture report, the local govt elections The credit ratings saga The growth story – oil prices, the SA own goals Interest rates Inflation Expectations for 2017
The DA says it is satisfied with the Western Cape High Court ruling that has set aside the appointment of Hlaudi Motsoeneng as The SABC's Group Executive of Corporate Affairs. The ruling comes as the Adhoc Committee continues with a parliamentary inquiry into the SABC. The court has found that Motsoeneng may not hold any position at the SABC until he is exonerated by a new disciplinary process. DA leader Mmusi Maimane says Motsoeneng is not fit for any senior position at the public broadcaster ...
Steering Committee of the New Federation say they are putting on final touches- this ahead of the launch of the new trade union. In a statement the new federation highlighted that they intend to involve workers in every aspect- this ranges from new draft Constitution and the policies on recruitment. For more on this we are joined on the line by Convener for the Steering Committee of the New Federation.
ommunications regulator Icasa has laid criminal charges against the SABC for failing to adhere to a ruling regarding the withdrawal of its policy not to broadcast footage of violent protests.
NUMSA says it is still to decide as a collective whether Workers Party will contest the 2019 General Elections. General Secretary Irvin Jim says the union has been working overtly and covertly on establishing a socialist political party. Numsa has also recjected the endorsement of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa as next president and likened him to the DA.
The High Court in Polokwane has dismissed with costs an application by the Tubatse Municipality to have an execution of municipal property put aside. The municipality owes a contractor, Lufuno Mphaphuli of Mphaphuli Consulting, more than 40 million rand for electrifying villages in the Burgersfort area. Two weeks ago we spoke to the service provider who was he was keen on resovling the issue ammicably but the municipality was not interested.
Today marks the World AIDS Day commemoration- The is commemorated each year on the 1st of December and is an opportunity for every community to unite in the fight against HIV, show support for people living with HIV and remember those who have passed away. Keeping in line with that- Earlier I spoke to two teenagers - Nkosikhona Khumalao and Basetsana Kaunda, who are part of Katlehong Creative Writing Project, a creative writing class for HIV affected young people living in township, East of Johannesburg. The Duo has written stories about their lives and living with HIV...
Tribeca Film festival best documentary winner "Democrats" will be screened at the Labia Theatre in cape Town and the Bioscope in Johannesburg from tomorrow. The film, shot by Danish film-maker, Camilla Nielsson tells the story of the creation of Zimbabwe's new constitution and reveals the violence, fear and intimidation that went in to it. After the fractious elections of 2008 that saw the MDCs Morgan Tsvangarai win more votes than Robert Mugabe the country descended into virtual anarchy with the ZANU-PF leader refusing to concede. Peace was restored through a power sharing agreement and one of the conditions was that the country get a new constitution. This brought the current MDC secretary general, Douglas Mwonzora, then an MP, and ZAUNU-PF MP Paul Mangwana together in an unlikely alliance. Their task, to consult ordinary Zimbabweans. I chatted to Douglas Mwonzora yesterday...
The Department of Energy says it has conducted extensive research into how it will implement the New Nuclear Build Programme. In total more than 210 million rand was spent on various investigations including comparing nuclear to shale gas, cost of nuclear and pre-procurement Readiness Assessment among others. The costs include a 171 million rand spend on a Programme Management System. Meanwhile the Southern African Faith Communities' Environment Institute (SAFCEI) says if the South African government is prepared to spend billions on something they have not yet fully discussed with the country, then it shudders to think what the final nuclear bill be. SAFCEI Ambassador and former International Executive Director of Greenpeace, Kumi Naidoo........
Parents whose children will be starting Grade one and Grade 8 next year are urged to submit their online application before midnight. This as the registration process for 2017 school placement in closes at midnight.The Gauteng department of education says it has already received more than 300-thousand applications and have already placed almost 200-thousand pupils at schools. Gauteng Education spokesperson Oupa Bodibe...
The community of Bophelong in the Vaal triangle is living in fear. This after a spate of killings shook the community, in recent weeks. It's understood that three people, all believed to be gang members, were stabbed and hacked to death. The war in the area is believed to be between two rival gangs - "The Diamonds" from Muvhango, just outside Vanderbijlpark and "Mopheme" from Boipatong. Sashin Naidoo and Gauteng Police spokesperson, Captain Kay Makhubele
Hundreds of schools remain without access to water, electricity and sanitation services as the Department of Basic Education battles the provision backlog. The department is currently briefing the media on the matter, since today is the deadline for provision of proper infrastructure to all schools in the country. Equal Education Head of Policy and Training, Leanne Jansen-Thomas.....
Parliament's Adhoc Committee on the SABC Board Inquiry is now meeting behind closed doors with Parliamentary legal advisers. The decision was taken following a suggestion by IFP Chief Whip Narend Singh. This came after EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi insisted on discussing the legal strategy. Our parliamentary correspondent Mecerdes Besent reports & Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Johannesburg- Advocate Radley...
North-West Premier Supra Mahumapelo and his executive committee are reportedly planning to buy an aircraft for the North-West provincial government. The province has reportedly been spending around R80 million to subsidise the Mahikeng airport route to Johannesburg. Opposition parties have criticised the move saying there are more pressing issues like water shortage and unemployment. North-West spokesperson Brian Setswambung........
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has reserved judgement in a case involving a member of the Right 2Know campaign and police. In 2012, Alfred Moyo was involved in planning a march against alleged police brutality at the Primrose police station in Germiston, but Police tried to stop the march from going ahead and Moyo was subsequently arrested and charged with the Intimidation Act of 1982. R2K's Alfred Moyo...
Gauteng Premier David Makhura revealed forensic investigators found there were breaches of regulations in respect of procurement processes and financial management in the sports department. The investigation was instituted after the premier received anonymous letters in December 2014 of alleged rampant corruption in the department. The minister further more said the department irregularly awarded a tender for protection and security services without permission from treasury department. He says the Gauteng government has since taken disciplinary action against those involved.
Chief Daludumo Mtirara a member of the Royal Council who was a spokesperson for another faction of ABaThembu Royal clan opposed to the crowning of Dalindyebo has been found dead at his house in Pretoria. This as AbaTembu nation prepares to install King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's son prince Azenathi Dalindyebo as King regent of the nation at Bumbane Great place in the Eastern Cape. The Family spokesperson, Mfundo Bhovulengwe Mtirara says the cause of his death is unknown at this stage
Detective Aldre Koen testified this morning in a trial within a trial in the murder case of Chris Panayiotou. The trials dealt with the admissability of police sting evidence that may directly implicate Chris Panayiotou in the kidnapping and murder of his wife Jayde Panayiotou. Koen was also testifying about the process followed after Luthando Siyoni was arrested
The ANC Joburg region says the City of Johannesburg's Executive Mayor, Herman Mashaba, has recently cancelled critical projects which he deems as vanity projects of the past administration. The ANC in the region further added, that Mashaba keeps on alleging that the ANC administration did nothing to deal with corruption.
The Forum of Journalists for Transformation with support from the Communication Workers Unions (CWU) are marching to the offices of Caxton-owned Citizen newspaper. The demonstration is against the exploitation of journalists, discrimination as well as censorship in the media.
The Musician Association of South Africa says since the introduction of the 90% local music on SABC radio and television stations, the public broadcaster is being destabilised. South African Artists were briefing the media on SABC capture at the SAMRO offices in Braamfotein, Johannesburg.
Various stakeholders have raised concerns over the proposed national minimum wage of three-thousand 500 rand a month. With the business chamber, Nafcoc saying the minimum wage alone is not enough to combat poverty and inequality. Meanwhile, the ANC has welcomed the proposal, but called for further engagement between stakeholders.
Property worth more than a million rand belonging to Limpopo Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs are to be attached by the Sheriff of the court. This is to cover the non-payment salaries of four headmen.
The ANC says there is a need to make the recommendations and findings by Auditor General binding. The ruling party was reaction to the AG's audits reports for the 2015/16 financial year for provincial and national departments. Talking to my colleague Sakina Kamwendo this morning, Auditor General- Kimi Makwetu said it is disheartening to see departments disregard his recommendations....
Gauteng Department of Health this morning confirmed the presence of E-coli bacteria in the Juksei River in Alexandra. The department has since dispatched an Outbreak Response Team to deal with the matter. The team is expected to take measures that will minimise the impact of a possible outbreak. Dr Karen Keddy, Chief Pathologist and Head of Centre for Enteric Diseases at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases...
According to Amnesty International, victims of war crimes, crimes against humanity and other serious violations deserve to have their day in court. Amnesty International said this as while urging states to work to strengthen, rather than withdraw from, the International Criminal Court. The Assembly of State Parties of the International Criminal Court are meeting at the Hague in Netherlands to discuss among others how the treaty, to prevent impunity and protect victims of genocide and crimes against humanity, should be implemented.correspondent who's at the Hague, Alena Casas-Montanez & Amnesty International's Natt Cannock
The South African Local Government Association has started its two-day conference aimed at improving ward committees. The association is expected to discuss how to better re-position the committees to better serve the communities they live in.
Despite challenges facing teachers, according to a report by South African Council for Educators the number of Code Violations have stabilised. This came out at their media briefing at Centurion, Pretoria where they were releasing their annual report for 2015/2016 .Stephen Kirker speaks to SACE Communications Manager, Themba Ndlovu.
This afternoon, state witness Luthando Siyoni will be appearing before the Port Elizabeth High Court, in the murder and abduction trial of businessman Christopher Panayiotou- this follows his brief appearance yesterday afternoon. This morning defence counsel argued against the admissability of Siyoni's statements.
The parents of a missing three-year-old girl at Setjwetla in Alexandra north of Johannesburg are distraught after flash floods swept her away last night. The father Shadrack Chauke has joined police divers as they comb the banks of the Jukskei River to search for her. Recounting the ordeal, Chauke said as the water increased, he took the child and climbed a tree for safety. But the tree gave in, and both of them fell into the water. Meanwhile, flash floods in Moshawane village near Mahikeng in the North West have claimed the life of a boy.
Republican Donald Trump is now the President of the United States. Democrat candicate Hillary Clinton conceded the election having faltered at the final hurdle and contrary to polls that gave her an inside chance of taking the White House. Trump won Trump has 288 electoral colleges versus Clinton's 215. He need just 270 to take the Oval office.
Donald Trump is the new USA President.The Republican nominee's projected victory came down to a handful of key swing states, despite months of polling that favoured the Democrat nominee, Hilary Clinton. Trump the 45th US president, took to the stage at his victory rally in New York and told those who were gathered that It's time for America to come together as one united people...
The 2015 /2016, Reconciliation Barometer Survey has found that there is a persistence of racialised responses and experiences where perceptions of economic security among ordinary citizens are concerned and that social relations have been placed under further strain against the backdrop of a tough political and economic environment. The report further state the glaring examples of the socio-economic inequalities were seen during the #FeesMustFall campaign. Elnari Potgieter who is the co-author of the report...
The ANC is currently locked in a National Working Committee meeting that is expected to discuss amongst other things the public protector's report on State of Capture. Several ANC and alliance partner leaders have called for the resignation of party members who have been implicated in the report. ANC MP and Chairperson of Parliament's Justice Committee says collective responsibility has its own limitations and those implicated should take personal responsibility for their actions.
Eskom's Independent non-executive board member, Dr. Pat Naidoo says all its contracts complied with the power utility's Procurement Policies. Naidoo was addressing the media following the release of the State of Capture report by the Public Protector, which flagged some of the contracts that Eskom undertook with Tegeta. Take a listen to an extract of Eskom's Independent non-executive board member, Dr. Pat Naidoo, giving a detailed report of every contract they've signed with Gupta owned company, Tegeta.
The Public Protector report claims amongst other things that several people, including members of the Gupta family, knew in advance about then Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene's sacking. This is just one of the many revelations that came out of former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's investigation into allegations of State of Capture of government institutions and leaders. The report was released yesterday after President Jacob Zuma withdrew his interdict against the release of the report.
The South Gauteng High Court has dismissed an urgent application by a group of Wits University students to interdict the writing of exams. The students made an urgent application on Tuesday, citing extensive disruptions to the academic programme caused by the recent Fees Must Fall protests. The university says all exams will be written as scheduled.
The Public Protector’s State of Capture Report claims, amongst other things, that several people, including members of the Gupta family, knew in advance about then Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene's sacking. Advocate Madonsela also observed that Eskom’s Board “was improperly appointed and not in line with the spirit of the King III report on good Corporate Governance” and that Eskom as a State Owned Entity was expected to act in the best interests of South Africa…”appears that the Board may have failed to do so”. Krivani Pillay speaks to Executive Secretary for the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, Lawson Naidoo
The Public Protector report claims amongst other things that several people, including members of the Gupta family, knew in advance about then Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene's sacking. This is just one of the many revelations that came out of former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela's investigation into allegations of State of Capture of government institutions and leaders. The report was released yesterday after President Jacob Zuma withdrew his interdict against the release of the report.
67% of working mothers spend half their day or more unable to cope with the demands on their time. This is according to research by the Working Mothers Expo, taking place on 4-6 November 2016 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The research has also revealed that one in three working mothers spend nine or more hours at work every day and check their work email before they even get out of bed in the morning. Taking place for the first time, the Expo is expected brings together everything working mothers need under one roof, including world class products, services and speakers and great entertainment for the kids.
Students, academics, religious leaders and NGO's are marching to parliament today ahead of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's Mid-Term Budget. Gordhan will table his budget this afternoon and is expected to touch on issues surrounding tertiary education fees. Meanwhile there is mounting pressure on government to reduce debt by containing spending.
There is a stand-off between Red Ants, police and squatters in Majakaneng over the eviction from land they have been illegally occupying on at least three privately-owned farms in Brits in the North West. The residents have cited a lack of space in the nearby village for their illegal move.
Last year the communities of Ethwathwa and Daveyton made headlines after spate of vigilante killings were reported, including the attack and burning to death of 16-year old twin brothers Sabelo and Samekelo Maisela, who were also suspected of being members of the OVL gang. Etwatwa residents claim the OVL gang have been terrorising them for months and are behind a spate of robberies, assaults and murders in the area. They claim that when gang members are arrested by the police they are soon freed and continue to harass residents. For more on this we are joined on the line by Lieutenant Colonel Lungelo Dlamini. Gauteng: SAPS Provincial Spokesperson.
African Farmers Association of South Africa are currently marching to Union Buildings to raise their dissatisfaction with what they call slow land reform. The association says the land reform is a ticking time bomb that will explode unless government acts promptly. It is also calling for more government support for black farmers. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by African Farmers Association of South Africa's Secretary General Aggrey Mahanjana.
Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga says the ANAs have not been scrapped and negotiations continue.
Executive Committee Member at the South African Reward Association (SARA), Laurence Grubb says should government be allowed to make decision on the remunerations of executives this could have unintended consequences. Grubb further says shareholders are the ones who have invested their money in a company and it is they who should be controlling how its executives are rewarded. For more on this we are joined on the line by Executive Committee Member at the South African Reward Association (SARA) and Master Reward Specialist, Laurence Grubb
With a budget of over R6 billion required, Durban is at risk of losing the 2022 Commonwealth Games due to missed deadlines. The 2022 Games is still without a local organising committee while government has not confirmed underwriting arrangements nor made any payments to the Commonwealth Games Federation
Cross-Border crime has become a serious problem to South Africa with hundreds of Rhinos being poached every year. Also car and drug syndicates have been using the Kwazulu-Natal and Mozambique border as a happy hunting ground for their criminal acts. The syndicates are said to have become more violent as they now target households. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by Police Minister Nathi Nhleko in Manguzi Northern Kwazulu-Natal.
Steven Kiker speaks to Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform Mr Mcebisi Skwatsha will be meeting with the family members of persons/ families forcefully removed from places like Simonstown, Retreat, Goodwood, Ndabeni to give progress report regarding their applications for restitution. The meeting will also be used to clarify the implications of a judgement recently handed down by the Constitutional Court, the LAMOSA judgement
The office of the Secretary to the National Assembly says there is no legislation or rule that requires the head of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to seek clarity from the speaker before returning to work. This comes after Police Minister Nathi Nhleko said he has advised the suspended head of IPID Robert McBride to ask National Assembly Speaker Baleka Mbete where he should report for duty. Mercedes Besent tells us more.
Wits University Vice Chancellor Adam Habib has accused student leaders of engaging in the 'politics of spectacle' and, not, principle. He was speaking at a press briefing today, to call off an historic general assembly. The assembly was expected to reveal a 'pledge' in which the university promised to march alongside students to demand free, quality, decolonised, higher education for all. The pledge puts the blame squarely at the feet of government for disinvesting in higher education and pricing poor South Africans out of the system. Habib says the students demands are legitimate but some compromises are needed. Dhashen Moodley spoke with WITS SRC Secretary General Fasiha Hassan about why they failed to find common ground. He then spoke with Professor Pitika Ntuli who has been mediating the discussions among the various stakeholders...
The Commission for Gender Equality says political parties have failed to honour their promise to achieve a 50-50 gender parity in local government after the 2016 Municipal Elections. The commission has found that women make up barely 40% of the total councillors in the eight metros. Out of a total of 1477 councillors, political parties deployed 908 men and 569 women to the positions. Dhashen Moodley asked Dr Nondumiso Maphazi, Commissioner for the Commission of Gender Equality, about their analysis...
The independent fact-checking website 'Africa Check' has reported that only 45% of the student body at WITS voted for the university to reopen. However, Wits University has repeated claims that 77% of the student body want lectures to resume. Professor Adam Habib says Africa Check should know better. SAFM Midday Live presenter Dhashen Moodley began by asking Professor Habib about the conditions attached to the court interdict that prevents students from gathering on campus...
Students must transform the #FeesMustFall movement into a formal and accountable national organisation that rejects violence. That's according to Jane Duncan, Professor of Journalism at the University of Johannesburg. She believes students need to be afforded space to rebuild the "mass character" of their struggle and warned national political parties to back off on claiming victories, or exerting control over the students' struggles. Professor Duncan argues that the escalating violence witnessed in protests are a reaction to police brutality, amid the closure of democratic space, and splits in the student movement...
** Jane Duncan is Professor of Journalism at the University of Johannesburg. Her article in the Conversation Africa is titled "Why student protests in South Africa have turned violent". Duncan's book - Protest Nation: the Right to Protest in South Africa - has just been released by UKZN press.
Lawyers and doctors are involved in a criminal syndicate to loot the Road Accident Fund. Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu says they became suspicious when several medical files of road accident victims went missing at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto. The stolen files are being used to claim compensation from fund. Two people have already been arrested after they were found in possession of patient files. Dhashen Moodley spoke with the MEC....
Wits University started polling students at 7 o'clock this morning. 37 000 sms have been sent to students asking whether they agree to a resumption of lectures on Monday. University spokesperson Shirona Patel says they expect to know the results later this afternoon. Dhashen Moodley asked Patel to explain how the referendum responds to the demands for free education, an end to in-sourcing of workers and meaningful dialogue...
SABMiller, the brewery which grew into a global giant from its foundations in South Africa over 130 years ago, has officially been taken over in one of the largest deals in corporate history. Shareholders in SABMiller grew out of Johannesburg's South African Breweries. It voted in favour of the 100-billion-dollar deal which will see the number one brewer AB InBev take over the company. However the approval of the deal that sees the largest and second largest brewers become one company is far from certain. Catherine Drew...
Will you support or boycott brands that continue to advertise on the SABC? The Right2Know Campaign marches in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban today calling on major companies to pull their adverts from SABC radio and tv, until the crisis at the public broadcaster is resolved. Right to Know's Media freedom and diversity organiser Micah Reddy handed over the memorandum in Johannesburg to FNB and SAB Miller...
In recent weeks South Africa has found itself with its back against the wall- with rating agencies circling it. However, this morning Brand SA woke up to good news that South Africa having moved two notches up on the World Economic Forum (WEF)'s Global Competitiveness Index. This was in its performance in 10 of the12 pillars evaluated by the Forum. Brand SA- CEO, Dr Kingsley Makhubela...
As the food security debate rages on across the globe, following the crippling effects of the recent drought, a report titled- Southern Africa's Climate Change Conflicts has been released by African Conflict Monitor (ACM). The ACM's Founding Editor, James Hall deviates slightly from this debate, as he looks at the security danger posed by rising temperatures in the African continent. African Conflict Monitor (ACM)'s Founding Editor, James Hall....
The Presidential Commission will be beefing up security during its hearings to identify long-term solutions to fund university education in South Africa. The commission is concerned by threats to disrupt the work of the commission. The Fees Commission spokesperson Musa Ndwandwe says mysterious forces are at play in protests at universities...
Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande, is still baffled as to why students at institutions of higher education are protesting. This is despite his announcement yesterday that over 70% of students will be relieved from fee increases next year. Earlier Wits students had broken through one of the gates at the Univerity's Braamfontein campus and made their way to the Parktown Medical and Education Campuses. Police fired teargas to try and disperse the crowd but their attempts have been unsuccessful- Students at the University of Cape Town have blocked various entrances at the institution- At the University of Pretoria, students ' bodies are meeting this after students called for the closure of the institution following Nzimande's announcement. The EFF students' command member, Kabelo Mahlobogwane, has conceded that they are divided over the issue- The students at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University have embarked on peaceful protest is part of the national shutdown of universities. While, academic activities at Fort Hare university remain suspended- Meanwhile, the university of Kwa-Zulu Natal is calm as students continues with their classes following s two week closure- following an unrest at the various campuses with the students demanding a zero-fee increase for next year.
A group of business professionals in South Africa are opposed to a new law that would require banks to establish the source of wealth for clients who are prominent and influential people. The Progressive Professionals Forum says the Financial Intelligence Center Amendment Bill, which seeks to curb money laundering, will treat the rich and powerful as suspects in a crime. The bill requires banks to verify the identities of all their customers, monitor transactions and report anything out of the ordinary. The obligation is commonly referred to as KYC - " know your customer". President Jacob Zuma has delayed signing the bill because the PPForum's President Mzwanele Jimmy Manyi says it specifically violates their right of association and the presumption of innocence extended to all citizens....
South Africa will need to create nearly 10 million new jobs in the next decade to fulfill its National Development Plan(NDP). Unemployment currently stands at a staggering 27%, which amounts to 6 million jobless citizens in the country. The SA economy barely escaped a recession in September after posting 0.6% growth (year on year) amid concerns of political uncertainty. Cambridge University Economics Professor Jose Gabriel Palmer says South Africa's economy is the worst of both Latin America and Asia. The problem is low growth and low employment. He is attending the NEDLAC Summit in Johannesburg where business, labour and government meet to address barriers to job creation. Can job creation be achieved in the face of a predatory elite who are narrowly focused on accumulating resources at the expense of the poor?
Johannesburg Water says the city uses 1.5 billion litres of water a day with business being the biggest consumer. The company says businesses are not allowed to use sprinklers on their companies gardens at all times. There have been no water restrictions in the city in recent weeks due to satisfactory water levels from supplying resevoirs. Lack of rain and leakages in the water system has left most parts of the country with restricted water supply. For more on this we are joined on the line by Johannesburg Water Spokesperson, Eleanor Mavimbela.
The Democractic Alliance says it will challenge the reappointment of SAA Board Chairperson Dudu Myeni to the new SAA board. Myeni retained her position even after she oversaw the airlines recent financial management woes that have left the carrier needing a R16 Billion bailout to survive. There are also fears that the airline's planes could be grounded if the issues are not resolved. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by Spokesperson to DA Leader Mmusi Maimane, Mabine Seabe
Cabinet has re-appointed Dudu Myeni to stay on as the chairperson of the loss-making national airline. Cabinet says Myeni, was appointed alongside 11 other board members to the board of South African Airways (SAA). The new team will meet Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan who would provide direction from a shareholder perspective. Bloomberg News reporter, Amogelang Mbatha...
Nquthu and Jozini local municipalities might resort to a coin toss in order to elect new municipal leadership. This after the two municipalities in the North of KwaZulu-Natal failed to find a solution to the impasse between political parties. Major parties, the ANC and the IFP with their respective coalition partners, have equal seats in the municipalities. The Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs has intervened to find a solution to the deadlock. Meanwhile, in Limpopo, there is a municipality that has a leadership in place, however its unable to perform its duties due to lack of resources. This after the troubled Thabazimbi local Municipality had all its moveable assets attached by the sheriff of the court- due to failer to honour repayments of its debts. Spokesperson for the department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs in KZN, Lennox Mabaso- our reporter, Jabulani Baloyi & Independent Political Analyst, Elvis Masoga...
Futuregrowth, one of South Africa's largest money managers, has abandoned plans to fund state owned enterprises in the country. In a statement released last night, they are deeply concerned by a recent and sudden announcement that the President would chair a council to directly oversee the parastatals. It was last Monday when Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe made the announcement that's fueling the concerns today... Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe....
Bishops from various church groupings including Anglican and Methodist and Catholic briefed the media about "marginalisation along racial lines" following events at Pretoria Girls high this week. They also outlined solutions to the problem, which includes closer cooperation between the clergy and government. Secretary General for the South African Council of Churches, Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana...
Four other teachers at Ekucabangeni High School at Nquthu in northern KwaZulu-Natal have been suspended for allegedly being involved in sexual activities with learners. KZN Education MEC Mthandeni Dlungwane says his department has been conducting an investigation that implicated the four in the school's sex scandal. Dlungwane was at the court appearance of the teacher who was suspended after video footage of him having sex with a learner went viral. The teacher is facing rape and sexual assault charges. KZN Education MEC for Education, Mthande Dlungwane......
Cosatu has lashed out at the MK Military Veterans Association for attacking Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan. In a statement, the federation says it was insincere and distasteful for MKMVA Chair Kebby Maphatsoe and Treasurer-general Des van Rooyen to slam Gordhan in public when they are all colleagues. Maphatsoe is the deputy minister of defence and military veterans while van Rooyen,who Gordhan succeeded as Finance Minister is minister of Co-operative Governance. Cosatu spokesperson Sizwe Phamla explains...
As the stand-off between Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan and the Hawks continues - Gordhan has also been accused of frustrating SAA's plans to secure funding. SAA's former audit and risk committee member Yakhe Kwinana resigned in anticipation of the airline's liquidation. Kwinana says Gordhan has refused to give SAA a loan guarantee until a new board is in place. Tshepo Mongoai reports…
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa, NERSA, will appeal a court ruling that set aside part of an electricity price increase it had approved earlier this year. In March, NERSA approved a tariff increase of 9.4 percent requested by power utility Eskom. The Pretoria High Court however found that Eskom did not follow correct procedure when requesting the temporary additional increase. Regulator member for electricity at NERSA, Thembani Bukula..
As part of Women's Month, the Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu is launching a booklet that looks at financing women-owned SMMEs. The Booklet sets to explore the finance pipeline for women-owned small businesses. The launch of the booklet will also be used as a platform to address challenges female entrepreneurs face. Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu...
The DA has accused ANC members of the Portfolio Committee on Communications of backtracking on the issue of an inquiry into the SABC affairs. The DA's Phumzile van Damme says the members have turned a blind eye at the worsening management issues at the public broadcaster. This is after committee members questioned the spending of millions on legal fees and employee disputes. Chairman of the Portfolio Committee on Communications, Humphrey Maxegwana and Director at Media Monitoring Africa, William Bird....
224 councillors in the Ekurhuleni metro municipality have just been been sworn-in at the first inaugural council meeting under way in Germiston on Gauteng's East Rand. Now the council is currently electing the speaker of the council... Independent Political Analyst, Chris Matubatuba...
According to a report by Bloomberg Intelligence, Africa needs an estimated $100 billion a year to finance its infrastructure projects. Last year, only half of the amount was spent on infrastructure development. This as Infrastructure Investment in the continent hits an impasse. Sonia Balderia who is a Construction and Building Materials Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence...
Civil society group My Vote Counts has approached the Cape High Court in a bid to have the Protection of Access to Information declared invalid. The organisation wants parties to reveal the names of their private sources of funding. Last year the Constitutional Court that the access to information on the private funding of political parties be done through the act. My colleague, Stephen Kirker spoke to My Vote Counts National Coordinator Jannine Ogle and started by asking her about the importance of the public having this information..
Gauteng education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says there will be no help for parents who want children to be placed in schools in January. Lesufi says it slows down start of the academic year. Lesufi this morning gave a progress report on the learner placement for the year 2017. The new online registration system for Grade 1 to Grade 8 learners saw about 680 000 applications this year being received. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi......
Two-hundred-and-70 councillors are being sworn in at the City of Johannesburg metro council's inaugural meeting. The meeting will also see the elections of the mayor, council speaker and chief whip. Johannesburg became a hung council after no party obtained an outright victory. The ANC got 121 seats and the DA 104, with EFF getting 30 seats. The newly-elected councillors took their oath of office at the Joburg City Hall in the presence of Judge President Dustin Mlambo. Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Global Dialogue, Sanusha Naidu...
Scientist at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Annemarie Oldewage has found that there is an increase of trace metal in the fish caught in the Vaal Dam. According the study there are also health risk is also associated with the consumption of the fish. Scientist at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Annemarie Oldewage..
Government says it is preparing to make an offer once all loss of support claims have been completed on the Marikana tragedy. It says it will ready to settle the claims in a few months once its legal team has finished consultations. Proposed amounts for settlement of the claims of unlawful detention and arrest are completed. With regard to personal injury claims, Government has proposed usage of one set of medical experts to help in quantifying the claims in order to reduce costs. Marikana victims Lawyer, Andries Nkomo and Spokesperson for the Presidency Dr Bongani Ngqulunga
The Democratic Alliance (DA) seems confident of governing Tshwane after forming a coalition with several other opposition parties, with he African National Congress also being certain that it will retain the Ekurhuleni Metro municipality. However, there's still uncertainty over the future of the City of Johannesburg. Talking to my Colleague Sakina Kamwendo on the Forum@8- EFF leader Julius Malema said should the Gauteng PEC had been the one that led the coalition talks- they could have been strong armed into conceding to coalition with the ANC in the province...
University of Johannesburg recently conducted a survey of voters as they exited from voting stations having cast their ballot in the recent local government elections. The research was undertaken in Mpumalanga, North West, Free State and Gauteng. According to their findings. the ANC performed well among voters living in RDP houses and recipients of social grants, while the EFF did well among voters living in shacks. Senior Researcher at the UJ Centre for Social Change Dr Carin Runciman........
Its almost two weeks since South African cast their ballots in the Local Government Elections which took place on August the third. Still key municipalities haven't appointed councils as they were in talks to form form possible coalition governments. Today the EFF and DA are to announce the progress made in coalition talks in hung municipalities across the country. Shortly after the elections the EFF did indicate that they are open for coalition talks....
One in four women is raped in the so-called platinum mining belt of South Africa, Rustenburg. This is according to a report by Doctors Without Borders, tittled: Disturbing levels of rap and sexual violence. Sarah-Jane Steele, she is the Mission Epidemiologist of MSF in South Africa....
The South African Institute for Race Relations says the draft mining charter may not be the key to overcome inequality. Head of Policy Research at the Institute of Race Relations, Dr Anthea Jeffery...
Residents of the Marikana mining town near Rustenburg in North West say little has been done to better living conditions in the area. It is here were exactly four years ago 34 mine workers were killed during a confrontation with police. Thousands of mine workers at Lonmin had embarked on an unprotected industrial action, demanding a monthly salary of 12-thousand 500 rand. Ten more people including mine security and police officers were killed on the days preceding the August 16 tragedy.
NSFAS has started with the roll-out of the Student Centered Model aimed at cutting out the middle man. The model is a direct system of communication and application between students and Nsfas. The system works from registration phase to completion of studies. NSFAS Spokesperson, Kagisho Mamabolo.....
Xenophobic attacks, violence against gays and lesbians are topping the agenda at the National Conference on Violence in Pretoria. The three day conference is a first of its kind aimed at addressing the violence that has plagued South African society. Conference Co-Chairperson from Unisa and the South African Medical Research Council, Professor Ashley van Niekerk...
Trade union NUMSA has thrown its weight behind CEPPWAWU on the petrol strike. The union reportedly says it will join the strike should the employers fail to make an offer. The strike by at least 15-thousand workers in the petrol-chemical industry is into its second week, affecting fuel supplies. CEPPWAWU is demanding a nine per cent wage increase while employers are offering seven per cent. Dhashen Moodley spoke to CEPPWAWU's General Secretary, Simon Mofokeng.......
More submissions from various stakeholders in the education sector are being presented before the Commission of Inquiry into Higher Education and Training funding. The Commission is looking into the feasibility of free tertiary education in South Africa. Its proceedings began yesterday with the South African Union of Students calling for zero fee increases for next year. Dhashen Moodley spoke to South African Union Students' Secretary General, Sthembiso Ndlovu and Andile Tshona, Spokesperson for the Commission of Inquiry into Higher Education and Training...
Workers at three Eskom power stations have embarked on a strike. The National Union of Mine-workers says workers at more power stations are set to join the wage strike. NUM members downed tools after wage talks with the utility deadlock at the weekend. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Paris Mashego: NUM Eskom Energy Sector Coordinator and Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
Mabala Noise Founder and ANCYL Treasurer Reggie Nkabinde has just addressed a media briefing on corruptions allegations made against him and his company by EFF leader Julius Malema. Last Friday EFF leader Julius Malema made allegations of money laundering against Mabala Noise Entertainment Founder Reggie Nkabinde. He claimed artists are paid millions in tender money.
Do you consider yourself a future leader or influencer in South Africa? Then, you're invited to apply for the Chevening. Applications open today for a fully funded one-year master's programme at any UK university. Since 1983, the international awards scheme has developed global leaders throughout the world. The Chevening is a rigorous selection process so who better to offer you some advice on standing out than the British High Commissioner in South Africa. Dame Judith Macgregor says its fitting that the awards are being launched a day before women's day
ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe has also admitted defeat in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. This after it became clear that DA has won the majority votes, though it will need to form a coalition to govern. The ruling party has been sending conflicting messages with NEC member Jackson Mthembu accepting the loss. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Faculty Associate at the Albert Luthuli Centre for Responsible Leadership at the University of Pretoria, Professor Dumisani Hlophe and North West Provincial Electoral Officer, Dr Tumelontle Thiba...
Voting is underway in some polling stations in Vuwani in Limpopo, as Co-operative Governance Minister, Des van Rooyen and some MECs are in the area to monitor the process of voting there. Students at the North West University on the Potchefstroom campus are among the 75-thousand potential voters in the Tlokwe Municipality. The IEC in the province has reported that the Potchefstroom campus has over five-thousand registered voters. Meanwhile, scores of people will not be able to cast their votes in Marikana in the North West today, as they are registered elsewhere in the country. In Kwa-Zulu Natal- the IEC has dismissed the entire Ward 94 electoral staff at KwaMakhutha in the Ethekwini Municipality including the presiding officer and his deputy after irregularities were discovered in the special votes process. The staff at a ward in Dundee in northern KwaZulu-Natal have also been removed for a similar offence.
As South Africans that have registered for the special vote continue to cast their votes-Vuwnai in Limpopo is not without challenges, today the IEC officials were forced to set up their voting stations outside some designated venues as they are locked out. The gates have been locked since the beginning of a service shutdown as part of a prolonged demarcation protest in the troubled area. In the North West, there are reports that the Independent candidates in Potchefstroom in the North West, have threatened to take the IEC to the electoral court after tomorrow's municipal polls. They argue that following the amalgamation of Tlokwe and Ventersdorp municipalities, certain people are still voting at the wrong voting districts. In Gauteng, the residents of Freedom Park, south of Johannesburg last night set two Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) tents alight over power failures in the area. Lastly, opposition parties, the EFF and DA, have requested the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to re-run special voting in ward 3 of the Lekwa -Teemane Local Municipality, in Bloemhof in the North West. The parties allege that an IEC official was seen coming in and out of the voting station caring a ballot box without a police escort from the law enforcers.
South Africa’s 3rd largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, Cipla is planning to establish joint ventures with Morocco and later in Algeria to have manufacturing facilities in these countries which will in return increasing its antiretroviral (ARV) manufacturing capacity in Africa. We speak to Cipla SA’s CEO Paul Miller who says that currently one-in-three HIV/Aids patients in Africa use a Cipla product
South African National Aids Council Trust's Dr Fareed Abdullah speaks to Midday Live host Dhashen Moodley at the 21st International Aids conffrence talking about treatment and prevention of HIV/Aids.
Many have termed the 21st Worlds Aids conference underway in Durban a talks shop- where thousands of delegates from across the globe will converge to deliberate and find a lasting solution in addressing the HIV/AIDS pandemic. What then happens to those resolutions taken here? Do they get implemented? Are policies in line with the requests of those affected and infected by this virus- formulated and adopted? Dhashen Moodley speaks to Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi
South Africa currently treats 3.4 million people with ARVS – but if its to meet WHO guidelines, that number must double to treat everyone that tests positive. The UN says that figure could be around 7 million people. So where will the drugs come from? South Africa has allocated over 5 million rand over the next 3 years to build a state run pharmaceutical company. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor.
MÉDECINS Sans Frontières, MSF, has been calling on the government to break the patent on big pharmaceutical companies and issue a compulsory licence for generic firms to make their own versions. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Leena Menghaney
Dr Tom Achoki says HIV infections have increased by 74% in the past 10 years world wide
Twelve groups are reportedly illegal mining chrome with the help of rich investors in Tjibeng Village near Burgersfort. The investors reportedly provide equipment for the illegal miners otherwise known as the Zama Zama's to mine the chrome. The community says it started illegal mining after unsuccessful mining licence applications. Dhashen Moodley spoke to one of the Investors, Mr Ndou and AcitonAid South Africa's Christopher Rutledge...
The Vembe District Municipality is in a process to conclude the establishment of a new municipality- which will comprise of Malamulele and some part of Vuwani. This as the boycott of services in Vuwani enters its third month- with some residents in the area not wanting their area to be included into a new municipality being established in Vhembe district. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality, Tshitereke Matibe...
The Ethekwini Municipality has committed itself to helping the parents and relatives of the eight children who were killed in a fire accident in a children's home at Newlands East in Durban. The deceased were among 18 children being accommodated at the Lake Haven Child and Youth Care Centre in Parlock. The fire reportedly broke out around 2am this morning. Dhashen Moodley spoke to our reporter, Fanele Mhlongo, Police Spokesperson, Lt. Colonel Thulani Zwane and Social Development Spokesperson Ncumisa Ndenu...
The Ad-Hoc Committee tasked with appointing the new public protector- yesterday finalised the shortlisting of 14-candidates. Some of those who made it to the shortlist incluse, the current Deputy Public Protector Advocate Kevin Malunga, Western Cape High Court Judge Siraj Desai and Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions Willie Hofmeyr. However, Corruption Watch says public participation in the process is far from over. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Kavisha Pillay a project manager for Bua Mzansi, a public protector campaign..
It's estimated that more than a trillion dollars has disappeared from Africa since 1980. At the current exchange rate, that's nearly 15 trillion rand - or Australia's GDP - that could have been spent on improving life for all who live on the continent. How does this happen? In the largest economy on the continent, companies exporting oil have been robbing Nigerians of billions for decades. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan...
Today is the start of the five-day countdown to the 21st International AIDS Conference in Durban. The public has been urged to wear black, white and red clothing, the official conference colours, to remember those affected by or living with HIV/AIDS. Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, is visiting the Nkosi's Haven in Johannesburg to launch the 5-Day countdown towards the Conference. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Head of Communications, at the Department of Health, Popo Maja..
Border control has been tightened at Beitbridge due to the call by protesters for a shutdown of Zimbabwe. Reports from the border post say the numbers of Zimbabweans entering South Africa are higher than for a normal weekday. Zimbabwe's government has warned that police will crush any public protests today. Dhashen Moodley spoke to our correspondent Shingai Nyoka and Rudzani Tshivhase at Beitbridge Border post......
The United Nations' food agency is short on funds to provide relief in seven southern African countries hardest hit by a blistering drought. The World Food Programme says that the drought in Zimbabwe has exacerbated the economic meltdown fuelling more unrest. The drought is blamed on the El Nino weather phenomenon - which warms the surface waters of the Pacific Ocean. Even ratings agency, Moody's has warned recently that the severe regional drought would impact South Africa. Dhashen Moodley spoke to UN's World Food Programme - David Orr
Zimbabwe is reportedly preparing for another crippling stay-away tomorrow as the public continues its protests on the banning of import goods. Campaigners have lobbyed citizens to intensify their protests as the police continued with a crackdown on protesters. The campaigners say police brutality will not stop them from continuing their fight. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Mr Moyo, a teacher in Beitbridge about the current situation on the ground and Zimbabwe Exiles Forum's Advocate Gabriel Shumba........
The ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe says that Communications Minister, Faith Muthambi's absence from yesterday's party Sub-committee on Communications is not an indication of defiance. Last week the chairperson of the committee Jackson Mthembu indicated that the ruling party would meet with Muthambi to discuss the recent developments at the SABC. Mantashe says that the SABC should reconsider challenging the ruling by telecommunications regulator ICASA. During a media briefing in Sandton yesterday, ICASA ordered that the public broadcaster withdraw its decision not to broadcast visuals of violent protests. SABC Chief Operations Officer, Hlaudi Motsoeneng indicated that ICASA, being a Chapter 9 institution, can only make recommendations which are not binding by court of law. Dhashen Moodley spoke to ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe....
There are nearly 7 million HIV positive people in South Africa with around half of them on on ARV treatment. It costs government 23-billion-rand - which is more than the global fund spends on the continent each year. The US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief has pledged six-billion-rand towards ending the AIDS pandemic in South Africa ahead of the aids conference next week. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi...
The Department of Correctional Services says Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) stalwart Kenny Motsamai released on parole today after 27 years in prison. Motsamai was arrested in 1989 with three APLA accomplices for armed robbery and murder of traffic officer who witnessed the robbery. Motsamai was sentenced to life for his part in the APLA sanction robbery of a supermarket in Rustenburg. Motsamai has called for a stop to factionalism in the PAC. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Correctional Services Spokesperson, Manelisi Wolela and PAC President, Luthando Mbinda...
Today is the last day for the public to lodge objections on candidates with the ad-hoc committee appointed to elect a new Public Protector. The committee plans to finalise a shortlist of candidates by next week. The ad-hoc committee has to report to the National Assembly by August 31. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee appointed to elect the new Public Protector, Makhosi Khoza.....
Infrastructure projects are set to benefit millions when the National Lottery Commission hands over its charity donations. The money is aimed at early childhood development projacts across the country. The National lottery was introduced to South Africa on 11 March 2000. Dhashen Moodley spoke to National Lotteries Commission's Chairperson Professor Alfred Nevhutanda....
South Africa's economy is now expected to grow by a mere 0.1 per cent this year from an earlier forecast of 0.6 per cent. That is according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). But Treasury has shown a brave face saying yesterday, that it is more positive about growth than the IMF. Dimakatso Leshoro has the details...
As Zimbabweans returned to work, the police announced they have arrested dozens of people including a Belgian national, following Wednesday's mass stayaway. Police spokesperson Charity Charamba said despite the isolated incidents of violence, the situation in Zimbabwe remained generally calm. The ruling party condemned the stayway describing it as part of a regime change agenda. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Economist Dr Iraj Abedian....
New York, like Johannesburg is a melting pot of various cultures, languages and peoples. A money transfer company called Mama Money says that South Africa is the most expensive country in the world for migrants sending money back home. They estimate that for every one hundred rand sent abroad, nearly 20-rand is charged in fees. The global price average is less than 9-rand. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Mama Money's co-founder is Mathieu Coquillon...
Communications regulator ICASA will deliver its verdict on the censorship complaint against the SABC. The battle lines have been drawn and those now accusing the SABC of censoring the news include, among others, the ANC, the SACP, the Right 2 Know Campaign, the SOS Coalition, the Treatment Action Campaign, Media Monitoring Africa, seven former SABC executives and six suspended SABC journalists. The public broadcaster has defended its decision by saying that images of property being destroyed, glamorises and promotes violence in South Africa. Several lobby groups held a protest at the broadcasters head office in Auckland Park on Friday and thereafter marched to the Constitutional Court. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Save our SABC Coalition (SOS)Project Coordinator Duduetsang Makuse...
This is the scene outside the SABC's headquarters in Johannesburg today, where members of another political party are protesting. Our reporter Sashin Naidoo will tell us more shortly. But first, the SABC has just issued a statement clarifying its position on broadcasting visuals showing the destruction of property by South Africans. The Broadcasting Corporation would like to stress that it was an "editorial decision" and not a "policy decision" that saw it pull visuals of violent protests from television news. This was the broadcasters response to an ANC's press conference yesterday, where the ruling party's Jackson Mthembu told journalists that the SABC's is acting unconstitutionally. Mthembu who heads up the ANC's Communications Committee says the party speaks with one voice and will be meeting with the Communications Minister Faith Muthambi on Monday. Dhashen Moodley spoke to the SABC Spokesperson and former SABC GCEO for Radio, Govin Reddy
The National Freedom Party (NFP) is planning to take its disqualification from contesting the August 3 local government elections to the Constitutional Court. This after the electoral court dismissed their application to have the IEC to review the process which led the party being disqualified. Dhashen Moodley spoke to NFP Acting National Chairperson, Bheki Gumbi...
Convicted murderer, Oscar Pistorius, will not appeal his six-year prison sentence. Judge Thokozile Masipa handed down the sentence in the High Court in Pretoria earlier today. She found that Pistorius was a suitable candidate for rehabilitation and that this sentence did not weigh heavily on the deterrence and retribution. The former Paralympic shot and killed his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in February 2013. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Senior Lecturer at the Department of Public and Procedural Law, University of Johannesburg, Advocate Radley Henrico...
The African National Congress in Kwa-Zulu Natal says it has appointed a Task team to look into the political killings in the province. This after an ANC ward councillor candidate, Thembi Mbongo was shot in full view of her children and husband in Newcastle. She is the seventh ANC member killed in the province since March this year. ANC KZN said this during a media briefing on their on-going election campaign. Dhashen Moodley spoke to ANC provincial spokesperson Mdumiseni Ntuli....
Over 500-families have fled Mozambique due to the renewed violence between the government of Mozambique and armed opposition militants. More than 20 years after the end of a decades-long civil war, sporadic fighting has again flared up between the government and fighters loyal to the opposition, forcing growing numbers of refugees to cross the border into neighbouring Zimbabwe. The ruling party, Frelimo, has been in power since Mozambique's independence from Portugal in 1975, but the opposition, Renamo, is demanding an independent government in the north. Meanwhile, Malawi former president Bakili Muluzi has offered to take up the mediation role along with other former heads of state from Sadc region, saying the escalation of skirmishes was destabilising the region. Bongi Gwlaa spoke to our correspondent in Malawi, George Mhango and a consultant who is with the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and freelance journalist, Liesl Louw- Vaudran...
Icasa workers are continuing with their strike for bonuses and change of policy. About fifty workers went on strike yesterday demanding increases that they say they are yet to receive in two years. Bongi Gwala spoke to ICASA CEO Pakamile Pongwana...
The Communications Workers Union has lambasted private media houses for criticizing the SABC over journalist freedom. The union says it is not surprised by the DA's attack on the public broadcaster. They have also questioned the morality of former Group CEO Jimi Matthews. Bongi Gwala spoke to the Union's Secretary General Aubrey Tshabalala...
Independence Day is a public holiday and just like in the movie, Americans will be celebrating with fireworks and parades, barbecues and picnics. But will they be barbecuing meat from Karoo, drinking wine from Stellenbosch and biting into naartjies from Ceres? More than 7-thousand South African products have duty free access to the US market through a trade deal called AGOA. In total, two-way trade amounts to over 200 billion rand last year. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Wandile Sihlobo- Lead Agricultural Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber...
The National Freedom Party (NFP) NEC member, Imam Sheik Manzzor says the National working committee has called for the suspension of certain party members pending an investigation to find out what went wrong. Manzzor has described the actions of some members as gross misconduct in failing to pay a deposit to the IEC for upcoming municipal elections. This as the Electoral court upheld the IEC's decision to exclude the NFP in the upcoming elections. Dhashen Moodley spoke to IEC Spokesperson, Kate Bapela and NFP KZN Spokesperson, Sabelo Sigudu....
It's time to pay your taxes. The 2016 tax season for individuals starts today. The South African Revenue Service is taking to the streets handing out information in an initiative called "walking for tax". Dhashen Moodley spoke to Mark Kingon, Group Executive for Relationship Management at
North West traditional affairs department is said to intensify its fight against illegal initiation schools across the province. This is after seventeen boys sustained injuries from botched circumcisions last week. COGTA Deputy minister Obed Bapela, earlier this month warned provinces against both abductions and the illegal operations of schools, saying those implicated would face the full might of the law. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Chairperson for Traditions, Customs and Culture in the North West Province, Kgosi Thari Maotwe...
The future of the taxi industry is being mapped out for Gauteng today. The provincial government in partnership with the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and National Taxi Alliance (NTA) is hosting a Taxi Indaba to address inefficiencies in the public transport system and strengthen public confidence. Dhashen Moodley spoke to MEC Community Safety Sizakele Nkosi Malobane ...
Petrol stations are NOT about to run out of fuel. Rumors have been spreading via twitter and whats-app that the country will face imminent fuel shortages as truck drivers in the fuel industry embark on a strike over wages. Meanwhile, Chevron is a leading refiner and marketer of petroleum products in South Africa. It says the deliveries and supplies to filling stations remain normal today. Representing Chevron and other refineries in the country is the National Petroleum Employers Association - . Dhashen Moodley spoke to its chairperson Zimisele Majamane...
Yesterday the department of arts and culture released a song to tackle racism. We return to that story now with Dr Abraham Serote who is the department's Director for social cohesion. He has a PHD from UCT on race and racism and has worked in government for 7 years. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Dr Abrahams Serote
The death toll resulting from the gun & bomb attack on Istanbul's Ataturk international airport stands at 36 while 140 other are injured. Its reported that three attackers arrived in a taxi and began firing at the terminal entrance yesterday and blew themselves up after police fired back. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Clinton Nagoor who is the Turkish Radio and Television News Editor...
ANC members who have registered to stand for the upcoming local government elections as independent candidates, have been served with notices of termination of the their membership by the party. The expelled members say they registered for the elections as independents after they were allegedly removed from the ANC nomination lists despite being elected by their respective communities. Dhashen Moodley spoke to our reporter, Patrick Dintwa and Spokesperson for the 4rum for service delivery within the Association for Independent Candidates, Kogisho Bothomane....
Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across the globe say the next three years are critical for their businesses. The KPMG's annual Global CEO Outlook has also found that the CEOs' view of growth potential in the world has shifted since the 2015 survey. Elvis Presslin speaks to KPMG Chairman, Ahmed Jaffer...
Co-operate Governance Minister, Des van Rooyen says his department along with Treasury will work to ensure that only qualified municipal managers are hired. Van Rooyen has also called for the professionalization of Municipal Managers and has applauded the Institute of South African Municipal Accounting Officers saying their conference hosted under the theme "Excellence in municipal governance" its a step in the right direction. Elvis Presslin speaks to the chairperson of Institute of South African Municipal Accounting Officers, Dan Mashitisho...
The Manufacturing Indaba is currently underway at Emperors Palace, east of Gauteng. The two day conference comes as the global markets are reacting to the uncertainty following the United Kingdom's vote to exit Europe last week. Manufacturing is South Africa's fourth-biggest economic sector and saw a recent recovery despite weak global demand. Elvis Presslin speaks to Chief Director of African Industrial Development at the Department of Trade and Industry, Nigel Gwynne- Evans....
The Gauteng City-Region Observatory has released the 2016 Quality of Life survey which measures the quality of life as well socio-economic circumstances and attitudes to service delivery for people living in the province. The survey is conducted every two years and aims to assist with assess and address the country's socio-economic challenges and achievements. Elvis speaks to director of Quality of Life survey, Graeme Gotz
UN Secretary General Ban ki Moon has called on the world to continue to help everyone blighted by drug abuse by integrating security and public safety. Moon says the illicit trade in drugs fosters transnational organized crime networks, systemic corruption and widespread violence. Ban Ki Moon' statement comes as the world observed International Day Against Drug Abuse yesterday... here is an except of what Ban Ki Moon said in 2014 during the High Level Panel Discussion on "Sustainable Development and the World Drug Problem: Challenges and Opportunities"... Elvis Presslin spoke to head of Social Development in Gauteng, Ms Shoki Tshabalal and Musician and Drug Abuse Activist Kabelo Mabalane...
In a statement, the National union of Mineworkers (NUM) says it is extremely disappointed by the decision taken by Eskom executives to pay themselves bonuses totaling to 6-millions rands. NUM says the power utility's executives deliberately leaked the document to employees to entice on the bonus payout in an effort to weaken the union. This comes amid wage negotiations at the power utility with unions asking for increases between 9% and 20%- with Eskom offering 7% wage increases across the board.Elvis Presslin spoke to Eskom's Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe, Paris Mashego, who is NUM Energy Sector Coordinator and South African Reward Association (SARA)'s Executive Committee member, Dr Mark Bussin...
The high court in Pretoria has dismissed the NPA and president Jacob Zuma's application for leave to appeal a decision on the spy tapes case. President Zuma and the NPA wanted to appeal the court's earlier ruling which set aside the prosecutions authority's 2009 decision to drop corruption charges against him. While reading the judgement, Judge Aubrey Ledwaba said the arguments presented by President Jacob Zuma's legal team has no merit. Dhashen Moodley speaks Ulrich Roux who is the Director at BDK Attorneys...
A majority decision by Britons to leave the European Union has left casualties strewn in its path. The value of the pound has fallen so much, that France has overtaken the UK as the world's 5th largest economy. In the wake of the news, UK Prime Minister David Cameron fought back tears as he announced his resignation. Dhashen Moodley speaks to our correspondent in London is Catherine Drew and South African living and working in London. Dr James Dray has a PHD in Politics from Oxford...
South Africa's reputation ranks 49th out of 70 countries measured in the 2016 Global Perceptions Survey. The RepTrak Study is conducted annually by Reputation House to rank a country's standings among the general population of the G8 countries. This includes the UK, Italy, France, Canada, the USA, Japan, Germany and Russia. The top performer Sweden scored 78 out of a possible 100 while South Africa received 49. Dhashne Moodley spoke to Dr. Dominik Heil, the Chairman of Reputation House..
Civil society groups, led by religious leaders earlier convened a meeting at Levubu to discuss a way forward for learners in the Vuwani area. Schooling in the are has been disrupted for over a month, with grade 12 learners missing mid year examinations. Meanwhile, Gift of the Givers has been running an education programme in Vuwani, Limpopo, this was in response to violent protests in the area which saw more than 20-school being burned down. Dhashen Moodley speaks to our reporter, Pimani Baloyi and Gift of the Givers' Head of Government and Corporate Affairs, Vader Kazi
Do you know what to do if you are caught up in a protest as a motorist? Also, who pays for any damage caused to your vehicle? The Automobile Association says the first, and most important action, is to avoid these areas as far as possible. Dhashen Moodley spoke to AA spokesperson Layton Beard....
Nearly two thirds of the country's economic activity and just over half of the jobs nationally are generated by cities in South Africa. But the inability of large segments of society to participate in this urban promise has lead to violence over expectations to access urban resources, services and opportunities. This is contained in the South Africa Cities Report - an Analytical Tool for reviewing the problems and opportunities facing cities. The typical city suffers from inefficiencies in energy, water, waste, food and transport. Landfill sites are fast running out of space, freshwater resources are constrained and greenhouse gas emissions are increasing. Dhashen Moodly speaks to CEO of the South African Cities Network is Sithole Mbanga says that the financing of cities is currently unsustainable
The ANC's head of elections and Minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane, has appealed to their members and residents of Tshwane to give the party a chance to prove that deploying Thoko Didiza as a mayoral candidate is the right decision. Mokonyane also gave a brief profile of Didiza as an activist
As the Brits prepare for a vote on whether they should the leave the EU or not. Some economists say that should the UK vote yes to the EU-exit, this would mean a rise in the cost of living. Dhashen Moodley speaks to lecturer at the Gordon Institute for Business Science (GIBS) Matthew Birtch...
Shops have been looted in Atteridgeville West of Pretoria. The main street into the township remains barricaded with rocks and burning tyres. Earlier a bus was set alight. Police are fighting to bring calm to the city as residents accuse the ANC of disrespecting them by announcing Thoko Didiza as mayoral candidate, ahead of current mayor Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Tshwane Metropolice Spokesperson, Isaac Mahamba...
On the forum at 8 this morning, the team hosted the DA and the EFF about the challenges they face in campaigning for the upcoming elections in August. The Da's Refiloe Ntsekhe and the EFF's Godrich Gardee both accused the ANC of using public resources in their campaigns, before accusing each other of hijacking their campaigns. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Sy Mamabolo, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer for Electoral Operations at the IEC
The Commission for Gender Equality says the rewarding of bursaries to young women based on them being virgins violates their Constitutional right to equality, dignity and privacy. The commission has released the finding of its investigation into the so-called maiden bursaries that the Uthukela District Municipality in KwaZulu Natal hands out. As part of their agreement, the maidens have to be subjected to virginity testing after every holiday. In January, 16 young women from the province received bursaries to study at a tertiary institution. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Commission for Gender Equality's commissioner Wallace Mgoqi.
On the Forum@8 this morning, they wrapped up the series on the 40th anniversary of the June 16 Soweto uprisings by focusing on the role played by Kgotso Seatlholo. He led the Soweto Student Representative Council in Exile. This song was sung in 1976 by JUMA MRISHO of Urafiki Jazz Band of Tanzania after the students massacre in Soweto. Amlive's Sakina Kamwendo provided the translation and then spoke to Steve Malesela Lebelo, a historian and author, who's also former head of SAYCO in Lesotho. Meanwhile, Equal Education is convening a national teaching and learning summit as part of their commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Students Uprising. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Equal Education's General Secretary Tshepo Motsepe
Africa Rising was once the phrase used to describe the pace of growth and development on the African continent. But is that narrative changing from a continent Rising to one that's tilting? That phrase comes from Mark Bohlund Bloomberg's Intelligence unit in London spoke to Dhashen Moodley about this...
Defence counsel Barry Roux has told the High Court in Pretoria that it should deviate from the minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment for convicted murderer, Oscar Pistorius. Roux has argued that neither the Supreme Court of Appeal or the trial court found he had intended to kill Reeva Steenkamp. He's submitted that Pistorius was not driven by evil intent when he fired shots at a perceived intruder - killing Steenkamp. Last year, the Supreme Court of appeal overturned Pistorius's culpable homicide conviction finding him guilty of murder. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Ulrich Roux who is a Director at DBK Attorneys
The events of June 16 1976 turned Tsietsi Mashinini into a hero for millions of South Africans and an enemy of the apartheid state. Together with other student leaders, Mashinini planned a peaceful protest against Bantu education but were met with guns by the apartheid police who killed scores of unarmed learners. Mashinini died under strange circumstances in Conakry, Guinea on 5 July 1990, after being hospitalised with multiple injuries, apparently sustained during an attack. Former Azanian People Organisation AZAPO, President, Professor Itumeleng Mosala says that one of Mashinini's admirers was his compatriot Miriam Makeba who offered Mashinini a place to stay in her home in Conakry before his untimely death...
Violent protests make headline news in South Africa but does anyone know how many have occurred? During a parliamentary session, the UDM's Mncedisi Lutando Wellington Filtane relied on a claim that there are 30 protests recorded in South Africa each day. His question to the President in the National Assembly last month prompted an Africa Check investigation to answer the question: Are there 30 protests a day in South Africa? Africa Check's Head of Health and Data Unit, Vinayak Bhardwaj spoke to us about this claim...
A team of 300 South African firefighters striking in Canada for fair pay will be returning home. Working on Fire - the NGO that trains firefighters had dispatched the team to fight a massive wildfire in northern Alberta near Fort McMurray nearly two weeks ago which forced the evacuation of 90-thousand people. Working on Fire CEO Johan Heine and National spokesperson for Working on Fire Linton van Rensburg explained...
The 10th meeting of the National Municipal Managers Forum is a platform to share innovations and good practices about how to run cities. Today, municipal managers are reflecting on the past 15 years, preparing for the upcoming Municipal Elections, and facilitating peer learning. Dhashen Moodley speaks to SA Local Government Association (SALGA) CEO, Xolile George...
South Africans are owed 30 billion rand in unclaimed benefits. Mineral Resources Deputy Minister Godfrey Oliphant says they are tracking down 103-thousand former mine-workers who are owed more than a billion rand in unclaimed benefits. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Deputy Minister of Minerals and Resources Godfrey Oliphant...
At nearly 15 billion rand, irregular expenditure by municipalities in South Africa has more than doubled in the last five years. Currently 92 percent of them are experiencing financial problems. 26 percent of them are barely keeping their heads above water. The North West, was one of the main contributing provinces to the increase in irregular expenditure. The province also failed yet again to produce a single municipality with a clean audit. The Auditor General Kimi Makwetu attributes it a continued non compliance with supply chain management legislation. Dhashen Moodley spoke to North West MEC of Finance Wendy Nelson......
At nearly 15 billion rand, irregular expenditure by municipalities in South Africa has more than doubled in the last five years. Currently 92 percent of them are experiencing financial problems. 26 percent of them are barely keeping their heads above water. Dhashen Moodley spoke to the North West Premier, Supra Mahumapelo and Corruption Watch's Stakeholder Manager Ronald Menoe...
One of South Africa's most dangerous roads, the Moloto Road which runs north of Pretoria and passes through three provinces is set to be upgraded to accommodate existing and future traffic. And in other transport related matters: "Adapt or Die" this is the case for many metered taxi operators in and around Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. This as tensions between Uber transport operators and metered taxi drivers continue to escalate- Dhashen Moodley speaks to Department of Transport spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi
There seems to be no amicable solution to bring stability at the troubled Mogalakwena local municipality in Mokopone outside Polokwane in Limpopo. The Mogalakwena Municipality has been plagued by political, administrative and court battles for the past four years. Operations at the municipality have been brought to a halt several times in the past four years as result of the conflict. On the panel was: ANC's Parks Sebetjane, DA's Solly Malatsi, the EFF's Jossey Buthane, UCDP 's Mpowele Swathe and COPE's Erik Mohlapamaswi , UDM's Matlatso Selomo..
The Centre of Dynamic Market at the Gordon Institute of Business Science has just released its Bi-annual Market Index (DMI) for the year 2016. The index is a tool that measures the competitive performance of countries through their institutions. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Director of the Centre of Dynamic Markets at GIBS, Professor Lyal White...
The South African government is facing immense pressure to endorse Rhino horn trade ahead of the 17th Conference of CITES. It costs private rhino owners around a 100 thousand to protect rhinos from poachers. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Limpopo Rhino Security Group Ambassador, Andries Potgieter.....
A Lesotho civil organisation, the Free Movement of Basotho, has once again called for a merger of the Mountain Kingdom with South Africa. The Lesotho nationals residing or working in South Africa are complaining about the stressing paperwork they have to complete just to work and commute between the two countries. Neo Makwiting filed this report Dhashen Moodley spoke to Home Affairs Spokesperson Mayihlome Tshwete...
A list is at the centre of a row between the South African Broadcasting Corporation and the Democratic Alliance. The DA says it will lay a formal complaint with the the Independent Communications Authority (ICASA), accusing the SABC of delaying its election campaign by refusing to broadcast the party's election advertisements. On AM LIVE this morning, SABC Spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago told the DA's leader Mmusi Maimane that they are waiting for a list from ICASA and the IEC before allocating time slots to parties. Dhashen Moodley speaks to William Bird, Director of non profit organisation Media Monitoring Africa....
The ANC is busy with appeals meetings as it seeks to clear its local government elections candidates list. The party hand an election list conference over the weekend in Irene on the outskirts of Pretoria. Factional battles have led to violent clashes and even political killings, as members squabble over who should make it to the final list. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Senior Politics reporter, Tshepo Ikaneng and Political Analyst Ongama Mtika...
MTN has become the biggest wireless operator on the continent by pushing into markets that few rivals would touch. From Syria to Afghanistan to South Sudan, MTN's aggressive strategy has helped it grow its customer base to 229 million subscribers. But MTN shareholders are calling for new leadership with a different approach. Bongi Gwala spoke to Business Editor for sub-Saharan Africa at Bloomberg News, John Bowker...
The Department of Basic Education is currently briefing the parliamentary portfolio committee on Education on the findings of the "Jobs for Cash" report. The report has found that teacher posts are being sold and teacher unions have been implicated. Meanwhile, SADTU has come out strongly against the report - calling it baseless. The union says since January it has written, no less than three times, to the minister and the ministerial task team requesting that they be provided with "factual evidence". Bongi Gwala spoke SADTU's Deputy General Secretary, Nkosana Dolopi...
Should insurance companies be allowed to deduct money for children living on welfare? This is at the centre of a Constitutional Court case today after the Social Security agency placed a ban on funeral policy deductions against childrens' grants. Earlier, SASSA's Dianne Dunkerly said unethical deductions from welfare recipients is a national phenomenon that's growing. Dhashen Moodley speaks to senior Constitutional Court reporter, Candice Nolan and Black Sash's Elroy Paulus...
The residents of Ennerdale, South of Johannesburg have blocked the roads on the area with rocks and burning tyres. This as the community embarked on a protest action over lack of housing. The residents claim government promised to build houses for them on that land two years ago and have threatened to forcefully occupy a piece of land in the area. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Ennerdale Community leader, Farouk Jardine....
SACP says political killings are on the rise in Kwa-Zulu Natal ahead of the 2016 local government elections. The Party is calling for Provincial Peace Monitoring Forum for the local government elections. Midday Live anchor speaks to SACP's Provincial Secretary, Themba Mthembu
80 young Africans from over 30 countries on the continent are launching the Africa 80 Book in Rosebank today. Cindy Pearl Maphumulo lead the team of people who worked on the book. She is a part of the World Economic Forum's youth wing, the Global Shapers Community, and has discussed issues pertaining to Africa's economy with the richest and most powerful on the continent. Dhashen Moodly chats to Cindy Pearl Maphumulo.
Today is the deadline for etolls defaulters. The 60 percent discount offer for Gauteng drivers to pay their outstanding historic e-toll accounts expires this afternoon. The offer initially expired two weeks ago but was extended until today by Transport Minister Dipuo Peters. The Automobile Association says its time for roads agency, SANRAL to answer questions about uptake of e-tolls in the province. Dhashen Moodley speaks to AA's spokesperson Layton Beard and SANRAL's spokesperson Vusi Mona...
The South African Institute of Race Relations says Gauteng and the Western Cape, dominate the South African economy with more than 50% of taxpayers registered in these two provinces. IRR analyst, Thuthukani Ndebele says the report clearly indicates that Gauteng and the Western Cape cross-subsidise the other seven provinces. In the report Ndebele suggests that a policy-making autonomy will help the other provinces to compete. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Institute for Race Relations analyst, Thuthukani Ndebele...
Africa's first openly gay rugby team has embarked on an intense recruitment drive to draw players from all sections of the country. Jozi Cats have set up shop in Johannesburg where they hope to build a nationally competitive team to take on the best in the country. Jozi Cats chairman Teveshan Kuni says that they are offering a safe space for rugby players from all walks of life...
Concern is growing over the safety and regulation of light air-crafts. This week only an aircraft crashed in Mosselbay, one in Midrand and the latest is the one in Pretoria East yesterday. Are these small aircrafts regulated? Dhashen Moodley speaks to Managing Director of Plane Talking, Linden Burns.
The judgement of Judge Phineas Mojapelo sets the stage for protracted proceedings in the largest class action suits in South Africa. Analysts have said it could cost the gold industry hundreds of millions of dollars to compensate more than 200-thousand mineworkers who contracted deadly lung diseases. . The defendants in the case are Harmony Gold, Gold Fields, AngloGold Ashanti, Sibanye Gold, African Rainbow Minerals and Anglo American which have formed the Occupational Lung Disease (OLD) Working Group. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Anele Yawa - General secretary of the TAC....
Public order police are clearing bushy areas near roads at Vuwani in Limpopo where protesters hid while they were pelting cars with stones. This was part of the violence that has seen the torching and vandalising of over 20 schools in the area. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Social Cohesion Advisor to Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha Dr Simon Nedohe...
According to Free Market Foundation South Africans are more days in the year working toward paying their taxes. The foundation says last year, taxpayers needed to work more than 5 extra weeks to pay for government expenditure in 2015 than they did 22 years ago. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Leon Louw, Executive director at the Free Market Foundation...
Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff is to face trial after the Senate voted to impeach and suspend her. Ms Rousseff is accused of illegally manipulating finances to hide a growing public deficit ahead of her re-election in 2014, which she denies. Senators voted to suspend her by 55 votes to 22 after an all-night session that lasted more than 20 hours. Vice-President Michel Temer will now assume the presidency while Ms Rousseff's trial takes place. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Political Scientist from the University of Pretoria, Roland Henhood.
Mogalakwena municipality in Mokopane has been unstable for more than three years, even political interventions don't seem to be yielding any results. Now more than 700 workers have downed tools as they demand the implementation of bench-marking of salaries. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Percy Nketsi, representative of the Mogalakwena Municipality workers...
Clashes have broken out between protesting Vaal University of Technology students and campus security at the institution's main campus in Vanderbijlpark Park on the Vaalrand. Classes have been suspended following violent protests and the destruction of property over the past two days. The students are protesting over poor security. Dhashen Moodley speaks to University's suspended SRC President, Troy Mathebula...
South Africa is on track for the worst year of service delivery protests on record. Today Municipal IQ released data on the number of service delivery protests against municipalities since the beginning of the year. Nearly half of the 70 protests recorded in 2016, were staged in the Eastern Cape and Gauteng. Many of these protests were in informal settlements and underdeveloped areas where service deliver remains a major challenge. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Municipal IQ Economist Karen Heese...
Solidarity Union says it wants the Government Employee Pension Fund to account for the unilateral changes it made to the calculation method used to determine resignation benefit of employees. The union says it will take the matter for review with the high court. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Solidarity Spokesperson Johan Kruger.......
State security minister David Mahlobo is leading a government delegation in Vuwani outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo to meet with community members. This is a continuing effort by government to normalise the situation in Vuwani and its surrounding villages. Protesters torched and vandalised 24 schools last week. Learning and teaching and business operations are still at a halt as the boycott of services is continuing. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the State Security Minister, David Mahlobo...
Despite South Africa's underdog performance in the global economy, it remains a world leader in carbon emissions. Currently South Africa is ranked among the world's top 12 largest carbon dioxide emitters largely due to a dependence on coal mining for energy. A network of communities affected by fossil fuels has come together to form Break-Free - a global movement to protest against climate crises and corruption in the mining industry. Dhashen Moodley speaks to 350 Africa Break Free Campaigner, Amir Bagheri....
Government and the private sector have decided to establish a 10-billion rand fund to help stimulate economic growth through the empowerment of small business operators. This was announced last night following a meeting chaired by president Jacob Zuma and the Deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa. The private sector has already pledged 1.5 billion rand to the fund. President Zuma has welcomed the new small business development co-investment fund. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu...
Government and the private sector have decided to establish a 10-billion rand fund to help stimulate economic growth through the empowerment of small business operators. This was announced last night following a meeting chaired by president Jacob Zuma and the Deputy president, Cyril Ramaphosa. The private sector has already pledged 1.5 billion rand to the fund. President Zuma has welcomed the new small business development co-investment fund. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the Minister of Small Business Development, Lindiwe Zulu...
Klebsiella is a bacteria that is particularly life threatening to the elderly and new born babies. It results in illnesses such as pneumonia, fatal septicaemia, urinary tract infections and skin infections. The Nelson Mandela School of Medicine's Professor Willem Sturm says we need to look beyond hygiene to stop the spread of Klebsiella. When the first antibiotics were introduced in the 1940's, they were hailed as wonderdrugs. Today, we're on the brink of losing them as more and more drugs are failing to treat illnesses. KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Sibongiseni Dhlomo has confirmed that at least ten babies have been infected with Klebsiella at the Mahatma Gandhi Hospital in Durban...
Government must stop criminalising Zama Zama's and protecting of large corporate miners who are not increasing their employment quotas. That's according to the mining and extractives co-ordinator at ActionAid South Africa Christopher Rutledge. He says government should be regulating artisinal mining to preserve the dignity of those people who choose to work rather than wait for state handouts. Dhashen Moodley speaks to mining and extractives co-ordinator at ActionAid South Africa Christopher Rutledge....
The North Gauteng High Court has set aside the decision to drop charges against President Jacob Zuma. In a detailed judgement, Judge Audrey Ledwaba found that there was no substance in the National Prosecuting Authority and the Presidency's submissions against the DA application for the decision to be reviewed. Dhashen Moodley speaks to, DA leader, Mmusi Maimane, ANC Spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa and gets legal commentary from, Director at BDK Attorneys- Litigation specialist, Ulrich Roux..
The North Gauteng High Court has set aside the decision to drop charges against President Jacob Zuma. In a detailed judgement, Judge Audrey Ledwaba found that there was no substance in the National Prosecuting Authority and the Presidency's submissions against the DA application for the decision to be reviewed. Dhashen Moodley speaks to, DA leader, Mmusi Maimane, ANC Spokesperson, Zizi Kodwa and gets legal commentary from, Director at BDK Attorneys- Litigation specialist, Ulrich Roux..
The Police Minister, Nathi Nhleko says the police play a huge role in sustaining and that maintenance of society and that as a department they are working towards devising strategies to reduce police killings. Nhleko said this during a dialogue on Human Rights and Policing hosted by the South African Human Rights Commission. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Commissioner at the South African Human Rights Commission, Dr Danny Titus...
More than fifty newly built RDP houses have been damaged in Villa Lisa near Boksburg in Ekurhuleni on Gauteng's East Rand. This after the residents embarked on a violent protest. Residents claim that their leaders are selling their houses to people who are not residing in the area. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the spokesperson for the Gauteng Human Settlements Department, Keith Khoza...
Grahamstown police spokesperson Mali Govender says that more students are coming forward to lay criminal charges against alleged sexual offenders from Rhodes University. This follows the release of the RU-Reference list which was circulated on social media two weeks ago. The list of alleged sex offenders led to week-long protests by students claiming management has failed to act to curb rape on campus. A group of alumni of Rhodes University have written an Open Letter, calling on council to start addressing the process students have to go through when reporting rape. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Kim Jurgenson and Rhodes University's Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sizwe Mabizela...
Lawyers and academics are calling on universities to teach customary law in the curriculum for law students. This arose at a seminar hosted by the University of KwaZulu-Natal's School of Law on the role, challenges and future of customary law in South Africa. Delegates were concerned that customary law is seen as inferior to common law which results in poor representation by legal practitioners who are not accustomed with the values and principles of customary law. Dhashen Moodley speaks, Professor Nomthandazo Ntlama from University of Kwa-Zulu Natal
The EFF says it will defend it's leader, Julius Malema on a treason charge laid by the ANC at the Hillbrow police station in Johannesburg. The ANC was responding to comments that Malema made during an interview with Television network Al Jazeera. Malema warned the ruling party that if it continued to respond violently to peaceful protests, his party would remove the current government - quote- 'through the barrel of a gun'. To Find out whether Malema can be charged with treason, Dhashen Moodley speaks to Ulrich Roux of BDK Attorneys...
The department of home affairs has denied allegations that Minister Malusi Gigaba influenced the VSF Global contract. Democratic Alliance Shadow Minister of Home Affairs, Haniff Hoosen, dropped a bombshell during the Home Affairs budget debate in Parliament on Friday, saying that a South African company, with Duduzane Zuma and Rajesh Gupta as directors, is linked to global visa application service company, VFS Global. Meanwhile, VFS Gloabal CEO, Jiten Vyas has also refuted the claims by the MP, citing that the said company Hoosen is reffering to is Islandsite 255 and that is has no links with VFS Global group whatsoever. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Democratic Alliance Shadow Minister of Home Affairs, Haniff Hoosen...
President Jacob Zuma says the arms deal commission found no improper influence in the contracting for the procurement of the equipment. He says the allegations of corruption and fraud found no supporting evidence in what was put before the commission. Dhashen Moodley speaks to DA Executive Member and Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille in Cape Town and arms deal critic Hennie van Vuuren who co-authored the 2011 book, The Devil in the Detail - How the Arms Deal Changed Everything...
How much progress has South Africa made since 1994? Afrobarometer has revealed that more than half of all South Africans have a negative perception of the economy. The survey interviewed more than two thousand adults in August and September last year. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Afrobarometer's spokesperson for Southern Africa, Sibusiso Nkomo
South Africa is not investing enough in science, technology and innovation, which puts it at risk of being surpassed by countries with less capacity and knowledge. Minister Naledi Pandor delivered this scathing rebuke during her budget speech in parliament yesterday. The Department's budget for this year is 7-point-4 billion rand - which is the same as it was for last year....
Students at Rhodes University turned to social media to expose the actions of police during their protest this morning. In various posts on facebook and twitter, students claimed that police fired rubber bullets, stun grenades and pepper spray. The protests - under the hashtag RUReferenceList - were sparked by concerns that the university protects the perpetrators of rape instead of victims. Earlier, Rhodes University spokesperson Catherine Deiner said that victims of sex crimes must report them. Editor of Rhode's University's student run newspaper - Mitchell Parker confirmed that police fired at protestors who refused to disperse and dismantle barricades...
A strike by COMAIR ground staff continues across the country. Striking workers downed tools last week, Wednesday demanding a 30 per cent salary increase over the next three years. Comair Airways implemented a lock-out against the strikers yesterday. Dhashen Moodley speaks to UASA's Operations manager, Jannem Goussard...
Transport Minister, Dipuo Peters, has ordered the Road Traffic Management Corporation to begin probing the cause of the crash. This after a bus ferrying ANC members who were returning to Gauteng after they attended the ruling party's 2016 Election Manifesto launch in Port Elizabeth, overturned in the Free State killing 11-ANC volunteers. Meanwhile, the City of Ekurhuleni has established a joint operation centre to assist the families of the 11 ANC volunteers who died in a bus crash in the Free State at the weekend. Dhashen Moodley speaks to ANC Ekurhuleni Region's Chairperson, Mzwandile Masina...
Twelve suspects have been arrested following a night of stone-throwing and looting of spaza shops in the Dunoon area near Milnerton. Cape Town Metro police say they are maintaining a strong presence in the area. A group of residents is believed to be demanding the delivery of basic services such as housing. Metro police director, Robbie Roberts, says a reinforcement of officers has been brought in from the Boland area. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Mayoral Committee member for Human Settlements Benedicta van Minnen and Western Cape traffic chief Kenny Africa...
The ANC says its expecting over a hundred thousand supporters to descend on the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth tomorrow for the launch of its local government manifesto. The official program will start at 10 am. ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe says the party is implementing the constitutional court judgement that found the President had breached the constitution. Dhashen Moodley speaks to political reporter & Ongama Mtimka - He's lectures political journalism at the Nelson Mandela Metro University and is a former spokesperson for the municipality...
The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) over the past three days hosted a conference to look at the taxation in the extraction industry. The conference was held under the theme : "Assessing the value of Extractives: How can we assess the outflow from Africa?" Its aim was to provide an overview of the challenges facing African tax systems in cross-border exports in the extractive industry in Africa. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the Head of Research at, the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF), Dr Nara Monkam....
The Democratic Alliance went shopping this morning to uncover the cost of basic foodstuffs in a family of five who live on social welfare. The Democratic Alliance is currently briefing the media on the social consequences of rising food prices & below-inflation social grant increases. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the DA's shadow minister of agriculture, forestry and fisheries, Annette Steyn...
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed the state's bid for leave to appeal Janusz Walus' parole. Justice Minister Masutha had approached the court arguing that it erred in its judgment when it ruled that SACP leader Chris Hani's killer should be granted parole. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Justice Department Spokesperson Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga and SACP National Spokesperson Alex Mashilo
About 800 South African National Defence Force soldiers are reportedly stranded in Darfur Sudan. The soldiers have been waiting for two weeks for their flight back home since the closure of their peace mission. Dhashen Moodley speaks to South African National Defence Force's Brigadier-General Xolani Mabanga.....
The situation is calm at Orange Farm, South of Johannesburg this follows protests in the area since Monday. The protesters are saying their local ANC councillor is enriching himself at their expense. In a telephonic conversation between the councillor, Simon Motha and one of the residents, talking about a meeting they were supposed to have had with the councillor and he failed to pitch. In the exchange the Motha tells the resident that he didn't attend the meeting as they've already had one and that the community should continue calling for meetings without him being present as now they've appointed themselves as the leaders of the commmunity. Dhashen Moodley speaks to ene of the residents, Thapelo Moselenyane...
On Friday- the 8th of April, Oakbay Investments's Ceo Nazeem Howa released a statement informing Oakbay employees of the decision by the Gupta family to step down from all executive and non-executive positions. Citing that is the family's hope to end the campaign against Oakbay and to save jobs. However, Dr Azar Jammine who is a Chief Economist at Econometrix says this is not the only reason the family is stepping down. Krivani Pillay speaks to Dr Azar Jammine...
Eskom has reached agreement with three local municipalitie defaulting on their payments in Mpumalanga. In a statement the power utility said that they are still in talks with other four municipalities in the province. Last year, Eskom had announced its plans to cut off bulk electricity supply to the top 20 defaulting municipalities across the country. Krivani Pillay speaks to Eskom spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs minister, Des Van Rooyen says the government is concerned about the volatile situation continuing in Vuwani outside Thohoyandou. Van Rooyen who spoke to the SABC in Thohoyandou met with traditional leaders and representatives of community structures in Vuwani in a bid to resolve the stalemate. Residents who are against the inclusion of their area into the newly proposed municipality declared Vuwani and its surroundings a no-go area for IEC officials during voter registration. They started a boycott this morning which has affected schools, businesses and other services. Our reporter Witness Tiva filed this report and Dhashen Moodley spoke to Independent Electoral Commission's Deputy Chairperson, Terry Tselane and World Economic Forum Global Shaper, Craig Wing...
Tomorrow local and international companies will hand over R9 million to the Limpopo Rhino Security Group that will be invested in world-class wireless technology to assist the group with keeping their rhino safe. It costs private rhino owners up to R100 000 per month to ensure the safety and security of their rhino. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Limpopo Rhino Security Group Ambassador, Andries Potgieter.....
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)has launched a second fundraising initiative in partnership with SABC Foundation, and Vodacom Foundation. The campaign seeks to raise more funding that will be directed to assisting financially deserving students at institutions of high learning. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Executive Director of NSFAS Msulwa Daca...
Metrorail has been granted an interdict to avert a train strike led by the SA Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) from going ahead.Metrorail's regional manager Richard Walker says Legal recourse was taken to prevent public transport in the Western Cape from being impacted.Satawu is demanding permanent employment for fixed-term contract workers, and an end to outsourcing. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Metrorail's regional manager in Cape Town Richard Walker...
The long-awaited xenophobia report, which a special reference group has compiled, has been released in Durban today. The reference group on migration and community integration was commissioned by the KwaZulu-Natal government. The group led by Former U.N. high commissioner for human rights, judge Navi Pillay also investigated threats to social cohesion. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Former U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Judge Navi Pillay.......
The High Court in Johannesburg has ruled in their favour of residents of the Slovo Park informal settlement, south of Johannesburg. They have won a 20-year battle with the City of Johannesburg to compel it to upgrade their area. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa (SERI)'s Director Nomzamo Zondo ..
According to a report by the South African Institute for Race Relations, the economic growth forecasts of 2-point-8 per cent in 2018 set by the national treasury may be on the high side. And that they may be a considerable degree of risk that deficit and debt targets set out in the recent budget will not be achieved. Dhashen Moodley speaks to an Economist at South African Institute for Race Relations, Ian Cruickshanks...
Panama- the tiny country of 3 million people has become the centre of a scandal today. A confidential leak of documents has shown how a major Panamanian law firm helped clients around the world, including South Africa, launder money, dodge sanctions, and evade tax. The Panama Papers are eleven million confidential documents - or more than 2 terrabytes of information - from a Panamanian law firm that has revealed the extent to which the world's rich and powerful use tax havens to hide their wealth. The firm, called Mossack Fonseca, says it has operated beyond reproach for 40 years and have never been accused or charged with criminal wrong-doing. Richard Bilton filed the report and Dhashen Moodley speaks to Editor of BizNews, financial writer and broadcaster, Alec Hogg and Economic Justice Manager at Oxfam Southern Africa is Ayabonga Cawe...
President Jacob Zuma's eldest son believes there are many more business people with deeper pockets than the Gupta's influencing ANC leaders. Edward Zuma called for a broadening of an ANC investigation to include other senior ANC members. He named the "Stellenbosch Masters" of being behind a plot against his father. In this interview with our deputy political editor Mahlatse Gallens, Edward says the Zuma family never discuss government or political issues...
Midday Live broadcast on the South African Human Rights Commission's conference on Racism, which challenged the country to a debate on the issue. The conference which hosted Former President Thabo Mbeki, celebrated its 20 years with discussions on the different spheres of racism.
Some economists say South Africa is likely to be downgraded next week when ratings agency Moody's visits the country to decide on its sovereign credit rating. This comes after the agency said it had placed South Africa's long and short term ratings on review for a possible downgrade. Bongi Gwala speaks to Chief Economist at Pan African Investments and Research Services, Dr Iraj Abedian...
Students and parents of the Port Elizabeth Northern Areas have gathered at a local stadium to chart a way forward on the issue of schools overcrowding. The parents are demanding that a teacher should only have 30 learners in a class. One of the concerned parents Marlon Daniels says the department has been dragging it's feet to deliver on their promises... Bongi Gwala speaks to one of the concerned parents Marlon Daniels...
The statement from the ANC says that "Since joining the administrative corps of the ANC, Comrade Keith has been an invaluable part of the Department of Information and Publicity and the ANC at large, selflessly serving the movement and for this we thank him. We are confident he will not be lost to the ANC communications machinery and we wish him nothing but the very best," Dhashen Moodley speaks to former ANC's Communications manager, Keith Khoza...
Earlier this year disgruntled parents in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth went on rampage, burnt tyres and blockaded roads in protest for afrikaans teachers and more classrooms. No schooling took place until their demands were met by the department of education. Midday day live visited the area, but let's find out what happened since then. Dhashen Moodley speaks to concerned parents Marlon Daniels and department of education spokesperson Loyiso Pulumani...
Barclays in London has announced their intention to simplify their business. Over the next two to three years, the British lender will sell its 62 percent stake in Barclays Africa Group. It was created by combining South Africa's Absa Bank and Barclays' African operations. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Bloomberg News Editor Vernon Wessels...
The DA says its review application to set aside the National Prosecuting Authority's dropping of charges against President Jacob Zuma, is more relevant now than ever before. The North Gauteng High court will hear the DA's application tomorrow. Steven Kirker speaks to the DA's Federal Executive chairperson, James Selfe
Moody's is one of the three main ratings agencies that will determine whether the Finance Minister's budget was enough to stave off further investment ratings downgrades for South Africa. Ratings agency Moody's says the budget speech did not identify specific revenue measures to achieve smaller deficits. Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan said in yesterday's* budget that government aimed to reduce its budget deficit to 3.2 percent of GDP in the next fiscal year from the current 3.9 percent by tightening spending. Moody's senior vice president Kristin Lindow has pointed out that Gordhan promised to cut a large public sector wage bill, but did not give specific details. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Economist Gina Schoeman from Citigroup...
How can you help root out corruption in South Africa? In a speech focussed on promoting inclusive economic growth, the Finance Minister has come out strongly against wasteful expenditure, corruption, bailing out state-owned enterprises and tax dodgers. He says government expects to save 25-billion rand over the next three years. Dhashen Moodley speaks to executive director of Corruption Watch, David Lewis...
Students at the North West University's Mafikeng campus are packing for their homes after it was closed due to violence. Student protesters reportedly burnt school buildings as they demanded the re-instatement of their student leadership. Dhashen Moodley speaks to University Spokesperson, Koos Degenaar......
Reassuring investors is a critical hurdle for Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan today. He delivers the 2016 budget in Parliament at 2pm this afternoon. But what should be his priorities? South Africans have their say: a banking economist, a leader of black business, a 53 year old mother holding down 3 jobs and an economics student....
During the State of the Nation Address Debate, the Minister for Economic Development, Ebrahim Patel announced government's intentions to impose criminal sanctions for collusion and price-fixing. Mid-last year there were reports of banks allegedly fixing the price of the rand and following the 2010-Soccer World Cup the Competition Commission also investigated collusion among the big-five construction companies. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Daryl Dingley, Partner at Webber Wentzel's Competition practice...
Train drivers operating between Pretoria to Johannesburg have failed to report for duty for fear of being assaulted. This follows repeated attacks on Metrorail train drivers by commuters frustrated over train service challenges, including late arrival of trains. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Gauteng Metrorail Spokesperson, Lillian Mofokeng...
Gauteng drivers have reacted angrily to the looming E-toll tariff increases. The motorists will have to cough-up much more as e-tolls are set to increase by almost 5% from March 2016. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the Spokesperson for the department of transport, Ishmael Mnisi and OUTA Chairperson Wayne Duvenhage...
The Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe says cabinet has decided to table a legislative amendment to the Taxation Laws Amendment Act as a matter of urgency to postpone the commencement date from 1 March 2016 to 1 March 2018 to allow for further consultations with all key stakeholders. This as cabinet briefs media on the outcomes of its meeting. Dhashen Moodley speaks to the President of COSATU Sdumo Dlamini
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) has breached the upper target band of the Reserve Bank and is now at six-point-two per cent, up from the five-point-two per cent seen in December. Figures that Statistics South Africa has released show that that Consumer Price Index data edged higher as prices of goods continue to rise and the rand weakens further. Dhashen Moodley speaks to economics reporter, Dimakatso Leshoro and economist at FNB, Mamello Matikinca
The student funding body, NSFAS says it knows nothing about an SMS which allegedly led a Durban University of Technology student to commit suicide. Students at the DUT embarked on a protest march following the death of the student at residence last Friday. SRC President - S'phephelo Mthembu said the deceased received an SMS message saying that he had not qualified for funding at the university shortly before his death. NSFAS spokesperson, Kagiso Mamabolo says the student was allocated funding.....
The Independent Electoral Commission has officially handed over the Atlas of the 2014 General Election to political parties represented in Parliament. It spells out voting patterns according to political party, gender, age and various other demographics. The information can be used to help political parties in their campaigns. Our reporter Mercedes Besent attended the briefing...
DA MP Glynnis Breytenbacht and her former lawyer have been granted bail of 10 thousand rand each after appearing at the Pretoria District Court.They are being charged for obstruction and defeating the ends of justice.The case has been postponed to the 16 of March. Breytenbacht says she is innocent ...
SC.Jeremy Gauntlet says according to international law a sitting President cannot be arrested or taken to court. Gauntlett was defending South African government's decision not to arrest the Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir last year when he was attending the AU summit. the argument are being heard at Supreme Court of Appeal .Here is excerpt of his argument...
Parliament says its "all system go" for the State of the Nation Address tonight. Secretary to Parliament Gengezi Mgidlana says two rehearsals have been completed, and all the security checks have been put in place to ensure that the formalities of tonight run smoothly. Any Members of Parliament who are removed due to disorderly behaviour may not be able to take part in the State of the Nation debate next week. This is in terms of new rules adopted last year. Dhashen Moodley asked parliamentary reporter Zalene Merrington about the heightened security...
Sectors and NGOs that depend on the mining industry are also at the Mining Indaba to voice out their successes and challenges they are faced with current economic climate. One such grouping is the Coal Transporters Forum which represents about 80% of companies that transport coal for Eskom. You'll remember in 2009- the power utility made a change in strategy in transporting coal from the mines to the power stations, which resulted in reduction of coal being delivered to their power stations. Almost seven years later- how is this industry holding up. Dhashen Moodley speaks to CEO of Petralux and member of the coal transporters Forum, Mathibe Mohloele...
Threatening SMS messages sent by debt collectors working for Sanral under the guise of the 'Sanral Violations Centre' in Cape Town appear to be in contravention of the Debt Collectors Code of Conduct. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (outa), formerly known as the Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance is highlighting this possibility in a statement this morning, which pointed out that it's illegal to threaten motorists to pay outstanding fees via SMS. Jacques Steenkamp reports...
Matriculants have reportedly gone back to school in the northern areas of Port Elizabeth. Parents have in recent weeks shut down schools in the area as they demanded infrastructure and teachers for the schools in the areas. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Chairperson of the Northern Areas Schools Forum, Richard Draai......
The Economic Freedom fighters (EFF) had until 12-noon yesterday to withdraw its threats made against journalists at Gupta-owned media; ANN7 and The New Age that they were not welcome at their party event and that they could not guarantee their safety. EFF was issued with an ultimatum to reverse its violent threats or face action. Dhashen Moodley speaks to EFF Spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi...
The non-governmental watchdog organisation, Corruption Watch, says it is not backing anyone to replace Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. Madonsela will end her tenure of office this year. The organisation earlier launched its Bua Mzanzi or Speak South Africa campaign which seeks to get people involved in the process of appointing a new Public Protector. The NGO believes that the position will be highly-contested this time around given the controversy Madonsela has generated. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Corruption Watch's Executive Director, David Lewis...
Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane opened the 2016 Mining Indaba in Cape Town today. He told delegates "There is an ebb and flow to life. There are highs and lows. There are sunny days and gray days, summers and winters. The mining industry is in its winter season, a season which some have characterised as a crisis." Dhashen Moodley speaks to reporter, Tshepo Mongoai and John Capel, executive director of the Bench Marks Foundation.
Cosatu and some of its affiliates are picketing outside the Nedlac offices over the new tax amendment act. Our Dhashen Moodley spoke to both COSATU and NEDLAC...
Two of the Five unaccounted mine workers trapped at the Lily Gold Mine near Barberton, have been brought to safety. We spoke to Medical manager at Hi-Tech Ambulance Service Jacques Ainslie....
The Democratic Alliance says they will still proceed with presenting their Heads of Argument before the Constitutional Court on the 09th of February 2016. This in light of the President Jacob Zuma proposing an out-of-court settlement on the Nkandla saga. DA Leader Mmusi Maimane says they will argue that President Zuma's failure to engage rationally with the Public Protector's findings and remedial action pertaining to him was manifestly irrational, illegal and unconstitutional. President Jazob Zuma's lawyer Michael Hulley & DA's Shadow Minister of Justice, Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach...
The second day of a two day National Minimum Wage Symposium is underway at Wits University in Johannesburg. From Argentina, Malaysia and the UK, international and local experts are in favour of introducing a minimum wage in South Africa as a tool to reduce poverty and inequality. Wits University's Gilad Isaacs presented research on "What happens when workers in South African get a larger slice of the pie?" Dhashen Moodley speaks to Wits University's Gilad Isaacs
The Forum for Public Dialogue says there are new emerging voter trends in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. The Forum has just released a report that details how the voter patterns have changed over the years. Dhashen Moodley talks to Chairman of the Forum for Public Dialogue, Moeletsi Mbeki.......
With the prices of commodities forecasted to drop due to oversupply, South Africa stands to fill the pinch the most. However, according to the World Bank's report on South Africa's economic outlook things could change for the better if government comes up with policies that promote greater domestic competition and improve the regulatory environment. Bongi Gwala speaks to Catriona Purfield, Program Leader at the World Bank South Africa..
A multi-disciplinary task team has been established to deal with gang-related violence in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. Hawks head, Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza says the task team includes detectives, crime intelligence officers,Tactical Responce Team and Hawks members from East London. Bongi Gwala speaks to Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi.
The South African economy finds itself in a desperate situation. Growth rates are falling, interest rates are rising and a crippling drought is forcing food prices higher in Africa's most advanced economy. Is there a way to turnaround the situation for leaders? Allen Berkowitz, is an author and turnaround specialist who advises global companies on Behavioural Economics. It's a branch of economics that suggests humans make emotional and not rational decisions. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Allen Berkowitz, who is an author and turnaround specialist who advises global companies on Behavioural Economics....
The High Court in Johannesburg has ruled in favour of fired SA Idols Judge Gareth Cliff in his case against Mnet. The High Court has ordered the immediate re-instatement of Cliff to his previous role as Idols judge. Cliff took M-Net to court after the channel sacked him earlier this month for his Twitter comment supposedly supporting KZN woman, Penny Sparrow's racist remarks. Here is an extract of Judge Caroline Nicholls' judgement and Gareth Cliff reacting to the ruling.
Former Ivory Coast President Laurent Gbagbo is today appearing at the International Criminal Court on charges of crime against humanity. The charges stem from the violence that engulfed Ivory Coast after the much debated 2010 elections. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Europe Correspondent Jack Parrock.....
Listen to Dhashen Moodley and Strategic Management, Lecturer at Gordon Institute of Business Science- Matthew Birtch: talk about World Economic Forum's 4th Industrial revolution, Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan versus institutions such as SARS and Interest rate rise.
Energy regulator NERSA is currently holding public hearings across the country to get feedback on a possible tariff hike. Power Utility Eskom has asked the regulator to authorise the increase so that it can recoup over 20 billion rand from customers this year. This includes more than 11 billion rand in lost revenue and a further 8 billion rand it spent on diesel. Dhashen Moodley speaks to NERSA's spokesperson Charles Hlebela...
Commuters were left stranded in Soshanguve in the early hours this morning as taxi drivers went on strike. The drivers reportedly blockaded roads as a show of their dissatisfaction with the taxi association.Dhashen Moodley speaks to Chairman of the Soshanguve Taxi Owners Association, McKeed Mogale......
Jakkie Celliers is the chairperson of the Institute of Security Studies talking about the crisis in Burundi on AM Live this morning. The United Nations estimates that 439 people have died and more than 200-thousand people forced to flee the country since President Pierre Nkurinziza ran for a third term. Burundi is on the brink of a civil war following July's elections. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Burundi expert and senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch Carina Tertsakian...
Former Ivory Coast president Laurent Gbagbo will appear at the International Criminal Court (ICC) tomorrow. Gbagbo is facing charges of murder, rape, other inhumane acts and persecution committed during post-election violence in 2010-2011. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Chairman of the Ivorian Popular Front in South Africa Emeziz Ezuzwa...
A number of high schools in Port Elizabeth's Northern Areas remain closed despite the department of education sending out a memo to all schools to be operational from today. After a meeting last night, parents have resolved to continue keeping their children away from school until the department addresses their concerns. The parents are protesting over teacher shortages, school security, infrastructure and inadequate resources for children with special needs. Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Loyiso Pulumani...
The uThukela Municipality is offering 113-students bursaries to study at tertiary institutions, sixteen of those will be given to virgins. This as part of a programme called Maiden's Bursary Awards. Mayor of Uthukela Municipality, Dudu Mazibuko...
The top three risks for businesses in South Africa are cyber incidents, Business Interruption and changes in legislation and regulation. This is according to the Allianz Risk Barometer 2016 which surveyed over 800 risk managers and insurance experts from more than 40 countires. Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty Africa, CEO Delphine Maidou...
Parents and learners in the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth are staging a protest outside the department of education's offices. ANC Member of the provincial legislature Christian Martin has opened a police case against the department of education for inaction in solving the regions education crisis. Christian Martin...
A march to end outsourcing at higher learning institutions is underway at Tshwane university of technology. Workers have occupied the main building. Meanwhile University of South Africa (UNISA) has agreed to insource its contracted staff members. The #OutsourcingMustFall movement says they are intensifying their protest actions until all higher learning institutions are on board. For more we are joined on the line by spokesperson for the #OutsourcingMustFall - Austin Mofye…
South Africans are told that education is the key to lifting themselves out of poverty - but children are on the streets of Port Elizabeth today. Over fifty schools are just empty shells, wrapped in barbed wire, and surrounded by gangs, drugs, unemployment, alcoholism and teenage pregnancy in a community with endless hope. Last year, the matric results bore witness to the crisis. The pass rate dropped for the second consecutive year and remains the lowest in the country at under 60%. On this SAfm Special Broadcast at Sanctor High School in Port Elizabeth, we are joined by a panel of guests to describe the education crisis affecting the area, explain why it persists, and what's being done to solve them...
South African Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago says a quarter of a percent increase in interest rates is not a small increase. Speaking from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Kganyago dealt with the bank's tightening cycle, inflation concerns surrounding the rand and the risk of a recession. Dhashen Moodley spoke with Lecturer at Gibbs, Matthew Birtch and Bloomberg's Jonathan Ferro. He began by asking about Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan....
University of Pretoria workers are set to receive a minimum wage of R10 000 in 2018 as part of the agreement with management. Workers and Socialist Party says they have reached an agreement with university on the phasing out of outsourcing. Leader of the Workers and Socialist Party Mametlwe Sebei...
The DA is claiming that Eskom paid out more than R70-million in bonuses to its executives since load shedding started 8-years ago. The party was expected to submit a petition to the power utility's headquarters in Sunninghill north of Johannesburg. This comes as the energy regulator - NERSA's - public hearings into Eskom's 17 percent electricity tariff hike's application move to Port Elizabeth today. Eskom's Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe...
A massive banner in Cape Town was hard to ignore for residents of the city. It hung over 6 floors of the OverBeek building with the words Zuma Must Fall. At the weekend, ANC members tore down the banner while the project manager at Overbeek Building watched on. The City of Cape Town says that 'Independent Outdoor Media' is responsible for the banner. Manager of Dispute Resolution at the Advertising Standards Authority, Leon Grobler...
Azanian People's Liberation Army (Apla) cadre Kenny Motsamai will not be released today. There is a deadlock between parole officers at Correctional services and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) on the conditions for his release. Motsamai who is in the Boksburg Prison on Gauteng's East Rand, was sentenced to 25 years for his part of an APLA mission to rob a suppermarket in Rustenburg in 1989. PAC Secretary General, Marius Moloto...
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it plans to fund 405 000 students this year, where close to R10 billion will be spent to assist students in 2016. As part of this amount, R1.4 billion will be made available upfront for universities to help qualifying students who cannot afford registration fees. Yet, the allocation of funds to the right people is an area of concern. NSFAS Spokesperson, Kagisho Mamabolo talks about how the scheme will go about allocating these funds to student that are really in need...
The global inequality crisis is reaching new extremes. In simple terms, the rich are getting richer and the poor much poorer. The latest report on by Oxfam shows that the richest 62 people in the world have the same wealth as 3-and-a-half billion people - or half the world's population. The richest 1% now have more wealth than the rest of the world combined. Oxfam's Executive Director Winnie Byanyima...
The Outsourcing Must Fall Committee says its demanding a ten thousand rands minimum wage for outsourced employees across the board. The committee has threatened to shut down universities in Pretoria should its demands not be met by the end of the week. Labour Lawyer and Practicing Attorney Michael Bagraim discusses the feasability of this demand...
Wits University has obtained an interim court interdict barring students from disrupting operations on campus. This after a group of students disrupted registration at the Braamfontein campus on Monday. Security has since been beefed up. Earlier today, a group of students clashed with security guards as they tried force their way inside the Senate Hall. Wits Spokesperson Shirona Patel...
The Kruger National Park authorities have sent condolences to the family and colleagues of a field ranger who lost his life while on duty in the park. The ranger was accidentally shot and killed by his colleague in the Malalane section while fighting off a charging buffalo. Head Of Department Public Relations at the Kruger National Park, William Mabasa
Students aligned to the Fees Must Fall demonstrations in Cape Town have described the deployment of additional security officials to universities as intimidating. Security has been visibly beefed up on some campuses, amid the writing of deferred exams and ahead of the 2016 registration process. Meanwhile the main campus of UNISA in Pretoria is still closed as workers and students continue to protest. SASCO and South African Students Union President Thabo Moloja...
The DA says it has come up with some measures to help alleviate the food and drought crisis in the country. The DA's Shadow Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries says the drought has had a disasterous impact on the agricultural sector. DA Shadow Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Annette Steyn...
Repeated warnings about the new tax legislation are inaccurate. That's according to Beatrie Gouws, an associate director at auditing, tax and advisory firm KPMG. The 2015 Tax Laws Amendment Act and the Tax Administration Laws Amendment Act was signed into law by President Jacob Zuma yesterday. It comes into effect on the 1st of March this year. Gouws says the warning that it will limit workers or retirees from withdrawing all their retirement pensions, is incorrect..
The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education says it will provide support to struggling schools across the country. Thousands of learners are back at school as they look forward to a hopefully improved academic year that is 2016. Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Nomalungelo Gina...
The #FeesMust Fall movement is well underway at some universities with student leaders holding fast to their call for free education for all but the Department of Higher Education has called on protesting students to allow university operations to resume as normal. They say Senior Economic Lecturer, at the University of Johannesburg, Peter Baur says although the call for fees to fall is an important one, there is a limited pool of funds...
Home Affairs has also released its travelers stats for the past holiday season. Home Affaris Minister Melusi Gigaba says there was a notable increase in traveller movement in the peak 2016 period compared to 2014 and 2015. Home Affairs Spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete...
Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande says 83 percent of professors at universities in South Africa are white. Speaking on the Forum at eight on AM Live this morning, Minister Nzimande says an additional 6.9 billion rand has been allocated to fund students at tertiary institutions for the 2016 academic year. But he bemoaned the lack of transformation of institutional culture, language and curriculum transformation. Professor Adam Habib, head of Unviersities South Africa, says the universities are identifying black candidates for promotion into higher positions. He admitted they've been lathargic up to now...
Thick gray smoke is billowing into the skies above the Western Cape's South Peninsula this afternoon. More than a hundred firefighters have been battling a roaring fire since the early morning. Five helicopters and 25 fire trucks have been dispatched to contain the blaze. Strong south easterly winds are fanning the flames that started on the slopes of Scarborough, Misty Cliff and Ocean View this morning. Spokesperson for Cape Town Fire and Rescue, Theo Layne - He's the...
King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's son Azenathi has been endorsed to act as regent whilst his father is in prison serving his 12-year jail term. The announcement was made by the Deputy Labour minister, Nkosi Phatekile Holomisa after a meeting which took place at Bumbane Great Place outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. Abathembu Royal House Spokesperson, Nkosi Bhovulengwe Mtirara...
The Mahikeng provincial Hospital has experienced an influx of patients being referred to the hospital as a result of the heat wave. North West Department ofHhealth Spokesperson Tebogo Lekgethwane...
The #FeesMustFall campaign has started up again as uinversities open their doors for student registrations. Last year students across South Africa shut down universities and clashed with police as they protestested against rising tuition costs. At the University of Johannesburg, student cards have been blocked & all student access to UJ has allegedly been barred ahead of the latest #FeesMustFall protests, with students being told to register online. Student leader Linokuhle Xulu..
A new study of major floods around the world is highlighting the importance of where cities are being built. It calls for tighter construction restrictions on private developers to build outside flood-prone areas. Professor Guy Michaels at the London School of Economics is the co-author of the report that found flooding worldwide has killed more than a half a million people over the last three decades. He says sea levels are rising and flooding is likely to get worse...
Gauteng Principals whose schools did badly in the 2015 Matric examinations are going to be fired. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi told reporters that by the time schools reopened these principals would no longer be employed. The MEC also added that those District officials who were giving support to these schools will also face the axe. The South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) on the other hand says no-one will be fired without proper legal procedures. Gauteng Department of Education Chief of Staff Oupa Bodibe & SADTU Gauteng Provincial Secretary Tseliso Ledimo...
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga revealed the official 2015 pass rate of 70-point-7 percent but Equal Education says this is not a true reflection of education in South Africa. The Advocacy organisation says the real matric pass rate is 42-percent. General Secretary Tshepo Motsepe...
The ANC Youth League is picketing outside Standard Bank in the Johannesburg CBD over reported racist tweets by Economist Chris Hart. The organisation is demanding that the economist be fired over the tweets. ANCYL Gauteng Spokesperson, Mbali Hlophe...
The Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle, says a speedy intervention is needed to improve the quality of education in the province. Masualle has been reacting to the decline in the provincial pass rate in the 2015 matric results. The province has obtained a 56-point-eight per cent pass rate down from 65-point-four per cent it recorded in 2014. SADTU Eastern Cape Task Team Administrator, Chris Mdingi...
Despite the five-point-one percent drop in the matric pass rate, the class of 2015 has yielded almost 52 thousand more learners who qualify for entry into higher learning compared to 2014. This may prove to be a challenge for institutions of higher learning to accommodate prospective student as more learners vie for places. Department of Higher Education & Training Media Liaison Officer Khaye Nkwanyana...
A protest by South Africa's university students made international news in 2016. The #FeesMustFall protest spread to London, New York, Tokyo and elsewhere.The protests started at Wits University in Johannesburg in October 2015. They spread across the country to University of Cape Town, Rhodes University and at least 15 major institutions of higher learning across the country. When they finally arrived at the Union Buildings - the country's official seat of government - the gloves were off...
- This was compiled with the help of several SABC reporters, UCT PhD student Wandile Kasibe and The Daily Vox reporter Raeesa Pather
The world is over-armed and peace is under-funded. This message from United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon follows another bloody year. Can the UN’s low-cost message compete with deadly and expensive wars in 2016? In part one of this two part series, Dhashen Moodley looks for the answer from a peace ceremony at the UN in New York...
The Global Development Centre calls for the United States to establish stronger policies on trade and peacekeeping to help poorer nations. This comes just two months after more than 150 world leaders met at the United Nations in New York to create a new agenda for sustainable development. Dhashen Moodley compiled this report...
Pope Francis has warned against a thirst for power and wealth. The Pontiff delivered a persuasive speech to world leaders gathered at the United Nations in New York this year. He reached across national and religious boundaries to demand justice for the weak and called for a world free of nuclear weapons. Dhashen Moodley compiled this report...
Vodacom head to the Competition Tribunal tomorrow for a pre-hearing on their multi-billion rand bid to buy Neotel. Other mobile operators have been trying to block the deal arguing that it will give Vodacom an unfair advantage. But the country's largest mobile operator has announced that it would restructure the deal to exclude the use of Neotel's spectrum. Dhashen Moodley speaks to technology journalist, founder and editor of TechCentral, Duncan McLeod....
The Ethics Institute has found that 1 out of 5 South Africans who were asked for a bribe ended up paying it. The survey posed open questions to over 6-thousand people about bribery in Gauteng, Durban, Cape Town and Polokwane. Dhashen Moodley asked Organisational Ethics Development Manager at Ethics SA Kris Dobie to explain the results...
From Paris to Parys in the Free State, where environmental justice organisation Groundwork launched their report criticising South Africa's climate response. The report argues that the COP21 negotiations will fail. Author of the report David Hallowes explains why. Meanwhile, amid cop21 discussions, the Department of Science and Technology is hosting the country's first public Science Forum. Over the next two days at the CSIR International Convention Centre, South Africa's finest minds are gathering to contribute towards a culture of open discussion and access to science, technology and innovation. Director General of the Department of Science and Technology, Phil Mjwara..
The High Court in Pretoria has ruled that Police Minister Nathi Nhleko acted unlawfully in suspending Independent Police Investigative Directorate boss, Robert McBride's. McBride approached the court, in August, arguing that Nhleko had no powers to suspend him without consulting other members of Cabinet, in terms of the Constitution. He was suspended in March as part of the fallout into an investigation into the illegal deportation of five Zimbabweans wanted for murder. Robert McBride's lawyer, Jac Maree...
According to a report by the World Bank titled: "Stocktaking of the Housing Sector in Sub-Saharan Africa" Africa faces a major housing crisis due to rapid urbanisation and growing informal settlements. It says while many governments in Africa are delivering housing to meet the demands of a growing urban population - these programmes are extremely costly to governments and out of reach for the urban poor. World Bank's Global Lead for City Management, Finance and Governance, Roland White...
Striking SAMWU members have now been charged with contempt of court after PIKITUP laid charges against them for failing to comply with a court interdict ordering them to return to work. The workers have been on an illegal strike since last Monday. Talks between the union and PIKITUP have come to a dead end, with the waste management company saying they will not negotiate further until workers return to their posts. SAMWU Deputy General Secretary, Simon Mathe...
Talks between waste collection company PIKITUP and municipal union, SAMWU, are continuing today, The workers have been on an unprotected strike since last Monday, with SAMWU leadership vowing to continue striking until their wage increase demands and the resignation of PIKITUP boss, have been addressed. Meanwhile, Pikitup has appointed a service provider to begin cleaning up the inner-city and resume normal services. They're also asking residents to do their bit to better manage their waste. Pikitup Managing Director, Amanda Nair
About Seventeen thousand learners in Limpopo are going to re-write two Life Sciences exam papers. The exam paper was reportedly leaked a week ago in the province. Basic Education Spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga....
Two council members at the University of the Western Cape have been suspended for alleged misconduct during the recent violent student protests at the university. An adhoc committee has been established to investigate the conduct of Brian Williams and Songezo Maqula. University of the Western Cape Council member, Lydon Barens...
Food and Allied Workers Union and other fellow Cosatu affilliates lost in a bid to get the issues of NUMSA and Zwelinzima Vavi discussed at COSATU congress. NUMSA and Cosatu's Former General Secretary were officially dismissed yesterday. Food and Allied Workers Union(FAWU) General Secretary, Katishi Masemola...
The SABC is set to appeal the Cape Town High Court decision to set aside the permanent appointment of SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng. This follows the Democratic Alliance's court challenge to have Motsoeneng's appointment declared unlawful and irrational. Motsoeneng is currently on special leave, pending a disciplinary hearing by the SABC. SABC Spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago...
One of COSATU's largest union, South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union says it's time COSATU cleans- up house as the federation moves forward. SACCAWU General Secretary, Bones Skulu, gives his assessment of COSATU's 12th National Congress...
As the spotlight falls on the country's largest labour federation COSATU's 12th National Congress in Johannesburg this week, the youth of some of the most under privileged communities in the Northern Cape battle to make ends meet. Communities such as Okiep, Bersig and Kamieskroon were previously the hub of copper mining activity but their unemployment rates began to peak, one after the other, when the mines began closing down in the early nineties. Molebogeng Sebidi reports...
How do you predict the future? Do you peer into crystal balls, play with tarot cards or call into SAFM to speak with a psychic? It might work for you, but it's not going to convince government that implementing a National Minimum Wage will be good for the economy. Statistician Dr Asghar Adelzadeh has attempted to estimate the impact of a National Minimum Wage using statistical models and he explains how he predicts the future...
According to a survey by the Afrobarometer the perception that president Jacob Zuma ignores the law has more than double since 2011. The study also found that the majority of South Africans agree that unemployment is one of the most important problems. This as the organisation release its first survey data on South Africa's leadership and government performance since 2011. Afrobarometer's Project Manager, Anyway Chingwete...
The game Tetris quickly became a global sensation and today it's helping to keep the lights on in South Africa. Dhashen Moodley spoke with Eskom spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe and asked him how a game from 1984 is saving us from loadshedding...
The Water Institute of Southern Africa has come out swinging against armchair activists who they accuse of playing the blame game in the water crisis facing the country. The institute's patrons include the Department of Water and Sanitation, Eskom and various water boards across the country. CEO Lester Goldman says the public must make changes in lifestyle to ensure a safe and sustainable water supply and he explains why...
A group of foreign National and Unemployed People's Movement are staging a protest action in front of the Grahamstown City hall in the Eastern Cape they demanding an intervention by Eastern Cape Premier Phumulo Masualle. This after over 300 of their shops were looted and some torched last month. The attacks followed allegations that one of the foreign nationals was involved in a number of murders. Unemployed People Movement's organiser, Ayanda Kota...
The South African National Defence force says it has dismissed 47 peacekeepers serving in the United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo for violating curfew. Defence Force spokesperson Brigadier General Xolani Mabanga...
Scores have been left dead in Nigeria after two suicide bombers attacked and killed 15 people in a market in northern Nigeria's main city, Kano and another killing more than 30 people in the north-eastern Yola city on Tuesday. Boko Haram is suspected to be behind the attacks, having targeted the city before. Director of News at the Voice of Nigeria, Ahaziah Sulieman...
Protests at the Tshwane University of Technology, Soshanguve campus have started, a day before the scheduled exams are set to begin. A group of student are outside protesting, with police nyalas present. Tshwane University of Technology Spokesperson, Willa De Ruyter...
There's a strong police presence at parliament today as the NEHAWU affiliated workers embark on their fifth day of protests. Staff have been defying a court order that bars them from protesting on the precinct. Yesterday, workers vowed to occupy the offices of the human resource manager, Mpho Mokonyane and the Secretary of Parliament, Gengezi Mgidlana. Mgidlana responds to a question on the threats to occupy his office...
NEHAWU leaders and parliament management are meeting behind closed doors, while striking staff continue their protest in the precinct. The union is protesting over performance bonuses and better working conditions. Union leaders and Parliament management have been locked in continuous meetings over the issues. Chairperson of NEHAWU in Parliament, Sthembiso Tembe...
A looming electricity cut-off at the Ditsobotla Municipality in the North-West has left business people worried. The municipality owes Eskom a R130 Million in unpaid electricity bills. Local businesses say it will be unfair for Eskom to cut-off the whole area as it will affect those who are paying. Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
Police have arrested a second suspect for brutally attacking two couples at Rhodes Park in Kensington. Two men were killed and a woman was raped during the incident after they were attacked by a group of at least 12 men. Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Lungelo Dlamini...
A single mother living in Coronationville is deeply frustrated with the City of Joburg. For nearly a month, 37 year old Louis Fortuin has been complaining about having no water. Louis Fortuin and a Member of the Mayoral Committee for Johannesburg's Environment and Infrastructure, Matshidiso Mfikoe -
The 16 students arrested at the University of the Western Cape yesterday have been granted bail at the Bellville Magistrate's court. Family and friends filled the court room to support the arrested, while some parents have expressed frustration at a third postponement of exams. Eleven students were arrested for public violence, arson and malicious damage to property. Five were arrested for assault with grievous bodily harm. SRC President Akhona Lunda...
Student representatives at the University of Johannesburg are in discussions with management over the ongoing protests and demands of the students and workers. Contract workers at the university are still not at work, and have dismissed an agreement signed on Sunday, saying they were not involved in the negotiations. University of Johannesburg's Deputy Vice Chancellor Mpho Letlape and UJ SRC Secretary General, Mmangaliso Mkhonta
There are fears that Telkom's possible acquisition of Cell C may lead to mass retrenchments. Telkom recently confirmed that it is in a bid to buy the mobile cellular network. To further discuss this we are joined on the line by the Communications Workers Union President, Clyde Mervin
The ongoing strike by NEHAWU Parliamentary staff has caused a postponement of the sitting of the National Assembly. Workers say that their current demands do not fall in the two year agreement that was put in place earlier this year. The Union is hopeful management will begin engaging with them soon. NEHAWU Chairperson, Sthembiso Tembe for more on this...
The South African Airforce has been hiring expensive private planes to transport the President. Briefing the media on the acquisition of a new private jet, Armscor CEO Kevin Wakeford says he doesn't know where the R4bn speculated in the media comes from, at the moment they have a request for information
The National Treasury has reportedly taken back infrastructure grants from sixteen North West municipalities. The money was returned due to the inability to provide services to respective communities by the municipalities. SALGA North West Provincial Chairperson, Kaone Lobelo...
Fezeka Nhleko, a wife and mother of two was arrested, along with other workers and students, for the first time on Friday after allegedly contravening a court order. She left East London almost four year ago to seek employment and has been working at the University of Johannesburg as a cleaner. She waited outside the Johannesburg magistrates court for hours before seeing the magistrate where the charges against them were later dropped...
There has been much talk about the reported plans to buy President Jacob Zuma a private jet at an estimated R4 billion. Armscor, the defence force’s acquisitions agency, had published on its website’s tender noticeboard, a request that the jet will have a range of 13 800km. Defence Secretary Dr Sam Gulube The Presidents New Jet and Military Analyst Helmoed-Romer Heitman...
MTN shares slipped more than two per cent at the beginning of trade this morning, following news of the immediate resignation of its group CEO Sifiso Dabengwa. Dabengwa threw in the towel as the mobile giant, currently in crisis mode, battles a 5.2 billion dollar fine, for failure to comply with regulations in Nigeria. Chief Economist at Efficient Group, Dawie Roodt...
The US is crying foul over South Africa's alleged failure to eliminate long-standing trade barriers on US poultry, pork, and beef imports. The minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Dabies says they are doing all they can to ensure that they clear the barriers as soon as possible. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Minister of of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana...
The US is crying foul over South Africa's alleged failure to eliminate long-standing trade barriers on US poultry, pork, and beef imports. The minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Dabies says they are doing all they can to ensure that they clear the barriers as soon as possible. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Minister of of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana...
The Standing and Select Committees on Appropriations held a meeting yesterday (Wednesday) where they agreed that funding for the tertiary education sector has to be increased. The committees together with the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training were discussing the funding of post-school education, including the implications of no fee increases at universities in 2016. The Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Appropriations, Paul Mashatile
Security guards and workers outside the University of Johannesburg's Kingsway campus and are currently clashing after workers and some students were locked out of the campus following clashes with workers and police yeterday. They have been calling on the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ihron Rensburg to address them over their demands to be hired directly by the university, while Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Mpho Letlape says UJ is committed to ending the outsourcing of workers. Dhashen Moodley speaks with reporter Wisani Makhubele, SRC President Khutso Rammutla and University of Johannesburg Deputy... Vice Chancellor, Mpho Letlape
All South Africans have a constitutional right to a basic education. But are government's policies fulfilling this right? Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute - SPIII - are releasing a report today to seek answers to this question. Dhashen Moodley speaks with the author of the report, freelance education lawyer Shaun Franklin - he began by asking whether matric pass rates are a good measure of success in education?
It's exactly a month since an airstrike completely destroyed a hospital in Kunduz, Afghanistan killing 30 people. It was the only facility of its kind in the area providing emergency trauma care to more than 300-thousand people...
MTN's stock has lost more than a quarter of its value in the past seven sessions on the JSE. It amounts to nearly 60 billion rand of its market value as it faces a deadline to pay a fine amounting to nearly 70 billion rand. The Nigerian Communications Commission penalised the telecoms giant for failing to cut off unregistered users in the company's biggest market. It would wipe out more than two years of MTN's annual profits. Nigerian socio-political commentator and Founder of the Guild of Nigerian Professionals in South Africa, Adetunji Omotolo
The CEO of Institute of Race Relations, Dr Franz Cronje says the only solution in dealing with the slow economic growth, is to re-introduce the Growth, Employment, and Redistribution (GEAR) policy of 1996. In the report Cronje, highlighted that between 2004 and 2007, South Africa recorded an average of 5% growth of the GDP. Dhashen Moodley speaks to him and asks, what are some of the reasons he is calling for the GEAR policy to return...
Limpopo police have confirmed that Warrant Officer Thomas Mabada is the fourth police officer to be killed this year. Police spokesperson, colonel Ronel Otto says Mabada was shot and killed by suspected robbers last night in Lwamondo outside Thohoyandou. To look at brutal killing of Police officers Dhashen Moodley speaks with Senior researcher at Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR)Themba Masuku...
Seventeen schools at Ganyesa villages, outside Vryburg in the North West, have been closed for the past three weeks due to a stand-off between government and protesting communities. Thousands of learners were restricted from attending any classes by the disgruntled community. This as the residents of Ganyesa village protest over the abandoned multi-million rand road constructions work in their area. Spokesperson for the North West Department of Education, Elias Malindi...
The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) says Gauteng road users are eligible for a 60 percent reduction of their e-toll in arrears from today. SANRAL Spokesperson Vusi Mona says necessary steps will be taken against those who fail to pay in the next six months. OUTA Spokesperson, Wayne Duvenhage...
Durban has something in common with California in the United States, Queensland in Australia and Chhattisgarh in India - They're all being hit by one of the worst droughts in living memory...
High Court Judge Basheir Vally last night granted Wits University an interim interdict under the condition that students can continue exercise their right to freedom of expression and protest. The interdict allows the police to step in if there are violent protests. Chairperson of the EFF at Wits, Vuyani Pambo...
The Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga has called on parents to support and encourage learners during the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations and urged learners to keep the momentum until the last paper. Motshekga said this during a media briefing on the progress of the National Senior Certificate examinations. The spokesperson of the Department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga...
Wits University says it does not expect any trouble today as classes resumed after workers protests yesterday. Outsourced workers who were protesting at Wits University's Braamfontein Campus alongside a handful of students yesterday have returned to work. Its business as usual on the campus as students attend lectures in preparation for the upcoming exams. EFF says they will continue their protests. Chairperson of the EFF at Wits, Vuyani Pambo...
The Department of Labour says three people are still in a critical condition in hospital following the collapse of the Grayston bridge in Johannesburg earlier this month. The department just released a preliminary report on the collapse of the Grayston Bridge in Sandton Johannesburg. Acting Director-General at the Department of Labour, Aggy Moiloa...
The Young African Leaders Initiative 2016 is now open for applications. It aims to enhance the young Africans leadership skills, promote entrepreneurship, and connect young Africans to one another and to Americans. US Deputy secretary of the state Todd Haskell...
For years the Timol family has been searching for answers as to what happened to their son, Ahmed Timol on the 27 October 1971. Today on the commemoration of the 44th anniversary of his death in detention, the inquest papers into anti-apartheid activist Timol, will be made public for the first time. An Inquest was opened on 1 December 1971 and the presiding magistrate found that he had jumped to his death from the 10th floor of the infamous John Vorster Square Police Station. Ahmed Timol's nephew, Imitiaz Gajee...
The Vice Chancellor of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology says a third force could be fuelling violent student protests on its Bellville campus. Windows were shattered and vehicles damaged during protests over fees this weekend. In an attempt to understand the violence before we characterise it as a third force, Dhashen Moodley speaks to President of the International Union of Psychological Science, Dr Saths Cooper...
Police are expecting to make more arrests following violent protests that broke out at the University of Limpopo last night, resulting in damage to university property. A number of students who were arrested earlier are expected to appear in the Mankweng Magistrate's Court today to face an array of charges. University of SASCO Treasurer General Precious Banda...
EFF members are today marching to the Reserve Bank's Johannesburg office, the Chamber of Mines in the CBD and then to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in Sandton, to hand over a memorandum of demands. Their demands include regulation of the banking sector, better pay for mine workers and economic transformation. Efficient Group's Chief Economist Dawie Roodt...
Security is tight outside Parliament as hundreds of students protest there ahead of Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene's Medium Term Budget Police Statement. .The protestors have been chanting and dancing around a burning tyres outside the Parliamentary precinct. Tsepiso Makwetla reports from parliament..
Experts are calling for a national debate on how to fund students who qualify for university but lack the resources to gain access to higher education. On the Forum at eight this morning, Director at the Institute for an African Alternative Ben Turok called for a rethinking on our national priorities. So could a solution come from higher taxes on the rich? To discuss this further, we are joined by Alex Gwala, Partner in Business Tax at Deloitte
The University of Pretoria has suspended all academic activities for the day. This is because students will join in the wave of campus protests over tuition fees. Registration fees for 2016 are projected to increase from R5 000 to R7 000. The university says that all tests and examinations for the day have been resheduled. SASCO Provincial Secretary, Lwande Majiza...
Protesting University of Cape Town students are now making their way to various residences around campus to force outsourced workers to leave their jobs. The workers include security guards and cleaners. Students want the university to stop private companies from rendering services on campus. Classes were again suspended today as the no-free increase campaign gained momentum. The University has obtained an interdict preventing students from disrupting normal operations on campus. University of Cape Town Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof Francis Peterson...
The anniversary of Black Wednesday comes amidst calls for laws to protect good journalism. Yesterday President Jacob Zuma assured journalists gathered at his Pretoria guesthouse that the Protection of State Information Bill and an inquiry into a Media Appeals Tribunal will not subvert government's commitment to a free and democratic society. Today, university students across various campuses are demanding access to quality education as the means of lifting them out of poverty. New and social media at Wits University Dinesh Balliah...
The Black Sash says the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is inundated with complaints from beneficiaries about unlawful and fraudulent deductions from their grants. The Constitutional Court found tender irregularities by SASSA in awarding a tender to Cash Paymaster Services to manage the social grants system. The Black Sash will hold a silent protest at the SASSA national office in Pretoria. Executive Manager for Grants Administration at SASSA, Dianne Dunkerley, responds to Dashen Moodley's conversation with National Advocacy Manager at the Black Sash, Elroy Paulus...
The Black Sash says the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is inundated with complaints from beneficiaries about unlawful and fraudulent deductions from their grants. The Constitutional Court found tender irregularities by SASSA in awarding a tender to Cash Paymaster Services to manage the social grants system. The Black Sash will hold a silent protest at the SASSA national office in Pretoria. Dashen Moodley speaks to National Advocacy Manager at the Black Sash, Elroy Paulus...
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has given South Africa more time to explain why it failed to arrest Sudan's President Omar Al-Bashir, this after government had indicated they needed more time to respond. This in the midst of debate whether South Africa should withdraw from the ICC. Meanwhile, the Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto and radio journalist Joshua Arap Sang are appearing before the ICC on charges of crimes against humanity. Dashen Moodley speaks with Jack Parrock who was in the Hague...
Ten players from the Eritrean football team have been detained by Botswana Police after refusing to board their plane back to their home country. The players were in Botswana to play the Zebras in the 2018 World Cup qualifying game over the weekend. The Eritrean Movement for Democracy and Human Rights based in Pretoria has since instructed the Botswana lawyer Dick Bayford to represent them. Dashen Moodley speaks with him...
According to the Mail&Guardian - figures from the Department of Higher Education in July show that student debt is at about R5-billion across universities. That's twice as high as the entire video-game market in South Africa - according to PwC. Student debt has reportedly been growing at an average of over 2-percent per year - which well outperforms South Africa's growth rate. Honours student in the Media Studies Department at Wits and a senior reporter the Daily Vox, Pontsho Pilane...
Three years ago, the Department of Health instituted new food labeling regulations in South Africa. It makes it mandatory to list the name and address of the food manufacturer, instructions for use, a nutrient analysis, a list of ingredients and a list of common allergens. In one of the first industry moves to date - Woolworths have taken 12 ice cream products off their shelves which failed to display the necessary peanut allergen warnings. Customers are advised to check for the required labels or return it to Woolworths for a full refund. We have on the line a mother of a six year old boy with severe allergies. Allergy Alive - Hayley Katz, thanks for joining us...
After weeks of back-and-forth talks, SABMiller and InBev have reached an agreement in principle, for InBev to buy SAB for almost 69 billion pounds (about R1.4trn). This take over has been reported that it would create what is by far the world's biggest brewing company. For more on this we are now joined on the line by Janice Kew, a Bloomberg Journalist in South Africa...
We've seen the launch of National Youth Policy 2020 which aims to promote entrepreneurship and encourage economic development and transformation amongst young people. However, starting your own business comes with a number of challenges. Professor Jurie Van Vuuren from the Department of Business Management at the university of Pretoria, conducted at study to look at the challenges facing entrepreneurs and what role has mentorship played in creating viable and sustainable businesses....
Free State farmers are getting desperate as high temperatures and drought conditions persist. With the current heat wave and hardly any rain fall in the past few months, conditions are worsening and the drought is expected to continue until March next year. The Chairperson of the National Emergent Red Meat Producers Organisation, Masedi Lethuka...
A Class Act court case against 32 mining companies by workers continues at the Johannesburg High Court. Section 27 groups have also joined the miners who have contracted silicosis and tuberculosis while working for gold mines. Sonke Gender Justice Policy and Advocacy Specialist, Tanya Charles...
The South African Post Office CEO Mlu Mathonsi has reportedly resigned. Mathonsi took over from Chris Hlekane who resigned on the first of September this year. Communications Workers Union President, Clyde Mervin........
Today, the phrase "it's just not cricket" is commonly used to say that something is dishonest or unfair. And that's how the ANC feels about the ICC - Not the acronym for the International Cricket Council, but rather, the International Criminal Court. The ruling party says the ICC has lost direction. Steven Gruzd at the Institute for International Affairs...
DA Member of Parliament, Dianne Kohler-Barnard, is facing a disciplinary hearing following her sharing a Facebook post that called for the return of former apartheid state president PW Botha. Kohler-Barnard has already been demoted within the DA's parliamentary structure. Bongi Gwala speaks to Mercedes Bersent...
The South African Broadcasting Corporation has instructed its lawyers to lodge an urgent appeal with the Constitutional Court, in regards to the Judgement handed down by the Supreme Court of Appeal yesterday. Bongi Gwala speaks to SABC Spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago...
Shrien Dewani is expected to tell the North London Coroner Court today if he will be able to answer questions on the death of his wife Anni Dewani. Anni Dewani was shot and killed during a honeymoon visit to Cape Town after an alleged hijacking. Bongi Gwala speaks to Feature News Stories Correspondent, Catherine Drew...
Johannesburg may suffer a total blackout if City Power does not resolve its problems with the South African Municipal Workers' Union (SAMWU). The union says it will go on a full blown strike should issues of alleged corruption in City Power management not be addressed.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein has dismissed with costs an appeal application by the SABC, Communications Minister and SABC COO Hlaudi Motsoeneng. They were appealing a ruling by the Western Cape High Court that Motsoeneng be suspended and disciplinary steps be taken against him. The Democratic Alliance approached the High Court to enforce remedial action proposed by Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. Bongi Gwala spoke to Hlaudi Motsoeneng's Lawyer Zola Majavu...
Agang, COPE and UDM's case against National Assembly speaker Baleka Mbete has been dismissed by the Western Cape High Court . The three parties wanted Mbete to be declared unfit to hold office. They also wanted the court to allow the use of a secret ballot among MP's on a no-confidence motion in the president. Bongi Gwala speaks to Agang MP Andries Tlouamma...
Backlog has grown from 1-point-5 million units in 1994 to 2-point-1 million units today.That's according to a report released by the South African Institute of Race Relation. To date, close to 3-million houses have been built; however the backlog is bigger than it was in 1994. Bongi Gwala spoke with Head of Policy Research at the Institute of Race Relations, Dr Anthea Jeffery about this issue...
Thousands of National Union Mineworkers members have downed tools as they embark on a strike that started yesterday. The main rally is being held in the coal mining district of eMalahleni in Mpumalanga province. Eskom says the strike will not have an immediate effect as they have enough coal supply for the next thirty days. We spoke to Eskom's spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe and NUM Acting National Spokesperson, Lebuane Mammburu
The Helen Suzman Foundation has sent a request to the Public Protector to investigate alleged corruption by Eskom on the awarding of tenders to Hitachi for power plants. Hitachi allegedly engaged in fraudulant activities in securing contracts for the Medupi and Kusile power plants. To further discuss we speak to Helen Suzman Foundation's Legal Researcher, Kameel Premhid...
As Solidarity and UASA browse through the draft agreement in preparation to sign the wage deal per mandate from their members, AMCU is yet to communicate their decision regarding the offer. Lead Researcher at Bech Marks Foundation, David Van Wyk speaks to us...
The small and medium business sector is seen as a critical component to economic development and transformation. And many have also argued that SMMEs could be vital in job creation in the country. The question is, are the policies in place conducive in creating an environment that will help these small enterprises thrive? Dr Menish Moos from the Department of Business Management at the University of Pretoria...
Freelance journalist for Noseweek Paul Kirk has defended his comments labelled racist and praises for apartheid leader PW Botha, saying it is pure satire. This as DA senior member Diane Kohler-Barnard faces a disciplinary inquiry for reposting his comments. The DA's shadow minister of police Kohler Barnard has apologised and says she is ashamed that she shared the post. But the party leader Mmusi Maimane says her comments are indefensible and their social network policy is clear that no member can tweet racist comments.
The DA in Tshwane says the municipality still has to settle a 1.3 Billion Rand termination fee with smart meter service provider PEU. The DA says the contract was terminated at a loss of 1 Billion Rand and now looks set to cost the city more. City of Tshwane Spokesperson, Selby Bokaba...
The DA in Tshwane says the municipality still has to settle a 1.3 Billion Rand termination fee with smart meter service provider PEU. The DA says the contract was terminated at a loss of 1 Billion Rand and now looks set to cost the city more. DA Tshwane Mayoral Candidate Solly Msimanga had this to say...
South Africa has risen seven places from 56 to 49 of 140 countries.This according to the 2015/16 results of the World Economic Forum's annual Global Competitiveness Index.It further shows that South Africa has made significant improvements towards ensuring we are a globally competitive inward destination. Brand South Africa's CEO Kingsley Makhubela says building a country's competitiveness is a collective endevour involving the collaboration of government, business and civil society...
The Constitutional Court has dismissed Non-Profit Organisation My Vote Count's application to force political parties to disclose their private funders. The court says the issues involved can be heard by a lower court. The NGO brought the case to the court in their campaign for a transparent and accountable political system. My Vote Counts', Judith February...
Hundreds people are gathering in different parts of the country to march against corruption. Former Cosatu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi will be leading one of the anti-corruption marches at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Director of the Public Service Accountability Monitoring at Rhodes University, Jay Kruuse
South African comedian Trevor Noah has made his debut hosting the popular American satirical news programme, The Daily Show. The initial reaction has been positive from fans and critics alike. But the decision to choose Noah to host a US show was originally greeted with scepticism and questions about whether a South African could do it. So how exactly did fans react to his first show? Nick Harper reports from New York.
One- thousand job loses were recorded in the 2nd quarter of 2015, this loses were contributed mainly by the manufacturing, transport and business service industries. However, the trade industry created about 8-thousand jobs in the same period. Bongi Gwala speaks to Dr Azar Jammine from Econometrix...
The Socio-Economic Rights Institute released a report that reflects on the daily lives and challenges faced by informal traders in the Johanneburg City Centre. The reports also deals with the Operation Clean Sweep which took place in 2013, where seven thousand street traders were evicted from their stalls. Bongi Gwala speaks to Socio-Economic Rights Institute researcher, Dennis Webster...
A woman who was caught at the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg with drugs worth four-point-six-million-rand is expected to appear at the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court today.The SA Revenue Service's Luther Lebelo says customs officials found 15 parcels hidden her luggage.Bongi Gwala speaks to SA Revenue Service's spokesperson Luther Lebelo....
Police Commissioner Riyah Phiyega says about 10.8 Billion Rand left the country in the past year through illegal transfers. Phiyega was delivering crime statistics for the year 2014-2015. Meanwhile Police Minister Nathi Nhleko says alcohol and drug abuse continue to drive up the levels of crime, despite the success in clamping down on illegal shebeens. South African Institute for Race Relations Crime Analyst, Kerwin Lebone.......
Czech fugitive Radovan Krejcir has moved to a new cell at the Zonderwater Correctional Centre east of Pretoria. This follows an attempted escape plan from prison involving Krejcir and other inmates.Several items including a firearm and ammunition, cellphones, a knife, prison warden uniform and a diary which contained the names of witnesses and investigators in his cases, were discovered in his cell. The police say this is his forth escape attempt. Bongi Gwala speaks to Police Spokesperson, Solomon Makgale and Project Coordinator at the Civil Society Prison Reform Initiative, Dr Lucas Muntingh...
Right to Know Campaign is hosting marches in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Kwa-Zulu Natal, this as part of the International Right to Know Day. The day aims to raise awareness about the right to access government information. Bongi Gwala speaks to Carina Conradie who is with the Right to Know Campaign...
The Saudi Arabian government says the stampede that has killed more than 700 people may have been caused by failure to adhere to authority instructions by pilgrimages. The stampede is the worst disaster to strike the annual haj pilgrimage in 25 years. Hajj Watch's Public Relations Officer Yakoob Rawat...
The Volkswagen supervisory board is due to meet today to announce a new chief executive and provide further details about the diesel engine scandal that's engulfed the company.
Crime Analyst, Kerwin Lebone says that serious crime rates have deteriorated in past twenty years by over 50-per cent. This after the South African Institute of Race Relations issued its overview of a crime and security report, ahead of the police's annual crime update this month. Lebone says that a major concern is the increase in crimes such as armed robberies...
Taxis are still not operating in the Ethekwini Metropolitan in Durban where operators are on strike. Taxi industry leaders and municipal officials are currently meeting in an effort to resolve issues related to Metro Police's impounding of taxis. Kwanele Ncalane, spokesperson for the KZN Transport MEC, says the government is not willing to compromise the legitimacy of running a public transport system...
High Education minister Blade Nzimande is pinning hopes on the 2nd National Higher Education Transformation Summit to be held in Durban next month, to provide solution in addressing challenges experienced at various institutions of higher learning. Nzimanade was addressing the media in Pretoria on the preparations of the planned transformation summit. The summit will create a platform for taking stock on the progress made from the 2010 summit and map out a new trajectory on radical transformation of the sector. Deputy Director at the Department of Higher Education, Dr Diane Parker...
Teacher unions, SADTU, NATU, NAPTOSA, PEU and SAOU say they are not going to administer the Annual National Assessment tests. The unions argue that the assessment is of no value to the education system and are calling for the remodelling of the system. SADTU Deputy General Secretary Nkosana Dolopi & Professor of Education Policy and Head of Education Leadership, Policy and Skills at Wits School of Education, Professor Brahm Fleisch...
The mineral resources department says it is considering various options to assist in recovering the bodies of illegal miners who died and remain trapped underground at an old East Rand mine. Bongi Gwala speaks to the Spokesperson for the Department of Mineral Resources, Phuti Mabelebele...
The North Gauteng High Court has denied directors of Aurora Mining Company leave to appeal against a judgement which held them liable for damages after stripping mine assets. The directors include Khulubuse Zuma and Zondwa Mandela are been held laible for the stripping of mine assets to the value of one-point seven billion rand at the Pamodzi Gold Mine in Orkney. COSATU North West Provincial Secretary Solly Pheteo...
A man believed to have been involved in yesterday's KwaMashu hostel killings has been arrested. Five people were killed at the hostel, north of Durban when a group of five people opened fire. Four people died at the scene, while another died on the way to hospital. One person - believed to be one of the attackers - was found dead with a 9mm pistol next to him. Police spokesperson Jay Naicker says more arrests are expected soon. .....
The North Gauteng High Court has denied the state leave to appeal a High Court ruling in Pretoria against its finding that the failure to arrest Sudanese leader Omar Al Bashir was unconstitutional. South Africa failed to execute the ICC arrest warrant on Sudan President Omar Al-Bashir when he attended an African Union summit in Johannesburg in June.
Students at the University of KwaZulu Natal have threatened to intensify their protests and spread them to more campuses. the protests stem from the alleged plans by the university to increase registration fees. Yesterday, students at the Westville campus burnt the management building and some vehicles. SASCO Spokesperson, Phinda Mofokeng...
KZN Hawks Head Johan has been suspended. Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi has confirmed the suspension. Booysen is accused of submitting fraudulent documents to claim performance bonuses, for tracking down wanted suspects. The Major- Genereal has had a previous suspension declared unlawful and invalid. Booysen also had racketeering charges against him withdrawn. Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi...
Some parents are demanding that several learners from Laerskool Randfontein west of Johannesburg be suspended after video footage of an alleged bullying incident went viral.
The DA is challenging the permanent appointment of Major General Mthandazo Ntlemeza as the head of the Hawks. The party says it will request the chairperson of Parliament's Police Portfolio committee to summon Police Minister Nathi Nhleko to explain the rationality of the appointment. Ntlemeza had been acting in the post. Earlier this year, High Court Judge Elias Matojane strongly criticised Ntlemeza's behaviour in a case relating to the former head of the Hawks in Gauteng, Major General Shadrack Sibiya. DA spokesperson on police, Dianne Kohler Barnard..
The Tshwane North TVET College management, in Soshanguve, North of Pretoria, is seeking a court order to evict students from campus hostels. Angry students embarked on a protest yesterday, halting classes. They are demanding that management pay them for outstanding meals, accomodation and transports allowences. Student representative, Lebogang Mashile...
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa says these current economic challenges should be seen as a great opportunity to create and save jobs. Ramaphosa said this while addressing the delegates at the 20th Annual Nedlac Summit in Pretoria. The summit is being held under the theme powering the economy for job creation and security. Nedlac Executive Director, Mahandra Naidoo..
The trial of a police officer who is also a ZCC priest, continues today at the Seshego Regional Court. He is accused of allegedly raping one of his congregants while praying for her. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has charged two police officers at the Seshego Police station of defeating the ends of justice. This after allegedly being paid 1, 500 Rand each by their colleague police officer, for making the victim of the rape sign a withdrawal statement and making the docket disappear. Grace Langa, National Spokesperson for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate....
The Minister of Home Affairs, Malusi Gigaba says the department has no intentions to amend the dual citizenship legislation. Gigaba said this during a media briefing following discussions that suggested the review of South Africa's citizenship legislation was on the cards. He further told the media that they cannot amend the Act because they don't like Israel. Spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs, Mayihlome Tshwete...
For the third consecutive day, residents from the Missionvale area in the Eastern Cape have disrupted traffic. The R75 between Uitenhage and Port Elizabeth was closed to traffic this morning due to protests about housing delivery and electricity. Protesters from this area were pelting cars with stones prompting the police to close the road for the safety of motorists as well as to assist with clearing debris off the road. Mtubanzi Mniki, Spokesperson for the Nelson Mandela Municipality...
A north London coroner is to ask Shrien Dewani whether he's prepared to answer questions about the death of his wife Anni in Cape Town in 2010. Her family attended a hearing earlier today to make their case that a full inquest should proceed. This as the inquest into the death of Anni Dewani gets underway in London. The north london coroner, Andrew Walker is set to announce the scope of the inquest which was opened and adjourned in 2010. This raises the prospect that her husband Shrien Dewani could, for the first time, be called to answer questions about her death. Our correspondent in London, Catherine Drew..
Schooling in Limpopo has been disrupted in various areas of the province due to protests. Learners at some schools in the Mapela area have missed school for two weeks. Senior Manager of the Communication Services at Limpopo's education department, Dr Naledzani Rasila....
Tension mounts in Maropeng township in Lephalale, Limpopo, this after 21 busses were set alight, along with a satellite police station and a municipal office, while a library was left partly damaged. The damage was allegedly caused by a mob of former construction workers at the nearby Eskom Medupi Power Station and is estimated to be worth millions of rands. Eskoms spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe says the chaos in Lephalale hasn't affected operations at the power station. Lieutenant Colonel Malesela Ledoaba, Police Spokesperson in Limpopo...
Government says as many as 58 police officers have been killed since the beginning of 2015. The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration says Operation Fiela has so far made over 9000 arrests in different provinces with Gauteng Province as the highest in a number of arrests. Drugs possession and Undocumented migrants are the highest cases in the arrests. Acting Government Spokesperson Phumla Williams....
Judges at the International Criminal Court are calling on South Africa to defend itself for non-compliance in the debacle over Sudanese president Omar Al-Basir's visit more than two months ago. Al-Bashir is indicted by court for alleged war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity but South African authorities did not arrest and transfer him to the ICC when he attended an AU summit in June. Our Europe correspondent Jack Parrock...
Yesterday I caught up with Andrew Herscowitz who is the coordinator for President Barack Obama's Power Africa and Trade Africa initiatives. Power Africa is an initiative structured to bring together various stakeholders from business to governments from around the world to work in partnership to increase the number of people with access to power. And I started by asking him; for who's benefit are they looking at in expanding the renewable energy's infrastructure..
The Infrastructure Africa Business Forum (IABF) is currently underway in Sandton, North of Johannesburg. The forum sets to unlock economic growth potential in Africa's infrastructure sectors, particularly in the transport sector. In a statement, Dr John Tambi, NEPAD's Transport Infrastructure Expert and steering committee member said Africa has one of the fastest air transport growth rates globally. Deputy Director General for Transport at Department of Public Enterprises, Kgomotso Modise...
The National Assembly is expected to debate the DA's motion calling for an ad hoc committee on whether President Jacob Zuma should be removed from office. The DA alleges that President Zuma violated his oath of office by ignoring a court order preventing Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir from leaving the country during the AU Summit. DA Leader Mmusi Maimane.......
Minister of Mineral Resources Ngoako Ramahlodi, Chamber of Mines, AMCU, NUM, SOLIDARITY, UASA and SAMDA have signed an agreement to mitigate against job losses in the mining industry. Government had set up a Job Loss Task Team to look at ways and means to save Jobs and Ameliorate the Impact of Job Losses in the Mining Sector. Special Advisor to Mineral Resources Minister, Advocate Mahlodi Muofhe......
A new political party, called the Agency for New Agenda, wants World Rugby to scrap the Springboks membership, saying it has betrayed the trust of millions of South Africans. Meanwhile, the Freedom Front plus says South Africa is being prevented from sending its best team to the World Cup due to political interference, which during apartheid lead to an international spo boycott against the country. Agency for New Agenda's Eddie Mokwanatse and a member of the FF Plus, Advocate Anton Alberts...
Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa says about 749 rhinos have been poached , but the Kruger National Park remains the focal point of rhino poaching. Molewa also says although rhino poaching incidents have increased, the number of rhinos killed per day hasn't. Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa…
Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa -Nqakula says Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa used the plan owned by the Guptas for an official visit to Japan because there were no planes available.She also says the officials were not at fault.....
President Jacob Zuma and Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa are chairing a meeting between the judiciary and the executive at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Various ministers are attending the meeting. Our Presidential reporter Tshepo Ikaneng is there...
After a 1st quarter growth rate of 9.8%, the number of residential units completed saw a sharp growth acceleration to 34.8% year-on-year in the 2nd quarter. FNB Economist John Loos says volatile rand will ultimately have a negative impact on the home market demand ....
Mining industry, unions and the minerals department will sign a deal next week to save jobs.A special advisor to Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramahlodi, Advocate Mahlodi Muofhe explains the results of the talks.....
Analysts have warned that food prices will begin to rise. They've sounded the warning following Statistics South Africa's release of the Gross Domestic Product figures.Grain SA Economist Wandile Sihlobo...
The central bank said that it may intervene in the exhange rate after the rand plunged to record lows against the dollar yesterday. The question is, what can the Reserve Bank do to defend the rand given the limited foreign reserves it holds? Dimakatso Leshoro...
Environmental organisation Greenpeace has delivered a letter to Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson asking her to make public, critical information on government's nuclear build programme. Senior Climate and Energy Campaign manager at Greenpeace Africa, Melita Steele, says they want more information made public before government begins procuring suppliers for the nuclear reactors...
The former Gauteng Hawks boss Shadrack Sibiya has chosen to fight against his dismissal. Sibiya was found guilty of misconduct for the arrest and rendition of a group of Zimbabwean murder suspects in 2010. His lawyer, Victor Nkwashu says the disciplinary hearings committee failed to consider all the evidence......
South Africa's rand led the fall in emerging markets currencies, dropping to its lowest level in nineteen months. The fall is fuelled by declines in resources, as these account for half the country's exports. Dimakatso Thugwana...
Two years ago, Derleen James addressed a letter to President Jacob Zuma, a man she calls "dad". In it, she related the stories of mothers trapped by crime in the Eersterus community near Pretoria. One mother aged 67 told her that she lives like a prisoner in her own home. Derleen James ..
The Manufacturing Circle Bulletin for the second quarter of 2015, has found that the disruptions in electricity supply, volatile exchange rate and industrial action have put a dent on the manufacturing sector. According to the companies survey, wide range of factors such as decreased demand for outputs, increased input cost resulting from higher labour and lack of essential skills in the sector are the reason for profit losses in the second quarter. Executive Director of Manufacturing Circle, Conrad Bezuidenhout..
Unethical pastors beware. Those who demand of worshippers to eat snakes, rats, hair, clothes or grass could be facing stiff regulation. There have been calls for better regulation of the media, government and even ngo's - but today, the South African Council of Churches is considering its own a code for pastors. The council is concerned about leaders who prey on the desperation of their congregants. In one incident, a pastor rode worshippers like horses to help bring them closer to God. Council's general secretary, Bishop Malusi Mpumlwana
PRASA has suspended some of its senior managers it accuses of breaking rank and speaking on instability in the organisation. The senior managers suspended are those who reportedly took part in yesterday's protest to reinstate former CEO Lucky Montana. PRASA Spokesperson, Sipho Sithole...
Section 27, the Treatment Action Campaign and Sonke Gender Justice are set to challenge the gold mining industries on workers health safety issues. The organisations just briefed the media this morning on what they say would be a historic court case against the gold mining sector. Section 27 Legal Representative John Stevens......
The Rand Water is set to approach the Labour Court in Johannesburg, tomorrow in an effort to try and stop SA Municipal Union from embarking on a strike at the water utility., the union said. Meanwhile, SAMWU says it will oppose the urgent interdict by the Rand Water. More than 4000, employees are said to participate in the indefinite strike for higher wages. This is despite them being classified as essential workers. Samwu's collective bargaining officer, Chumani Gqeke...
NPA Deputy Head Advocate Nomngcobo Jiba says the wrong media reports have affected her family badly.Meanwhile The perjury and fraud charges against Jiba have been withdrawn at the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court. The case is related to her decision to prosecute Head of KZN Hwaks Johan Booysen on charges of racketeering. Political Analyst Dr Somadoda Fikeni...
The SA Police Service has confirmed that commissioner Riah Phiyega sent an SMS to DA MP Dianne Kohler Barnard telling her she was proud to be black and could not be undone by the politician. Police spokesperson Solomon Makgale says the SMS was not meant for public distribution and was not intended as a threat. The SMS caused a stir in Parliament yesterday. Kohler Barnard says she finds it appalling that a police commissioner would choose to send her a personal message because she did her job. DA's Shadow Minister of Police, Dianne Kohler Barnard...
The working age population in South Africa has grown by 11-million and is expected to grow by another nine million in the next 50 years.This according to a report titled " Jobs and South Africa's Changing Demographics" by the World Bank. The report further adds that this presents the country with a window of demographic opportunity to increase economic growth. However, low levels of employment is hampering South Africa's ability to harness this opportunity. World Bank's lead Economist, Catriona Purfield...
People in the Chinese city of Tianjin whose homes were damaged by the huge explosions last week have staged protests to demand compensation from the government.
Aristotle spoke of three types of friendships: Those for utility, for pleasure and for good. Ruth First Fellow for 2015 - Sisonke Msimang - who argues that true friendship is a crucial factor of democracy will be delivering the annual Ruth First lecture tonight. At WITS Great Hall at 6pm, she will ask "Can whites and blacks be friends in the new South Africa?" Sisonke Msimang - Ruth First Fellow for 2015 - who delivers the Ruth First lecture at Wits Great hall at 6pm tonight
Violence has erupted in Walmer township in Port Elizabeth after residents took to the streets protesting over housing development. There were reports of a car being stoned in the area. Eastern Cape MEC for Human Settlements, Helen Sauls-August....
Government has informed education authorities that Mandarin will be taught in schools from January, amid claims of Chinese "imperialism" by Sadtu. Despite strong disapproval by influential teacher union Sadtu, the government is going ahead with plans to introduce Mandarin to public schools next year. Angie Motshekga's basic education department has issued a circular to national and provincial education authorities informing them the Chinese language will be taught in local public schools as of January 2016. Senior researcher Institute for Global Dialogue, Sanusha Naidu...
The People's Bank of China (PBOC) has for a third day in a row devalued its currency, putting financial markets on edge. The PBOC devalued the Yuan by 1-point-1 per cent today, bringing the currency to four year lows. Dimakatso Leshoro filed this reports
Deputy police minister Maggie Sotyu has led the nine provincial commissioners in apologising for a statement expressing support for national Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega. The various commissioners have aligned themselves with the apology. A board representing the nine provincial police commissioners was appearing before the portfolio Committee on Police. This follows the board's statement pledging its support for the National Commissioner of Police, General Riah Phiyega, saying she has turned the service around. And that the negative attitude against Phiyega is unfair. Dr Johan Burger who is a Senior Researcher at the Crime and Justice Programme for The Institute of Security Studies...
Schooling has been disrupted at the Roodepoort Primary School, West of Johannesburg. Following an incident last week, where the school's principal was petrol bombed. Meanwhile, Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has warned that he will close down the if there are further disruptions this week. For more on this we are now joined on the line by one of the parents, Benedetta Swart...
The DA is expected to open a police case for a R230 Million irregularly awarded tender in the Sekhukhune Municipality. The party says the municipality COO awarded 15 water tenders that have since been suspended. Provincial DA Leader in the Limpopo Province, Jacques Smalle......
Close to three thousand delegates are gathering at Irene south east of Pretoria for the ANC Women's League National Conference. The four-day conference will see the election of a new leadership, seven years after the current one was elected.A number of discussion documents will form the basis of debate on such topics as the socio-economic status of women, poverty, health, education and cultural practices. Political Analyst, Professor Susan Booysen...
Polokwane High Court has provisionally struck off the roll money laundering, racketeering and corruption charges against EFF leader Julius Malema.
It's bigger than Obama's trip to Africa, Nkandla's fire pool and MH370 - The biggest trending topic is bigger than the Bill Cosby scandal, Eskom's load shedding and is still making more waves online than Donald Trumps fake hair. In 2010, Twitter introduced "Trending Topics" on the Twitter front page, displaying hashtags that are rapidly becoming popular. Corporations have learnt that they can promote their brands from hijacking these hashtags. Dhashen Moodle spoke to Tonya Khoury - the managing director of media monitoring company ROi Africa. So what is the biggest trending story today?
A new National Liquor Policy proposal would make manufacturers, distributors and retailors of liquor liable for harm and damage caused by customers over the legal limit. The policy also suggests raising the drinking age from 18 to 21. Free Market Foundation's Leon Louw...
The Eastern Cape Education MEC, Mandla Makupula is meeting with the Northern Areas Education Forum in a bid to implement some of the decisions taken in a meeting on Sunday over the teacher shortage in the city's Northern Areas. The visit comes as the shutdown by parents of children to show their dissatisfaction, turned violent. Chairperson of the Northern Area Education Forum, Ronald Matthys....
What does it mean to be poor? The Afrobarometer asked this question to a sample across the African continent and nearly half responded that it was the 'lack of food'. Section 27 of the South African constitution grants us the right to have access to sufficient food and water. It's nice on paper - but what does this mean in reality? We're on the line to a researcher at the Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute in Johannesburg, Daniel Mclaren ..
Former Proteas cricket captain Clive Rice has died in a hospital in Cape Town. He was diagnosed with a brain tumour earlier this year. Brian Mulder in conversation with the cricket legend, Clive Rice, about his career and especially his decision to play for Natal this season. Dhashen Moodley spoke to Janet Whitton & Peter Kirsten Former cricketer and now SABC commentator....
Over the past few weeks, the minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane visited communities affected by the current drought and who have been put on the water rationing programme. This in an effort to raise awareness on the drought as well as issues related to water conservation and water demand management. Three municipalities in KZN and Bloemfontein are among major cities that are water shedding. Could we see more protests over water? Dhashen Moodley spoke to; Dr Anthony Turton , a trained scientist specializing in water resource management and Mlimandlela Ndamase who is the spokesperson for the minister of Water and Sanitation, Nomvula Mokonyane...
Earlier there was a stand-off between police and residents of Northern Areas in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. This as a protest by parents of learners at schools in the area, turns violent. They are protesting over a report by the provincial Education Department which accuses some schools in the area of not submitting the documents of 122 teachers' posts available in Port Elizabeth. Dhashen Moodley spoke to: Our reporter, Mcebisi Ngqina and Spokesperson of the Eastern Cape Department of Education, Loyiso Pulumani...
What can Barack Obama do to improve peace and security, energy and entrepreneurship on the African continent? These are some of the big tasks that lie ahead for the US President as Air Force One prepares to land in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi this afternoon. There's also one wish from his grandmother. Travelling with the White House Press Corps Dinesh Sharma, interviewed Mama Sarah at the Obama ancestral home in Kogelo village.....
Its been less than two weeks since Cosatu had concluded their special congress, which was marred by issues such as the expulsion on NUMSA. Yesterday, the National Union of Metalworkers of SA (NUMSA) announced that it has decided to establish a new federation. This comes after a struggle by the union to reclaim COSATU, and failure by its affiliates to win a fight to bring it back into the labour federation. Meanwhile, the president of Cosatu, Sdumo Dlamini says the decision by NUMSA to form a new labour federation comes as no surprise. Labour Analyst and columnist at Fin24 and City Press, Terry Bell and Cosatu's Acting Spokesperson, Norman Mampane...
The Municipal Demarcation board says the cut-off date for those who want to submit their objections regarding changes in municipal boundaries is the 6th of next month. The Vhavenda King Tony Mphephu Ramabulana, the Municipal Demarcation Board and some traditional leaders met yesterday to discuss the grievances over plans to merge the two areas to form a new municipality. VhaVenda Traditional Leader Chief Masia.......
There are three times as many men than women in top management positions in South Africa. The 2015 employment equity report - released a short while ago - highlights the need for significant interventions for women to break the ceiling to reach just 30-percent representation any time soon. Labour Department's chief director for labour relations, Thembinkosi Mkhaliphi...
South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) says it is disappointed by Parliament's Ad hoc committee on Nkandla decision to grant the media ONLY limited access to President Zuma's residence. Meanwhile, Members of the Parliamentary Ad hoc Committee on Nkandla arrived at the President's home in northern KwaZulu-Natal a short while ago. They'll be conducting an assessment of the security upgrades. Democratic Alliance's Chief Whip John Steenhuizen....
Women's advocacy groups; Oxfam, Her Rights Initiative and Women's legal Centre are meeting in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal to discuss the forced sterilisation of women who are HIV positive. Earlier this year the three advocacy groups lodged a complaint with the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) protesting the "ongoing forced/coerced sterilisation of women living with HIV.Thembiso Mthembu, Researcher at Her Right Initiative...
Putting someone who is HIV positive on the anti-retroviral therapy (ART) early in their HIV infection could help reduce the risk of sexual transmission of HIV to their uninfected partners.THis according to a Researcher who conducted a study known as HPTN 052.This could also lead to a longer time without that person being having diseases such as tuberculosis and pneumonia. Deputy director of CHRU Clinical HIV Research Unit at Wits University, Dr Francesca Conradie...
Employees who are members of the Communications Workers' Union at MTN are expected to resume work today. This after a two-month strike. The union reached an agreement with management of the mobile telecommunications firm last week. The agreement will see permanent contracts and other benefits for workers. It says MTN management has given the assurance that there will be no job cuts following the strike. CWU General Secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala.....
Peace talks called to solve the Burundi political crisis have been called off following a boycott by the Burundi government. The political crisis follows President Pierre Nkurunziza's decision to run for a third term during tomorrow's Presidential polls. The opposition says the decision is unconstitutional and has vowed to boycott the polls. Uganda's Defence Minister, Crispus Kiyonga, says talks will resume once the Burundi government gets representatives to attend the talks. Our reporter Sarah Kimani...
Senegal will put the former dictator of Chad on trial for war crimes today. It's been a long 25 year battle for the victims of Hissene Habre who will finally watch him answer to his accusers at the Extraordinary African Chambers in Senegal. This is the first time in history that one African country prosecutes the leader of another country.Geraldine Mattioli-Zeltner, Advocacy Director in the International Justice Program at Human Rights Watch...
The Railway Safety Regulator's (RSR) will today release a preliminary investigation report into the cause of Fridays train collision at Booysens, south of Johannesburg. Meanwhile, Metrorail has confirmed that operations on the route between Booysens and Crown station have resumed following the collision. A problem with the signalling equipment is suspected to have caused the crash, more than 200 people were injured. Railway Safety Regulator CEO Nkululeko Poya...
The Passenger Railway Agency of South Africa has cancelled its media briefing to clarify the sacking of CEO Lucky Montana. Prasa says after much consultation with the board and the minister of Transport they've decided to cancel the press conference scheduled for today. PRASA Group Chief Strategy Officer, Sipho Sithole.....
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged local businesses to export locally beneficiated goods to China. Ramaphosa was addressing the South Africa-China Business Forum held in Beijing. SABC Business Anchor Francis Herd about the business meetings between SA and China...
Several ministers and top intelligence officials are visiting Yemen's war-torn southerncity of Aden. The UN has estimated that more than 3,500 people have been killed in the air strikes and fighting between Saudi-backed Yemeni fighters and the Houthis. MSF South Africa's Humanitarian Affairs Advisor, Jens Pederson......
The MTN strike is now two months old and still with no solution to the impasse with the union in sight. However newly-appointed MTN CEO Mteto Nyati has vowed to resolve the company's prolonged strike. Executive: CWU General Secretary Aubrey Tshabalala & Group Corporate Affairs at MTN Group, Chris Maroleng...
Only one more day is left until SAfm unveils our Nelson Mandela project. We have proudly sponsored with Gift of the Givers, Nedbank, Builders, Allianz and Mercedes Benz East Rand Mall to assist a worthy project in Bodibe Village in the North West province. A retired teacher wanted to reach out to the sick and elderly, who often go to sleep on an empty stomach. We embarked on this project 5 months ago, and have seen the generosity of people as we build a dining hall for a soup kitchen, sink a borehole and start a veggie garden. Ali Sayed from the Gift of the Givers...
The Freedom Front Plus says it has information about the South Africans detained in China were arrested for suspected espionage, FF-Plus chairperson Pieter Groenewald says the information they have is that advanced technological equipment - able to spy on computer data and servers - was found with some of the individuals in the tour group that included the South Africans. The Gift of the Givers group says five of the ten South Africans arrested in China last week are expected home tomorrow, while the other five are still being held. Chairperson of the Freedom Front Plus, Dr Pieter Groenewald...
The community around the Ventersdorp municipality are opposing the amalgamation of their municipality with that of Tlokwe in Potchefstroom. They argue that the decision was imposed on them as they were not consulted. The Demarcation Board has been to re-determine boundaries of some municipalities in eight provinces, this after receiving the proposals from the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs for the board to merge municipalities that were not financially viable on their own. Spokesperson for the Community of Ventersdorp, Khuduga Dive...
Six more members of a group of foreigners detained in Mongolia, including South Africans, have reportedly been released. British diplomats in the Chinese capital, Beijing, say six British citizens in the group have been deported.The were part of a 20-strong tour group detained by Chinese officials whilst on a planned 47-day trip to explore the country. Gift of the Givers Founder Dr Imtiaz Sooliman.....
The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) is marching in Pretoria against the Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters. SATAWU is demanding that Peters resigns from her position, citing that the department is failing under her leadership. Meanwhile, COSATU in the Western Cape says it will oppose an interdict from management of the Huguenot Tunnel near Paarl prohibiting them from protesting in the area. This after, a strike by COSATU in solidarity with SATAWU over wage increases was cancelled. SATAWU's General Secretary, Zenzo Mahlangu...
The Gauteng government has denied reaching an agreement with the National Taxi Alliance regarding the release of more than 50 impounded taxis. However, Transport MEC Ismail Vadi has confirmed that taxi operators will meet with Gauteng Premier David Makhura this afternoon to discuss the way forward. Gauteng Community Safety MEC Spokesperson, Thapelo Moiloa...
Today's theme is on birthdays. Inventor and futurist Nikola Tesla was born around midnight on July 10 in 1856. He would be the first person to publicly imagine a world where people carried around a small instrument in their pockets to see distant events. Nikola Tesla, electrical inventor, predicted the mobile phone in 1926. Today, 159 years after his birth, South African billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk named his company after Tesla. Free Market Foundation's Leon Louw ...
How do these policies around sugar, salt and tobacco - affect the health of the economy?Economist from Grain SA Wandile Sihlobo help us to understand these issues .
speaking to us Health Minister Dr Aron Motsoaledi says it might be difficult for the public to deal with diet and lack of excersise.
Dr. Mary Bassett has worked in public health for more than 30 years. Speaking to us during her visit to Cape Town, Dr Bassett contends, that the power rests with nations and not people to improve their health.
The Western Cape High Court has ruled that sections of the Magistrate's Court Act, that allows the clerk of the court, to issue garnishee orders, is unconstitutional. We speak to Lynne Arendse who was at court.
The JSE has tumbled following the dramatic sell-off in China's main stock market. Atleast 500 listed firms said they would stop trading their shares in an effort to insulate themselves from the meltdown.We speak economist Sanusha Naidoo on what impact it has on South African markets.
The agreement between taxi operators in Mamelodi, Pretoria and the City of Tshwane hangs in the balance as police continue to impound taxis which are not roadworthy in the area.Southern African Bus Operators Association (SABOA) CEO, Eric Cornelius speaks to us about the agreement
The Somalia-based militant group, al-Shabaab, says it carried out an attack in Mandera county in north eastern Kenya in which at least 14 people were killed. Eleven others were wounded in the overnight attack.Our reporter Sarah Kimane reports that eleven others were wounded in the overnight attack
Government says South Africa will benefit immensely from the Brics new development bank. We speak to our reporter Ntebo Mokobo in Moscow, Russia
With 61% of Greeks voting against austerity measures, in return for a new debt deal from ECB, the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund. Midday Live hos Dhashen Moodley speaks to SABC reporter Jack Parrock who has been covering the Greek referendum as well as with a South African living in Greece, Eugene Redelinhuis
Police in Mamelodi, north-east of Pretoria, have impounded dozens of minibus taxis in a bid to halt violence against a new bus operator. Traffic on Tsamaya Road came to a halt as police conducted searches. Violence broke out in the area last week after minibus taxi operators tried to stop commuters from using the Autopax buses which replaced the PUTCO service. One bus driver was shot, several commuters wounded and many buses damaged. We speak to a Member of the Mamelodi Amalgamated Taxi Association, Phuti Tlhwaele.
The Battle of Stalingrad marked a decisive Russian victory during World War II against Nazi Germany. With the message "not a step back!" ringing in their ears, the red army forced Hitler's retreat from Russia. By fighting for every building in the southern Russian city of Stalingrad, they refused to give away any ground and delayed an advancing German army. Today, the Former Intelligence Minister Ronnie Kasrils has accused President Zuma of employing the Stalingrad technique. This after the NPA placed a target on him, in their heads of argument. They accuse Kasrils of meeting with Scorpions Boss Leonard McCarthy. The NPA claims McCarthy delayed charging Zuma until after Polokwane to help Thabo Mbeki win the ANC leadership. Former intelligence minister, Ronnie Kasrils...
Gauteng motorists will be charged an etoll regardless of whether they own an e-tag. Roads agency SANRAL says the first two major changes have taken effect today. The Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance has described the Deputy President's latest announcement of a New Dispensation on e-tolling as a New Desperation. OUTA's Chairperson Wayne Duvenage says SANRAL's sixth attempt at an etolling system will fail yet again...
Meanwhile, while we talk about efficient collections by SARS - How efficient is NSFAS? A staggering 9-point-5bn is spent on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. But they're only collecting around 500million. According to our next guest, NSFAS failed to collect R4 billion rand last year which could have paid for more student fees. Chris Hoek (Herk) is a Senior consultant at pan african investment and research services...
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has launched the 2015 Tax Season. Since the commencement of Tax Season 12 hours ago, taxpayers could officially commence completing and submitting their 2015 tax returns. Tax Season has grown into an important partnership between government and taxpayers who make a vital contribution to our country's tax system. SARS Commissioner, Tom Moyane...
Mamelodi taxi owners representatives and the Tshwane Mayor as well as Autopax are meeting to resolve the current bus crisis in the area. Autopax, a subsidiary of Prasa, was supposed to take over the routes from Mamelodi to Laudium, Pretoria Central, Centurion and Pretoria East. Putco stopped with the routes saying the subsidies they receive from Government is not enough to make the routes profitable. They allegedly lost up to about 6 million rand a month on the Mamelodi routes. City of Tshwane Acting Spokesperson, Lebo Matji...
Eurozone finance ministers held an emergency session last night to consider Greek's new two-year 29.1billion euro aid deal from a bailout mechanism. There were no signs that the last-minute Greek proposal would be accepted. Greece Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras asked the other nations that use the euro to extend another bailout and buy Athens time to renegotiate its crippling debt load. Lecturer at Wits University and an Economics consultant, Dr Peter Karungu...
LIELA MAGNUS-Mamelodi taxi owners representatives and the Tshwane Mayor as well as Autopax are meeting to resolve the current bus crisis in the area. Autopax, a subsidiary of Prasa, was supposed to take over the routes from Mamelodi to Laudium,
It's that time of year again when economists tell you to tighten your belt. And their simple message is this: There are tough times ahead for consumers as living costs rise and disposable income drops. The price of petrol goes up by 44 cents a litre from midnight tonight. At the same time electricity tariffs are expected to increase by just over 14 percent tomorrow for municipal customers. Reports and climate data suggest that South Africa is experiencing its worst drought since 1992. Grain SA's Economist Wandile Sihlobo...
The biggest bus operator in the country Putco, has cancelled its services in several parts Gauteng. Putco says the contracts they had with the Department of Roads and Transport in Gauteng are no longer financially viable. Areas which will be affected are Mamelodi, Meyerton, Kathorus, Johannesburg, Germiston, Sebokeng and Orange Farm. PUTCO Spokesperson, Tshepo Tsotsotso...
Brits residents are marching to Madibeng municipality offices to hand over a memorandum of complaints over poor serivce delivery. They accuse the provincial government of reneging in its promises to have the water crisis in the area resolved. During the previous violent protests he apparently promised the community the water problem will be resolved in six weeks. UDF National Oficer and Community Leader, Tebogo Malema.......
The Burundian government remains unlikely to postpone elections till the end of July. This is goes against the demands from African nations and the United nations - who are have repeated called for dialogue to ease the crisis in the region. A dispute over Burundi's president's bid for a third term in office forced a group of 17 opposition parties to boycott parliamentary elections as voting stations opening this morning. Our correspondent in Bujumbura, Bernard Bangurira a producer for Radio Esanga ....
Mineworker unions NUM and AMCU have come under severe criticism for failing to prevent their members from fuelling violence that led to the August 2012 Marikana tragedy. In the days before the police shootings on 11 August, ten people including police officers and security guards were murdered. The Commission found that AMCU officials did not exercise effective control over its members and supporters. AMCU'S President Joseph Mathunjwa, CEO of Lonmin, Ben Magara & Head of the Governance, Crime and Justice Division at the Institute for Security Studies Garath Newham...
Cosatu's public sector unions have signed a new three-year wage deal with government. The new agreement gives the workers the 7% wage increase initially agreed and reneged on by government.The decision followed negotiations that started last night and lasted until the early hours of the morning. NEHAWU's Deputy President, Michael Shingange & Chairperson of the Independent Labour Caucus, Basil Manuel...
A UN report has allegedly revealed that on United Nations peacekeeping missions are the world's worst military sexual predators. The report allegedly shows that South Africa is top of the list of offending nations, despite not being the biggest contributor of troops to missions. Gender Links Media and Communications Manager, Katherine Robinson......
South Africa's current account deficit has gone down to four-point-eight per cent of Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2015 from five-point-one per cent in the last quarter of 2014 - while spending grew by 3.4 per cent despite the sluggish economic growth. Dimakatso Leshoro reports....
Lawyers for Human Rights launch a high court challenge against the manner in which Operation Fiela-Reclaim is being conducted across the country. Following xenophobic attacks, President Zuma appointed a team to deal with issues of migration. The committee responded by instituting operation Fiela to restore law and order. Lawyers for Human Rights want this practice done within the confines of the law. Operation Fiela has seen foreigners targetted and arrested in their homes in the early hours by police and military officials supported by immigration officers from home affairs. Patricia Erasmus, head of Lawyers for Human Rights' Refugee and Migrant Rights Programme...
Eskom has lowered its tariff hike request to nine-point-five per cent from 12-point-seven per cent. That's according to, acting Chief Executive Brian Molefe. He was speaking at Nasrec in Johannesburg at a public hearing held by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa discuss the power utility's latest tariff increase request. Nersa Head of Communications, Charles Hlebela......
Shares in South African gold mining companies dropped in early trade, as investors braced themselves for the start of what could be tough wage negotiations. The talks, come at a time when the industry is grappling with depressed prices, falling production and rising costs. Meanwhile, the National Union of Mineworkers says it is up to the Chamber of Mines to give mineworkers a wage increase in line with the costly standard of living. NUM is demanding up to 10-thousand-500 rand for its lowest paid members and AMCU wants 12 thousand-500-rand. Free Market Foundation economist Loane Sharp...
Analysts say the protracted MTN strike, over wage hikes and bonus payouts will likely damage the credibility of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) in the eyes of some of the biggest employers in the telecommunications sector. This as the strike at one of South Africa's biggest mobile operator enters its forth week. CWU has since accused the company of not wanting to meet with them, with MTN opting for an independent arbitration. MTN South Africa's Chief Human Resources Officer, Themba Nyathi...
Just a month after National Prosecutions head Mxolisi Nxasana resigned his position, he has been replaced by Adv Shaun Kevin Abrahams, a senior state advocate in the NPA's Priority Crimes Litigation Unit. In a statment today the Presidency announced the appointment with immediate effect expressing confidence that Abrahams will be able to enhance the efficiency of the National Prosecuting Authority
As the strike action by the Communication Workers Union (CWU) at MTN enters its forth week, the union is gearing up for a mass strike action within the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. CWU president, Clyde Mervin says they've already served notices on Telkom and Sentech. CWU National Organiser, Tshepo Matlou...
Equal Education has slammed Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi for not honouring his deadline to sort out sanitation mess at 200 Gauteng schools, but Lesufi has denied the claims. Equal Education National Spokesperson Nombulelo Nyathela.....
Economists say inflation rate will continue to rise and this will put more pressure on consumers. This as the headline consumer inflation rate for the May rises to four-point-six per cent year-on-year, from four-point-five percent in April. economist from Nedbank, Busisiwe Radebe...
Government has missed the deadline to migrate from analogue to digital broadcasting today.The Communications ministry has expressed hope that South Africans will still be able to watch television.For more on this we are joined on the line by Programme head of digital terrestrial television Solly Mokoetle....
The Competition Commission has launched a second inquiry into the formal retail sector by expanding it to include the informal sector. The four major supermarket groups, foreign and local shop owners will be under the microscope. spokesperson for the Competition Commission Mava Scott...
The SABC can confirm that Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir has now left the country. Bashir is at the centre of a legal battle between the Southern African Litigation Centre and government. SALC wanted the court for force government to arrest Bashir on the warrant of Arrests issued by the International Criminal Court. SABC Foreign Desk Editor, Sophie Mokoena...
On our person i am slot this week, producer Sithakazelo Dlaminin, spoke to Kelly Bobbins, winner of the Green Talents competition. Bobbins has just returned from a research tour in Germany and she talks about her experience.
More than 4 billion people around the world are now using mobile phones. Experts are now concerned about a condition known as "text neck". Although it is relatively new to south africa, medical experts are seeing an increase in the condition. Richard Andrews, managing director of Inspiration office on ways to alleviate and avoid text neck.....
Despite recent calls for the head of the MEC in the department of health in the free state, the province claims that since MEC, Dr Benjamin Malakoane took over in 2013, the systems implemented have yielded results. Earlier, TAC and section 27 claimed that the province had a shortage of ARVs. Health MEC in the Free State, Dr Benjamin malakoane. ..
At a recent Security Summit on Cyber Crime, it was revealed that South Africa is the most attacked country on the African continent. Although the problem is acute in the country, it is not widely reported. One of the major ways is the theft of personal identities. This costs in excess of three-billion-rand per annum. Director of the Centre for Cyber Security at the University of Johannesburg, Professor Basie Von Solms...
Organised Public Service Unions have announced their official withdrawal from the public service wage agreement with government. The unions have taken a decision to suspend their participation in all collective bargaining processes in the PSCBC and other sectors until the dispute over the implementation of 6.4% instead of the agreed 7% salary increase is resolved. Government Negotiator on the Public Service Wage Agreement, Brett Simon.....
The World Bank in conjunction with the National Treasury has released a report titled "Doing Business in South Africa 2015", the report is first of its kind that compares business regulations affecting domestic firms in all eight metropolitan in the country. It looks at a number of constructive practices that can be better leveraged within the country to improve the business climate for local entrepreneurs and companies. Private Sector Development Specialist, World Bank Group and Co-Author of the report, Trimor Mici...
The UN says its special envoy to the great lakes region in East Africa will no longer mediate in the conflict in Burundi. A spokesperson for the UN says, Said Djinnit has stepped down as mediator in the Burundi crisis - a demand of those opposed to the President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial bid for a third-term bid. His announcement has sparked weeks of protests in Burundi. Activist in the Burundi Girls and women's movement and poet Ketty Nivyabandi....
Border safe guarding operations are going to be tightened by the South African National Defence Force. SANDF have revealed plans to enhance efforts support state agencies in the fight against Xenophobia amongst other things. South African National Defence Force's Lieutenant General Vusi Masondo.....
As part of youth month we speak to Dr Anjo Theron. She completed her PhD on biochemical aspects of TB at the University of Stellenbosch. She is currently a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the CSIR. Her research has been presented at local and international conferences, and has been published in a number of journals. Post-Doctoral Researcher in the Biomedical Technology research group in Biosciences at CSIR Dr Anjo Theron ...
In an exclusive interview with SABC Radio, Schabir Shaik has denied that he threatened a News24 journalist over the phone, by saying that his health has improved enough to be able to headbutt the journalist, and kick him in the genitals. Shaik however has confirmed that his health has indeed improved since he was released in 2009 on medical parole due to his suffering from life-threatening hypertension. Shaik also confirmed that he wanted his medical parole turned into ordinary parole because he wants to travel so that he can make a living again, something he says he hasn't done in close to a decade...
The United Nations has proclaimed 21 June as the International Day of Yoga. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word 'yoga' derives from Sanskrit and symbolises the union of body and consciousness. Randhir Jaiswal is the Consul General of India...
More than 2 million hours of free legal services were offered by lawyers around the world in 2014. The Trust Law Index surveyed 49,000 lawyers working at the 141 firms in 77 countries and found that they clocked on average 43 hours of pro bono each. Nicholas Glicher, Legal Director at Thomson Reuters Foundation...
The bidding process for the 2026 World Cup has been postponed amid allegations around the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. This follows an investigation by the Swiss prosecutors into alleged financial irregularities around the awarding of the events to Russia and Qatar respectively. Meanwhile, FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke has told the media that there is nothing wrong with the transfer of the 120 million rand at the centre of allegations that South Africa won the right to host the 2010 world cup through bribery. FIFA's Secretary General, Jerome Valcke...
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) says its all system go for their 8th National Congress. The union has officially launched its Discussion Documents, ahead of the congress. POPCRU also addressed the members of the media about the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder that's plaguing the police, among other issues. POPCRU's Spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo....
Calls are growing in Trindad and Tobago for Jack Warner to face the music, as the FIFA scandal rocks the small Carribean territory. Warner is a the leader of an opposition political party, but he's becoming increasingly isolated, as details of his alleged bribery start to emerge. Janet Whitton reports...
The Department of Basic Education says those who wrote matric before 2007 and want to continue studying towards a National Senior Certificate, will be required to do so according to the current curriculum. The department's Spokesperson Elijah Mahlangu says this is to ensure that the old certificate complies with the current matric certificate. Spokesperson for the department of Basic Education, Elijah Mhlanga...
This year's World Environment Day in being celebrated under the theme "Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care". The theme, which was declared by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is centred on the well-being of humanity, the environment and the functioning of the economy. World Environment Day is aimed at creating worldwide awareness and action for the environment. Head of the United Nations Environment Programme in South Africa, Cecelia Kinuthia-Njenga...
Senegalese musician Akon is better known as the Smack That artist. But now he wants to help 600 million people on the African continent get connected to the power grid. Akon's lighting up Africa intitiative is an academy to teach and develop a new generation of African born entrepreneurs. I began by asking a fellow Senegalese and World Bank Africa Vice President Makhtar Diop - How much of an energy increase do we need on the continent? World Bank Vice President of the Africa region Makhtar Diopa....
The high cost of cross-border payments is one of the challenges many small businesses on the continent are facing. It is among the concerns that business has raised at the World Economic Forum on Africa in Cape Town. It's called on lawmakers and banks to address the high cost of exchanging African currencies in order to transact. Managing director of Goldman Sachs' South Africa, Colin Coleman recently asked "How do you create a balance of domestic interests in Africa and the interests of globalization? Director of Capital Markets, JLL Sub-Sarahan Africa, Anthony Lewis...
Former FIFA vice-president, Jack Warner, has strongly denied allegations that South Africa paid him a bribe of 10-million dollars to secure the right to host the 2010 World Cup. Warner is one of 14 FIFA officials and marketing executives charged by the US Department of Justice with running a criminal enterprise that involved more than 150-million dollars in bribes. The Hawks, meanwhile, have confirmed that they will conduct a preliminary investigation into the bribery allegations after receiving information on the matter from the Freedom Front Plus. FF Plus Parliamentary Spokesperson Advocate Anton Alberts...
Amnesty International says the Nigerian military, including senior officers, must be investigated for their alleged involvement in the death of more than eight-thousand people in the fight against Boko Haram militants. The group says it wants them tried for war crimes. Noel Kututwa - Deputy Director for Amnesty International in Southern Africa...
Following the release of the Local Government Audit Outcomes for the financial year 2013/2014 by the Audirot General, Kimi Makwetu, the minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Pravin Gordhan highlighted that the under-performing municipalities could leadership changes. This after the AG found that financial controls in reporting remain poor in the Free State, Limpopo and North West, where not a single clean audit was achieved. Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Deputy Minister Andries Nel ...
According to the World Health Organisation, this confirms that air pollution is now the world's largest single environmental health risk. How does the eighth World Health Assembly in Geneva plan to deal with it this week? Rico Euripidou - Environmental health campaigner at Groundwork - an environmental justice organisation....
Today, a dozen leading health organisations in South Africa have joined the Fix the Patent Laws campaign. They're pushing for reform of the country's current patent laws that severely restrict access to affordable medicines in South Africa. Together, they call on the government to urgently finalise a National Policy on Intellectual Property that champions measures to reduce prices of a wide range of medicines. TAC's Lotti Rutter...
Former President Thabo Mbeki's office says it is not surprised that those who thought Africa would never stage a successful event like the 2010 Soccer World Cup, have made all sorts of allegations against South Africa. It's been alleged that government paid 10 million US dollars to secure the bid. Several Fifa executives and businessmen have been arrested on accusations of corruption.a Mbeki's spokesperson Mokoni Ratshitanga says the successful staging of the 2010 World Cup did not sit well with countries and individuals who have certain stereotypes against Africa.
The FW de Klerk Foundation says it is no surprise that the Minister of Police, Nkosinathi Nhleko, has release a report that whitewashes the expenditure of R246 million on President Jacob Zuma's home in Nkandla. The foundation says it's unacceptable in a democracy for the State to spend a vast amount of public money on the private home of a political office bearer. Director of the Foundation's Centre for Constitutional Rights, Advocate Johan Kruger...
Judge Selby Baqwa has ruled that Clive Derby-Lewis be released on parole. Derby Lewis approached the High Court in Pretoria to review the Minister of Justice's decision to refuse him release on medical parole. Derby-Lewis is convicted of killing SACP leader, Chris Hani in April 1993. He suffers from lung cancer, has prostate and skin cancer and suffers from high blood pressure. Department of Justice and Correctional Services Spokesperson, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga & Clive Derby Lewis' Wife, Gaye...
Today marks World Play Day. It is estmated that over 70% of children below the age of six in South Africa do not access any form of structured early childhood learning in the townships and rural areas . This year's theme is play is fun. Cotland CEO Jackie Schoeman...
As a new era dawns for Nigeria, the challanges the country faces are very much in evidence. Africa's most populous country is in the grip of a fuel crisis that is taking some time to ease. There are mixed emotions on the streets as citizens endure hours of sitting in queues while at the same time expressing optimism that General Muhammadu Buhari's dispensation will resolve this and many other problems in the near future. President Jacob Zuma is amongst other heads of state scheduled to attend Buhari's inauguration on Friday. Adetunji Omotolo - a Nigerian socio-political commentator and Founder of the Guild of Nigerian Professionals in South Africa...
Professor Peter Alexander, South African Research Chair in Social Change at the University of Johannesburg says the public protest statistics for 2012/13 financial year, released then Minister of Police Nathi Mthethwa are misread. Prof Alexander further added that these so called protests figures are misleading as they are not reflective of what happen during the said period. For more on this we are now joined on the line by PDr Carin Runciman, a post-doctoral fellow in social change at the University of Johannesburg...
As country celebrates Child Protection Week, The Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Childrenre says its concerned about the alarming and increasing levels of violence against children in the South Africa. The centre's Director Shaheema Mcleod says awareness campaigns are not enough; more needs to be done to protect children. Shaheema Director of the Saartie Baartman centre for Women and Children....
Six high-ranking soccer officials, including two vice-presidents of world governing-body FIFA, have been arrested by Swiss police today. They have been detained pending extradition to the United States where investigators suspect them of receiving or paying bribes totalling millions of dollars. The investigations into racketeering, wire fraud and money laundering date back to the early 1990s until today. Just minutes ago, from the Home of Fifa in Zurich, FIFA's Director of Communications and Public Affairs Walter De Gregorio had to face tough questions from the media...Deputy Sports Editor Janet Whitton...
South Africa's economy grew by 1.3 per cent in the first quarter of 2015. This is below market expectations of 1.6 per cent. The slow growth is a result of significant drops in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Nicky Weimer an economist with Nedbank says drops in these sectors were expected. She says South Africa's battle to keep the lights, has had a big impact on growth. Executive Manager: National Accounts at Stats SA, Gerhardt Bouwer...
FEDSAS, Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools, has gone to court to demand proof that the Gauteng Education Department does not have a deliberate strategy to phase out Afrikaans single-medium schools. The High Court in Johannesburg will hear an urgent application today brought by FEDSAS. This follows the department's recent announcement to convert 124 schools from single-medium to parallel-medium schools. A leaked list of the schools revealed that the plan involved mostly Afrikaans single-medium schools. Professor Mbulungeni Madiba, the Chairperson of the Pan South African Language Board...
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says there is no shortage in supply of AIDS drugs. He accuses the media, ngo and patients of making wild claims which are found to be baseless and untrue upon investigation. The Minister was reacting to sensational media reports which claimed drug stocks had run out in parts of the country. South Africa runs one of the biggest HIV programmes in the world, treating 3 million people in the country.... Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi & Bella Hwang, from the Stop Stock Outs Project...
MTN has continued to face numerous challenges this month. The local mobile company is facing strike action from its staff over pay and bonuses. Some call centres in Limpopo and Gauteng have remained closed as the strike enters its second week. In addition to the strike MTN is also facing challenges in its biggest market- Nigeria. The cell phone operators also closed its e-billing portal after security flaws. MTN SA's Chief Executive for Human Resources, Themba Nyathi...
Learning and teaching has been disrupted and some residents have not been able to got work, following a protest action by the community of Mshadza between White River and Hazyview in Mpumalanga. The residents took to the streets in protest against the Kamasoyi police station citing that its failing to deal with criminal activities taking place in their village, community members allege that several cases of rape incidents and house breaking have been reported but the police are not acting. One of the residents of Mshadza, Jessica Banda....
AU Chairperson Dr Nkosazana Dlamini- Zuma says the youth should play a role in curbing violence in the continent. Dlamini -Zuma has also called on the youth to challenge Patriarchy. Francine Muyuma, President of the Pan African Youth Union...
The Communications Workers Union is meeting with MTN in a bid to end a strike that has grounded its headquarters in Durban to a halt. Better working conditions and salary increases are some of the things workers are demanding from the cellular network giant. CWU National Organiser, Tshepo Matlou......
The man accused of killing three-year-old Reiger park toddler Cuburne van Wyk has been found guilty In the High Court sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court in Ekurhuleni. Nathaniel Katlego Mpoku has been found guilty of the kidnapping and murder of 3-year old Cuburne at an informal settlement in Reiger Park, Ekurhuleni. The child's body was found on a mine dump in August last year soon after he went missing. Father of Cuburne Elroy Pieterson...
The Pan African Parliament has expressed concern about the impact of illicit financial outflows in Africa on development and economic recovery. Former President Thabo Mbeki says over the last 50 years Africa has lost trillion dollars in illicit outflows....Former South African President, Thabo Mbeki & Dr Phenyo Botale leader of the Botswana delegation to PAP...
The Pan African Parliament is today debating the issue of peace and stability in the continent.The PAP has also called on all the leaders in the troubled Burundi to engage in genuine dialogue and consensus that will lead to peace. Senator of Nigeria's All Progressives Congress (APC)Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman..
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcu) is calling for an immediate suspension of Advocate Gerrie Nel. This follows allegations that Nel purchased a R900 000 bugging equipment which was later installed secretly at the offices of the NPA. Popcru's spokesperson Richard Mamabolo....
Power utility- Eskom says it has agreed to amicably part ways with its former CEO, Tshediso Matona... Matona and three other executives were suspended in March pending an inquiry into operations at the struggling utility. In a statement Eskom was quoted as saying no misconduct or wrongdoing is alleged by the utility against the outgoing CEO. Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
According to the research findings by the Director of the Academic Development Centre at the University of Johannesburg, Dr Andre van Zyl; between 50% and 60% of students will dropout from university without a qualification and many do so at first year level. In 2013, the department of Higher Education and Training released a report that indicated that graduation rate among undergraduate students in South Africa's in all 23 public universities was standing at 15 percent. Director of the Academic Development Centre at the University of Johannesburg, Dr Andre van Zyl...
The Pan African Parliament has tabled it's activity report in Midrand Gallgher Estate.The report is for OCTOBER 2014 to May 2015.Meanwhile Pap has called on leaders in Burundi to engage in genuine dialogue . Innocent Nkurunziza, member of the Burundi Senate...
It has been reported that some of the workers at Eskom's Medupi power station in Lephalale, Limpopo have been denied access to the site despite their decision to return to work unconditionally. Workers affiliated to the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) went on a strike in March, demanding ten thousand rand in bonuses amongst others. NUMSA's local secretary, Mashome Mabulane says workers are ready to return to work even though the employer has not yet met their demands. NUMSA's local Secretary, Mashome Mabulane and Eskom's spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe....
The South African Municipal Workers Union has blamed negligence and shortage of equipment within Johannesburg's Emergency Services for the death of two firefighters over the weekend. The two died after they were trapped in the basement of a burning building in the Johannesburg CBD. Deputy Secretary of SAMWU in Johannesburg, Paul Thlabang....
The National Advisory Council of Innovation (NACI),has presented the 2014 South African Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) report. This annual publication outlines the performance of South Africa's innovation and its impact on the economy.For more on this we are joined on the kine by Dr Azar Jammine, a member of the National Advisory Council of Innovation (NACI)...
Earth Life is leading a march to the French consulate in protest over coal mining in South Africa. The organisation is demanding that the French government and companies stop supporting dirty coal mining in the country. Earth Life Project Coordinator, Tristen Taylor.......
The streets of Bujumura, Burundi seem to be calm following the arrests of the three leaders of a failed coup against the country's President Pierre Nkurunziza. The coup leader says he and his followers had turned themselves in and that he hoped they will not be killed. Meanwhile, President Nkurunziza is expected to make a national address today. His official spokesperson has confirmed that the president will campaign for a third term in office in the elections.
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has decided to review the operating licence of the Curro Roodeplaat Foundation School. This follows the findings indicating that pupils at the school in Pretoria were separated on the basis of race. The school made headlines in January after some parents complained that their children were being discriminated against. Lesufi says the school did not dispute the findings. Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi
Using methods seen in the popular TV show CSI - South Africa is using DNA evidence to track down the killers of rhinos. Last year more than 12-hundred rhinos were killed by poachers - one every eight hours. (Today, an elite anti-poaching task force captured a suspect poacher with 65 rhino horns and 300 elephant tasks. SANPARKS head of environmental crime investigations Kobus de Wet....
There has been reports that the gold sector should be bracing itself for a difficult round of wage talks, this as the industry wage negotiations are set to start soon. Today, the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (amcu) briefed media on their demands for wage increases for this year in the gold mining sector. Some of their key demands are; 12 500-rand for entry level and the review of the current Mineworkers Provident Fund. Mining Analyst, Peter Major...
The DA says the City of Tshwane has terminated a smart meter contract that has cost the municipality R830 Million. The party claims it warned the city of the excessive amount the smart meters will cost for intallations. DA Shadow MMC for Finance in Tshwane, Lex Middelberg & Selby Bokaba, Spokesperson for the City of Tshwane Municipality....
Eighty-nine-year-old anti-apartheid leader Ruth Mompati, who's died, was involved in the 1956 women's march against the pass laws and the 1990 Groote Schuur talks-about-talks to end apartheid. Under democracy, Mompati was a Member of Parliament, South Africa's ambassador to Switzerland and the mayor of Vryburg in the North-West. Christelle du Toit interviewed Mompati and compiled this obituary. Close family friend of the Ruth Mompati , ANC NEC member Maxs Sisulu....
The National Prosecuting Authority says the Lolly Jackson murder case has been struck from the court roll. This follows the death of their main suspect, George Louca, last night. He had alleged that Czech businessman, Radovan Krejcir, had actually pulled the trigger. Last month the Cypriot - who was suffering from stage four lung cancer filed a court application - to be released from custody. He wanted to go home and die near his family. Judge Geraldine Borchers found that there were no guarantees Louca would return for his trial in October. Louca's lawyer Owen Blumberg & Justice Department spokesperson Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga...
The European Union is considering using force against people smugglers on the Meditteranean. The union is currently facing a problem of illegal migrants crossing in numbers into Europe and some of them drowning in the ocean. Amnesty Internationals Libya Researcher, Magda Mughrabi......
The commission of inquiry into National Director of Public Prosecutions Mxolisi Nxasana's fitness to hold office has been terminated. Reports say it was terminated on the instructions of the Presidency. spokesperson of the Commission of the inquiry Andile Tshona...
The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, has ordered Cosatu to hold a Special National Congress in two months' time. The application was brought before the court by eight unions affiliated to the labour federation. They say a national congress will help return Cosatu to what they call its rightful owners. Meanwhile, the federations' president Sdumo Dlamini says the court challenge opportunistic and a waste of money. COSATU's President, Sdumo Dlamni...
The SABC's fifth new television channel - Encore - promises to bring a strong sense of nostalgia for South African audiences. Icons of days gone by, theme songs long forgotten but hardwired into your memory and classic dialogue that speaks to the times. SABC's Kaizer Kganyago...
The Red Cross in Burundi says one person has been killed and nine others injured today after demonstrations against the President's bid for a third term in office. President Pierre Nkurunziza's said in an speech on Wednesday that his next term would be his last if elected. This after the constitutional court cleared him to run for the Presidency in June. Freelance journalist in Bujumbura, Muhammed Yusuf...
Hearings into the scandal of matric learners who cheated in the exams in the Eastern Cape, is underway.They are appearing before district committees. Basic Education Department spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga....
Solidarity has announced it will lay a charge against the South African government with the United Nations. The charge is expected to be related to quotas and allegations of racism. Solidarity Head of Centre for fair Labour Practices, Advocate Dirk Groenewald......
Eskom says striking employees belonging to Contractors on the Medupi Power Station Project have not returned to work. The power utility also says Violence and intimidation are some of the reasons some workers have not heeded the call to duty. Numsa Head of Collective Bargaining, Steve Nhlapo...
In 24 hours, Britons will vote to elect a new government and a new prime minister. Voters across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will go to the polls in one of the most closely contested election in nearly a quarter of a century - with no winner in sight ! Thousands of candidates will compete for only 650 seats in Parliament. Any party that wins an outright majority of 326 or more seats can form a government. However without an outright majority, the largest single party will need to form a coalition with one of the smaller parties. Jennifer Smit, social commentator and voter…
Hundreds of angry residents in Orlando West have been burning tyres and barricading roads, since early this morning. They claim that Eskom installed prepaid electricity meters without their consent, and that they cant afford the high electricity tariffs. Orlando Community Task Team Member, Faith Vanqa....
The Department of Correctional Services says it is shocked at the death of its eight officials in a multi-vehicle collision on the N2 outside Swellendam in the Overberg. Regional Commissioner, Delekile Klaas, says the officials, employed at the Buffeljags Correctional Centre, were on their way to work when the crash happened. Western Cape Chief of Traffic, Kenny Africa...
A hospital in Darkoush, Syria run by South African charity organisation Gift of the Givers, has been bombed in an air-strike. Government warplanes reportedly fired a missile into the field hospital, leaving several people injured, windows shattered and doors destroyed. Gift of the Givers' Imitaiz Sooliman...
A Kenyan author has lambasted his countries Deputy President for his anti-homosexuality comments. Binyavanga Wainaina took to social media to attack William Ruto who alleged to have made statements that there no place in the Kenyan society for homosexuality. Kenyan activist and author Binyavanga Wainaina…
ESKOM has started to remove striking workers at Medupi power station from its Lephalale hostel in Limpopo. The workers have defied a court order - instructing them to return to work after seven weeks of illegal industrial action. They are allegedly intimidating non-striking workers who want to report for duty. Eskom Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe...
The Mpumalanga Provincial government has established task team to help accelerate service delivery in the province. One of the projects that they'll be working on is the implementation of water projects in order to meet the provincial target of December 2015 for the delivery of water to all communities. And they'll also look at the reports that some of the municipalities are failing to use their allocated budgets.Yesterday, we spoke to our reporter in the province who told us that eight municipalities in the province are struggling to use their allocated budget...Head of the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Cain Chunda..
Durban resident Jonathan Kelsey has a tongue insured for 5-million rand. The master tea-blender at Joekels Tea Packers, Kelsey skillfully maintains a consistent flavour, colour and smell in every batch of tea. Kelsey is part of an elite group of people who've insured their body parts including singer Jennifer Lopez's derriere for 300-million dollars, and Mariah Carey's legs for one billion dollars. I caught up with Kelsey as he sat down for a cuppa...
Anger replaced frustration in earthquake-hit Nepal as the government failed to reach out to millions in need of help. A chilly drizzle Thursday disrupted relief operation but did not deter hundreds of homeless people fleeing capital Kathmandu where essential stores are running out. Meanwhile, A teenage boy has been rescued after surviving for five days in the rubble of a building, following an earthquake that killed more than five thousand people in Nepal. SABC Channel Africa's Executive Producer, Janine Coetzier...
Relief aid teams are in a race against time to find remaining survivors in Nepal. The number of people killed by the Himalayan country's worst earthquake in eight decades now stands above 5-thousand dead. Spokesperson for International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Maude Froberg says information can save lives in the aftermath of a disaster..
KwaZulu Natal Premier, Senzo Mchunu has appointed a task team to investigate the recent xenophobic attacks in the province. Today, the task team chaired by Former United Nations Judge, Navi Plillay presented the terms of reference for the investigation. Mchunu established the task team following the violence that displaced thousands of foreign nationals. Former United Nations Commissioner, Judge Navi Plillay...
The Railway Safety Regulator says the driver of the second train passed through a signal danger sign before the fatal crash in Denver south east of Johannesburg yesterday. Over two hundred people were injured and one person was killed when an Express Train collided with a stationary train at the station. The regulator will release a preliminary report into yesterday's two train collision in a few minutes time, But THE Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) CEO, Lucky Montana gave us a glimps on what may have happened and Railway Safety Regulator's Senior Manager for Public Relations, Babalwa Mpendu...
Western Cape government proposes that dogs be banned in some of the province's beaches....and this is not seating well with some of the province dog owners and lovers who are now up in arms over the proposal. Director of Sport And Recreation for the City of Cape Town, Gert Ban...
The Right2Know Campaign, the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), and the United Front national working committee, has released a report titled "Big Brother Exposed" which claims that some of their activists and unionists have been monitored and harassed by South Africa's intelligence agencies, or people claiming to represent them. Right To Know Campaign Spokesperson. Murray Hunter...
The gender pay gap has widened to 38% in 2014. Sandra Burmeister, CEO of Amrop Landelahni, says this effectively means that women work for free for four-and-a-half months a year, while men receive a full years pay. This comes as the first global gender summit on the African continent relating to Science and Technology opens at the Cape Town International Convention Centre today. Burmeister says closing the male-female employment gap would have huge economic benefits for the country...
It's just after 4pm in the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, where plummeting temperatures and heavy rains are hampering rescue efforts. A devastating 7-point-8 magnitude earthquake followed by a series of aftershocks has killed at least 4-thousand people. Prime Minister Sushil Koirala has warned that the death toll could rise well above 10-thousand. 30 year old Rajan Parajuli a journalist and Director of the Antenna Foundation in Kathmandu, describes the devastation...
Suspended SAA CEO, Monwabisi Kalawe has resigned...Both Kalawe and the national flag carrier reached an agreement that he will vacate his post and in turn the disciplinary hearing against him will be deemed un-neccessary. This after Kalawe failed in his bid to stop his disciplinary hearing and to overturn his suspension in the Johannesburg Labour Court last Friday. SAA Executive for Group Corporate Affairs, Tlali Tlali..
Soccer players from around the world have paid tribute to John Moshoeu, who died yesterday after a long battle with cancer at the age of 49. Shoes is seen as one of the main driving forces in South Africa's victory at the 1996 African Cup of Nations. He played 73 times for Bafana Bafana and scored eight goals, four of them coming in that tournament. Former Bafana Bafana team mate Marks Maponyane...
South Africa has not issued any travel advisories for citizens in other parts of the continent. This comes as the Hong Kong government has issued a travel advisory for South Africa due to the xenophobic violence in the country. High Commissioner to Ghana Lulama Xingwana has told a news conference that the commission foiled a possible attack when four Ghanaians attempted to enter the building on Friday. They threatened to return to burn the Commission. Also in West Africa, the South African consulate in Lagos, Nigeria has been closed for two days. DIRCO spokesperson Nelson Kgwete...
The 2014 year-end unemployment rate was 24-percent. But with an expanded definition, which includes discouraged job seekers, that rate rises to nearly 35% for 50 to 64 year olds. The picture is much worse for the youth: The unemployment rate in the 18 to 24 age category stands at 49% for the narrow definition and 64% when discouraged youths are included. But do migrant workers steal jobs in South Africa? Kate Wilkinson - a researcher at Africa Check - the first fact checking website on the continent...
Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini has called for an Imbizo on Monday in Ethekwini, to discuss the xenophobic violence that is currently gripping the nation. KwaZulu-Natal. Meanwhile emergency personnel have embarked on a clean-up operation in Jeppestown, Johannesburg, following last night's attack on foreign nationals. Police Spokesperson lieutenant-General Solomon Makgale....
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has taken a decision to close Roodepoort Primary School indefinitely. The decision came as a result of the continuous disruptions to schooling at the school, the MEC will approach the South Gauteng High Court to seek an interdict against the community members who are disrupting schooling. Lesufi has urged parents of learners at the school to place their children at neighbouring schools. Spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, Phumla Sekhonyane...
A concert by a South African artist, Kelly Khumalo due to take place in London has been cancelled. Reports say that cancellation was done in solidarity with those affected by the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Ezra Sibanda from Elite Promotions...
A South African Team of Health Professionals who worked in Sierra Leone as part of the initiative by the Department of Health for the Ebola Emergency Response, have just returned home. The seven healthcare professionals were in Sierra Leone for over eight weeks treating and caring or Ebola patients. Ebola killed thousands of people since its outbreak last March, mostly in the West Africa. One of the Healthcare professionals, Lucy Thukwane...
Western Cape Organiser of the South African Defense Union, Tim Flack, says he's laid a complaint of hate speech and inciting violence has been laid against Zulu King, Goodwill Zwelithini with the South African Human Rights Commission. Flack alleges that the King violated the rights to dignity, security, life, movement and residence of some African people. This follows reports of a speech he made last month in which he complained about crime and dirty streets. Spokesperson for the South African Human Rights Commission, Isaac Mangena...
New documents from in camera hearings from the Truth and Reconcilliation Commission will be released today by the South African History Archive to mark 19 years anniversary of the first TRC hearings. SAHA used the Promotion to Access to Information Act to access the more than 13 thousand pages of documents. The documents accessed include the hearings on former Mozambican president Samora Machel, incidents at Vlakplas and a detailed outline of the Magoos bar bombing.
The Institute of Race Relations says frustration amongst South Africans is a contributing factor to the xenophobic attacks experienced at various places in the country. Foreign shop owners have been evacuated and their shops looted in the eThikwini Metro, while foreign shop owners in the Johannesburg CBD have closed their businesses following threatening messages. Labour unions are also demanding that Eskom fire foreigners working on the construction of the Medupi power station in Limpopo. The head of media at the Institute for Race Relations, Minke Stadler, says the economic situation is one of the factors that contributes ...
Foreign nationals across Johannesburg are closing their shops after seeing threatening messages circulating on Social Media. Many say they are afraid of xenophobic attacks and are planning to leave the City Centre. Meanwhile most of foreign owned shops remain closed in the Durban CBD following attacks and looting yesterday. However, local chain stores are open amid strong police presence. Spokesperson for KZN's provincial cooperative governance department Lennox Mabaso & ANC's National Treasurer, Zweli Mkhize...
Police have beefed up security in certain townships in KwaZulu Natal, including KwaMashu, Umlazi, and Chatsworth. This as attacks and killing of foreign nationals in the province spreads. More than 30 people have been arrested relating to xenophobic attacks. Business Council Deputy President, Sandile Zungu...
NUMSA says that all dismissed workers at the Medupi power station in Lephalale in Limpopo will be re-instated without any conditions according to an agreement the union reached with ESKOM. One thousand-700 workers were dismissed last month after they went on an unprotected strike demanding bonuses. Their dismissal led to daily protests by other workers at the station. Numsa Deputy General Secretary Karl Cloete......
Today marks a year since more than 200 girls were abducted by Boko Haram at Chibok Village, North-East of Nigeria. Upon their abduction a hashtag "bring Back the Girls" campaign was started in an efforts to put pressure on the Nigerian government to intensify its search for the girls. Meanwhile, Amnesty International says at least two thousand women and girls have been abducted by the militant group since the start of 2014 and most of those women and girls have been forced into sexual slavery and trained to fight. Amnesty International's Research and Advocacy Director for Africa, Netsanet Belay....
The Statistician General Pali Lehohla, just released a second report in a series of thematic series on crime. This report explores public perception about crime prevention and the Criminal Justice System in the country. Stats SA's Deputy Director-General of Population and Social Statistics, Kefiloe Masiteng...
KwaZulu Natal premier, Senzo Mchunu says about 30 people have been arrested following the wave of attacks on foreigners Durban township. The latest attacks are part of a tide of anti-foreigner sentiment which has spread to Durban's largest townships including eMlazi and KwaMashu. Five people have reportedly been killed,many foreign-owned shops looted and burnt, and over two thousand foreign nationals are being accommodated in temporary shelters. Premier, Senzo Mchunu....
The MEC of Health in Mpumalanga, Gillion Mashego has revealed that during the 2013/2014 financial year, the department has disposed 1 point 6-million-rand worth expired medicine. Mashego was responding to a question posed to him about the shortage of medicine at clinics in the province. The MEC of Health also told the legislature that 24-million-rands will be made available this year to appoint medic personnel. Spokesperson of the Mpumalanga Department of Health, Dumisani Malamule...
Former U.S Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton has set out for a tour of key states, at the start of her campaign to become the first woman US president. Clinton is taking a road trip to meet small groups of voters in Iowa, this after the first lady announced that she will be running for President in the upcoming US elections, running under the democrats ticket as a replacement for current President Barack Obama. Associate Editor of the Daily Maverick, Brooks Spector...
Several people have sustained injuries after police and private security officers fired rubber bullets to disperse striking workers at ESKOM's Medupi hostels. Construction workers who are on strike today, have allegedly been intimidating non-striking workers and turned away buses meant to take workers to the Medupi power station in Lephalale. They are part of about one-thousand-700 workers who were dismissed after they embarked on an illegal strike two weeks ago. NUMSA's Steve Nhlapo & Eskom Spokesperosn, Khulu Phasiwe...
Six people are feared to have died after a South African helicopter crashed in the Southern Zambia town of Mazabuka. This after a seven seater aircraft plunged into the bushy area of Mushiya farms and exploded. A preliminary report indicates that the aircraft is owned by Geotech Aviation South Africa Limited. Correspondent in Zambia, Sydney Mungala...
The looting and vandalising of foreign-owned businesses in Umlazi in Durban continued last night after a shooting of a local woman allegedly by a foreign national. The shop owners were forced to abandon their shops under heavy police guard. Foreign National and Businessman in the area Umar Njia........
Expelled Cosatu General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi has called on nine major unions loyal to his cause to determine the future of the union federation-Cosatu. Last night Vavi addressed a Shop Steward Council in Cape Town. Vavi told the cosatu affiliated workers unions that he is still the only legitimately elected general secretary of Cosatu. This despite an order from the Cosatu central executive committee that he was fired and no one affiliated to the federation was allowed to be addressed by him. President of Cosatu, Sdumo Dlamini...
Eskom says Loadshedding is un-avoidable this week...As the power utility struggles to keep the lights on, Hundreds of workers at Medupi Power Station in Lephalale, Limpopo have been locked out of the plant, this follows reports that the workers were going to embark on a strike. Two weeks ago, over one thousand workers at the power station were dismissed and many others given final written warnings after they had embarked on an unprotected strike. The stay away from work was the latest in a series of industrial disputes which have set back construction of the power station. NUMSA's General Secretary, Karl Cloete and Eskom Spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe...
The Coloured Community Alliance is being launched today in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. The coloured community in the area says it feels ignored by government hence a political party to advocate for its attention. Coloured Community Alliance's President, Desmond Whites.....
The education system should carry part of the blame for the vandalism of statues the past few weeks nationally as the history that is taught in schools is one sided. That was the message of Freedom Front Plus MP, Pieter Groenewald today at Church Square. He is one of the speakers at a rally where more than 200 people are protesting against the removal of the statue of Paul Kruger. The statue was recently vandalized and painted green. Groenewald says they laid criminal charges against the members and leadership of the EFF. Sociologist, Dr Ashwin Desai...
The Democratic Alliance is today celebrating 26 years of its existence and 15 years as an alliance. The Progressive Federal Party, Independent Party, and the National Democratic Movement formed the Democratic Party that was reformed in 2000 by the joining of the New National Party into Democratic Alliance. Former DA Deputy President and DA's Federal chairperson, Joe Seremane......
The Economic Freedom Fighters has promised to take its land occupation plans to Cape Town's more affluent areas. The party says they will lead communities in taking over land in Bishopscourt, Camps Bay and Rondebosch Common. About 500 people are illegally occupying a plot of land at Khayelitsha near Cape Town. Councillor Benedicta van Minnen, the mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, for the City of Cape Town...
Free State Stars manager Ranti Mokoena says funeral arrangements for striker Richard Henyekani who died in a car crash this morning are still to be finalised. Henyekani died with four other passengers in an accident near Bethlehem in the Free State in the early hours of this morning. Free State Stars Spokesperson, Lebohang Maketa......
News of a 15 year old Cape Town girl attempting to join terrorist group ISIS has raised critical questions about the country's State Security. How was a minor able to buy an international airline ticket? What did ISIS want from her? And do terrorists have a recruitment network in South Africa? The girl was taken off an airplane bound for Johannesburg over the weekend. Crime Line's Yusuf Abramjee.....
The National Treasury has announced that it will withhold the transfer of equitable share to 60 municipalities due to failure to pay Eskom and other service delivery creditors. Meanwhile, The SA Local Government Association- Salga has called on municipalities to immediately implement credit control measures to recover debt from government. Municipalities are owed over 90 billion Rands for services such as water, sanitation, electricity and waste management. SALGA Executive Director for municipal finance, Simphiwe Dzengwa (Nze-ngwa)...
It is reported that Militant group al-Shabab has claimed the attack at a university in Kenya, killing at least eight people. Gunmen stormed a university in Garissa town, opened fire 8 people died and about 30 were wounded. We understand that Troops have surrounded the campus and are engaging the attackers. NTV Kenya Journalist, Ken Mijungu & Arnolda Shiundu, from the Kenya Red Cross Office...
Easter holiday travelling... Traffic on the N1 highway north is increasing rapidly with the waiting time at the Carousel Plaza already longer than ten minutes. There is a strong police and Tshwane Metro Police presence along the route with busses and trucks being pulled off. Transport Spokesperson, Tiyani Rikhotso.....
As the Department of Public Enterprises and Eskom starts the process to pick a new permanent head for power utility, following the resignation of its chairperson Zola Tsotsi. And with Medupi Unit 6 currently being tested and optimised to enable it to join the Eskom generation fleet as a contributor to energy supply. The main issue of concern of every South African's mind is; will the power utility keeps the lights on over the Easter Weekend? Eskom's Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe...
Nigerian stocks have soared to a near three-month high as investors welcomed a win for the opposition party in Saturday's closely fought presidential election. Three decades after seizing power in a military coup, Muhammadu Buhari has become the first Nigerian to oust a president through the ballot box. It puts him in charge of Africa's biggest economy and one of its most turbulent democracies. Gotel Africa TV journalist - Lionel Luqman Skink & Independent Political Analyst, Dr Richard Iroaja...
Close to two hundred foreign nationals have spent the night at the Isipingo police station south of Durban after they fled their homes last night following attacks on them. The Ethekwini Municipality, provincial Community Safety and Liaison and other stakeholders worked until late last night in an effort to resolve the ongoing conflict between the foreign nationals and local residents of areas south of the city. Kwazulu-Natal MEC for Community Safety Willies Mchunu's spokesperson, Kwanele Ncalane...
Mineral Resources Minister Advocate Ngoako Ramatlhodi has released results of the mining industry's compliance to the Mining Charter, for the period 2004 to 2014. The Charter was adopted in 2004 and was amended in 2010 with a revised score card to strengthen and sharpen its efficacy in driving transformation and competitiveness in the mining sector. Special Advisor to Mining Minister, Advocate Mahlodi Muofhe.....
COSATU national office bearers will officially announce the expulsion of the labour federation's general-secretary Zwelinzima Vavi shortly. This, after he challenged his fellow national office bearers to boot him out by refusing to attend the special central executive committee meeting currently underway. It's the second consecutive CEC meeting that he has boycotted. Vavi refused an opportunity from his fellow NOBs to explain his absence from CEC meetings. Inside Labour Columnist at Fin 24 & City Press, Terry Bell
Price-waterhouse-Cooper (PwC) has released their fourth edition of the analysis looking at the major South African insurers results, covering the year ended December 2014.The results are a reflection of the financial health of the insurance industry operating in a challenging environment. High energy costs and power interruptions were identified as some of the factors that could be hindering growth in the industry.PwC South Africa's Insurance Technical Director, Dewald van den Berg....
Transnet pensioners earlier marched to the Union Buildings to hand over a petition about lost money and maladministration. Last year, the high court in Pretoria granted 62 thousand pensioners leave to launch a class action suit in an attempt to recover close to 80 billion rand in assets and interest. The group accuses Transnet of stripping the pension fund of its assets and mismanaging it to such an extent that the funds are unable to meet their obligations to members. Institute for Poverty, Land &Agrarian Studies (PLAAS) Gauteng Leader and MP, Anton Alberts.......
Eskom has denied reports that it is preparing for a national blackout. The power utility is reported to have recently conducted a national exercise to test its systems. The simulation test called Exercise Breaking Dawn- is reported to be an indication that the power utility is bracing itself for an imminent worst case scenario. Meanwhile, Eskom chairperson Zola Tsotsi says he's ready to present his case to the power utility's board today. Board members are to meet today, following last week's meeting to discuss Tsotsi's fate. Energy Analyst Chris Yelland....
The head of the NPA, Mxolisi Nxasana, says it is dis-heartening that the police are trying to create a perception that the summons against his deputy, Nomgcobo Jiba, was issued and served with an ulterior motive. Nxasana was addressing the media in Pretoria after a war of words have erupted between his office and the police over the legality of the summons. Nxasana says as far as he could see the summons was legal. Crime and Justice Programme Senior Reseacher at the Institute for Security Studies, Dr Johan Burger...
The Communication Workers Union has yet again called on the government to intervene in what it calls mass retrenchments at Telkom. The union alleges that Telkom employees only have until the end of this month after which they will have no jobs. CWU General Secretary Aubrey Tshabalala........
Over a thousand Eskom workers who embarked on an unprotected strike at the power utility's Medupi Power station in Limpopo, have been dismissed from work, while others were given final warnings. About 21 thousand contract workers went on a one-day strike on Wednesday over poor living conditions and seeking higher pay. Eskom spokesperson, Khulu Phasiwe and NUMSA's Mpumzi Maqungo....
Nigerians are preparing to go to the voting polls on Saturday to elect a president, this amid security threats from the Boko Haram militant group. The front runners President Goodluck Jonathan and former military dictator Muhammadu Buhari have promised to tackle the militant group-Boko Haram as well as corruption. SABC's Foreign Desk Editor, Sophie Mokoena who is in Abuja Nigeria...
DA leader Helen Zille has just presented her party's position on solving South Africa's electricity crisis. This is as South Africa continue to grapple with power supply problems. DA Leader & the premier of the Western Cape, Helen Zille.....
Five fire fighters battling the blaze at a Durban South cooking oil factory in KwaZulu Natal have been rushed to hospital for treatment. The cause of the fire that started early this morning is still unknown. The flames have also spread from the Sun Oil factory to an adjacent paint factory. KwaZulu-Natal Emergency Services spokesperson, Robert McKenzie...
The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC), has launched a campaign to create awareness amongst all banking customers of the urgent need to ensure they are FICA-compliant. This follows the Reserve Bank setting a deadline for all banks to ensure that their customers are FICA-compliant. CEO of SABRIC, Kalyani Pillay...
The future of the Cecil John Rhodes statue may be decided tonight. A meeting of all stakeholders of the University of Cape Town is expected to be held at 6pm this evening. The meeting will also address transformation at the institution. The decisions that emerge will culminate in a proposal to the university council. A group of students has been occupying the main administration block since Friday to support their demands to remove the statue. UCT SRC Vice President is Zipho Pae - in her fourth year of an Economics and Stats degree...
Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi is leading a massive TB screening campaign, being launched in Kanana near Klerksdorp in the North West. This as part commemoration of World TB Day. The campaign is aimed at encouraging South Africans - particularly those in mining communities, inmates in correctional facilities and those in early childhood development centres - to be screened and tested for TB. Dhashen Moodley speaks to Director of the Centre for TB Research at the South African Medical Research Council, Professor Paul van Helden
The low carb high fat diet has become the latest craze sweeping across the nation. As countless South Africans continue to battle the bulge, the Human Sciences Research Council is hosting a seminar on healthy diets at the CSIR's conference centre in pretoria today. Speakers include Professor Tim Noakes who has become a household name for encouraging a high fat diet to improve weight loss. Joining us on the line is HSRC's Research Director for population health - Professor Charles Hongoro
Cape Town businessman Cobus Kellerman has been implicated in one of the biggest Ponzi schemes ever discovered in the South Hemisphere. Offshore Alert, a US-based company which specialises in uncovering fraud in offshore financial centres, describes Kellermann's Belvedere Management Group as "a massive criminal enterprise". Financial journalist Alec Hogg has been investigating whether there is more to this Ponzi scheme allegation than just a sensational headline
There are reports that Eugene de Kock has be released from jail but has apparently been secretly handed over to security forces for detention against his will. According to the reports, De Kock's lawyer Julian Knight says he does not know where he is but has received instructions from De Kock asking for help. Spokesperson for the Department of Justice and Correctional Services, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga...
Gauteng principals who failed to reach the targets set by the department of education last year have met with the Education MEC in the province. About 30 percent of school principals failed to meet the 80 percent matric pass rate set by the department. MEC Panyaza Lesufi...
Today is the third annual International Day of Happiness, created by the United Nations to recognize the relevance of happiness in people's lives and public policy objectives. Joining us on the line from the UN Headquarters in New York is Chief of Special Events Jeffrey Brez...
Bad news sells partly because a bias towards the negative protects us from harm. But today, the United Nations wishes to remind humanity that happiness remains a fundamental goal. The world body charged with fostering friendly relations among nations has selected 22 songs for the happiest playlist in the world. The "Happy Sounds Like" campaign has been launched for 2015's International Day of Happiness as the UN turns 70 this year. Our reporter Dhashen Moodley asks, can you hear the sound of happiness?
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Buti Manamela who has been tasked with overseeing the development of the National Youth Policy says promoting entrepreneurship and encouraging young people to become job creators rather than job seekers is the main focus of the National Youth Policy 2020 vision. The policy is being drafted taking into consideration the National Development Plan 2030, the Industrial Policy Action Plan, the New Growth Path and the African Youth Charter. Deputy Minister in the Presidency Buti Manamela...
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department will cancel traffic fines received by motorists between the period August 2010 and 21 December 2012. This after the Public Protector Thuli Madonsela found that the infringement notices were issued by ordinary post instead of registered mail which is in contravention of the Aarto Act. JMPD Spokesperson Wayne Minaar....
The Khulumani Support Group says consultations with victims should be a priority before granting special political pardons. Five years ago the Constitutional Court froze the Special Dispensation on Political Pardons - pending an evaluation process that mirrored the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. One of the conditions included consultations with victims of apartheid era atrocities, which Khulumani says has never happened. Dr Majorie Jobson is the Director of the organisation...
South Africa faces a far greater electricity shortfall than is commonly estimated this is according to a report by the Institute for Race Relations. Engineer Andrew Kenny says despite to building of Medupi and Kusile power stations we will still not have enough electricity to power even modest economic growth. Head of Policy Research, Dr Anthea Jeffery ..
The application by the head of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), Robert McBride, for an interdict against his planned suspension has been struck off the roll by the High Court in Pretoria. Judge Hans Fabricous ruled that the matter is not urgent. Police minister Nathi Nkosinathi Nhleko asked Mcbride to explain why he should not be suspended for his role in the illegal rendition of 4 Zimbabwean nationals. IPID head Robert Mcbride's lawyer, Jac Maree
About 2000 Zimbabweans face deportation after failing to meet the requirements for the Zimbabwe Special Permit. Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba was giving an update on the current situation with the Zimbabweab Special Project. Spokesperson Mayihlome Tshwete on the matter....
The Western Cape government has defended its decision to cancel subscriptions to the Cape Times newspaper. The provincial government informed department heads last week not to renew their subscriptions. National Editors Forum-Sanef has condemned the move saying the decision is a threat to media freedoom. Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille's spokesperson- Micheal Mpofu and Executive Director at Sanef- Mathatha Tsedu...
The National Union of Mineworkers says they will shut down all operations at the Assmang mine near Kuruman in the Northern Cape. About 6-hundred mineworkers picketed outside Blackrock mine at Hotazel in support of nearly one-thousand mineworkers who are facing possible retrenchments at the end of the month. NUM's General Secretary Frans Baleni
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries department says Foot and Mouth disease outbreak in Bambanani in KwaZulu/Natal, Mhinga in Limpopo and Marite in Mpumalanga is now under control. The outbreak in 2011 caused South Africa beef imports, as World Organisation for Animal Health(OIE) banned the country from exporting beef. Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Senzeni Zokwana...
The High Court in Pretoria has made an order in respect of the timeline for filing court papers in the "spy tapes" case. The Democratic Alliance approached the Court in its bid to have corruption charged against president Jacob Zuma re-instated. The charges were dropped by then acting director of public prosecutions Mokoteli Mpshe, citing manipulation of prosecutorial processes as the reason for his decision. The so called "ZUMA SPY TAPES' contain communication between senior officials of the NPA and the then crime fighting unit Scorpions. After going through the tapes, the DA remains convinced that Mpshe's decision was politically motivated and that Zuma must have his day in court. Democratic Alliance's national spokesperson Marius Redelinghuys...
Power utility Eskom says it has no plans to implement load shedding for the rest of the week, but has called on consumers to continue to use electricity sparingly. Meanwhile Eskom Chairman Zola Tsotsi has put himself in charge of the investigation into the state of the power utility. Eskom suspended four top executives last week. Independent Energy Analyst Chris Yelland......
Public enterprises minister, Lynn Brown, says she and Eskom's board have long been frustrated about the inability of the power utility's executives to give proper information on operational issues. Four Eskom top executives, including CEO Tshediso Matona who has been with Eskom for six months, were suspended yesterday. Board Chairperson, Zola Tsotsi, announced an inquiry to look into Eskom operations. Brown says the instability at power plants, the unreliable supply of electricity and its dire impact on the economy is concerning. Shaun Nel of the Energy Intensive Users Group...
There is confusion over whether Hawks boss, Anwa Dramat, has resigned or not. Although sources within the Hawks have confirmed that Dramat resigned earlier this week, police ministry spokesperson, Musa Zondi, has denied the reports. Dramat was suspended in December for his alleged role in the illegal rendition of Zimbabwean suspects in 2010. DA shadow minister of Police, Dianne Kohler Barnard and Chris Peters, he is researcher at the Helen Suzman Foundation
President Jacob Zuma has launched an energy saving campaign for the Presidency and Government at the Union Buildings in Pretoria today. During the State of the Nation Address, President Zuma urged South Africans including the private sector and government departments to save electricity. The Department of Public Works has also been instructed to ensure that all government-owned buildings are energy efficient. Professor Nico Beute of the Energy Institute....
National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) members is working tirelessly to have its 2015 wage demands for the gold and coal sectors ready for tabling before the end of this month. The union's two-day national bargaining conference which ends today, is expected to release details of its consolidated wage and conditions of employment demands. Meanwhile the union has two days to recruit members at the Aquarius Platinum Mine in Rustenburg, or have its offices closed at the mine. This is as AMCU, NUM rivals, says it has gained the majority at the mine. National Union of Mineworkers' General Secretary, Frans Baleni...
Retail banking remains the largest source of earnings for all the five major banks in South Africa. Report released by Ernst and Young say many of the banks have also managed to reduce credit impairments last year mainly due to a tighter credit regulatory environment. Ernst and Young financial services sector leader Emilio Pera ...
The announcement of the suspension of Eskom's Chief Executive Officer Tsediso Matona has sent shockwaves through corporate South Africa. Professor of company law Tshepo Mongalo says although the chairperson of the board Zola Tsotsi says there is nothing untoward with the suspension of the Executives, he believes that from a corporate governance perspective, there is more than meets the eye...
The SA Human Rights Commission has launched an investigation into allegations of workers being forced to apply for a green card to access certain parts of Worcester. The Daily Voice newspaper recently reported that the cards were being given to people who worked, or wanted to work, in certain neighbourhoods in Worcester after a rise in break-ins and theft. A Worcester police sector commander Sergeant Julian Plaatjies told the newspaper that he verified the work history information given by applicants. Human Rights Commissioner Senior Researcher for civil and political rights, Rachel Ward...
The Eskom Board has today resolved to commission an independent enquiry on the current status of the business and its challenges. The Board, in its quest to address the current challenges faced by Eskom, has deemed it prudent to seek an independent view on the status of, among other things: Eskom Chairman, Mr Zola Tsotsi,
A faction of Agang SA has launched a scathing attack on the party member of Parliament Andries Tlouamma who is also it's acting president. Tlouamma is accused of sowing division within the party by convening illegal NEC meetings and misappropriation of funds. It's believed that he is a signatory for all the four party accounts and has allegedly been withdrawing money for purposes that are not related to party affairs. The party's NEC member Ambani Thenga says they have pressed criminal charges against Tluamma. The party's NEC member Ambani Thenga...
The SA National Editors' Forum has condemned the mugging of three SABC journalists in Johannesburg last night. SABC contributing editor Vuyo Mvoko, foreign editor Sophie Mokoena and journalist Chriselda Lewis were preparing for a live crossing when they mugged in full view of a camera. The video footage showing two men accosting Mvoko outside Milpark Hospital has gone viral on YouTube. Gauteng Police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza...
Parliaments Portfolio Committee on Telecommunications is hearing about the state of readiness of the digital migration project. Key roleplayers include Etv, Sabc, Mnet, Icasa, Sentech, SABS, PostOffice and Usaasa - the state owned agency responsible for the tender process to acquire set-top boxes. These boxes enable an analogue TV to receive digital signals. Director of Media Monitoring Africa - William Bird...
Medical Negligence is a major concern for the South African health ministry especially as it carries legal implications. The rising number and impact of medico-legal claims in South Africa has spurred the health industry into a united action with Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi. Steve Biko Health Centre for Bioethics Director Professor Ames Dhai......
The SA Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) has threatened to go on strike after wage negotiations with the SA Local Government Association (Salga) reached a stalemate. SAMWU wants a 15 percent wage increase. Spokesperson from the Salga bargaining unit Tahir Sema
South Africans have expressed shock and sadness at the passing of hip hop star, Flabba. The rapper - whose real name is Nkuli Hadebi was stabbed to death in the early of this morning, allegedly by his girlfriend. The news of his death sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and fans. The hashtag #RIPFlabba has been trending on Twitter since the news broke a few hours ago. His fans say it's still hard to believe the pioneer of SA hip hop is now gone... Lebogang "shugasmaxx" Mothibe a member of the Hip Hop group Skwatta Kamp...
The Cape Cycle Tour has been reduced from 109 kilometre route, down to 47 kilometres. Labour federation COSATU says reducing the distance is patently unfair and accuses the City of refusing to allocate other roads. Zara Nicholson the spokesperson for the Mayor of the City of Cape Town...
The Chairperson of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, Thoko Mkhwanazi- Xaluva says everyone has the right to use the language and to participate in the cultural life of their choice. Xaluva said this during a dialogue to discuss challenges faced by cultural and religious communities. Chairperson of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, Thoko Mkhwanazi- Xaluva...
Cape Town Disaster Risk Management says the Muizenberg fire is under control. The blaze lead to hundreds of people being evacuated. Fire fighters have been battling the inferno that destroyed over 5 thousand hectares of Fynbos over the past five days. Sirens can still be heard in the distance as they continue to monitor active areas. Tokai resident, Nicky von Bratt and her family were forced to flee their home at one o'clock on Monday morning.
More than 90-percent of wealthy South Africans give of their time, goods and money to charitable causes. The Giving Report - a study commissioned by Nedbank Private Wealth - estimates that total giving by high net worth individuals amounts to eight billion rand in cash in 2012. Noxolo Hlongwane, Head of Philanthropy at Nedbank Private Wealth..
Government has resolved to verify the qualifications of all it's employees and applicants for government jobs. Communications Acting Director-General Donald Liphoko says government has taken note of the increased reports of fraudulent qualifications and is determined to flush out public servants who misrepresent their academic qualifications. Liphoko says an environment conducive to entrenching clean governance, requires no less from public servants. Acting DG of the Department of Communications, Donald Liphoko.
Civil society organisations are concerned by government's lack of open consultation on its new National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security. The policy aims to provide for the right of all South Africans to have access to sufficient food. But, The Studies in Poverty and Inequality Institute (SPII), together with Oxfam, the Human Rights Commission and Section 27, believe that the rush to implement the new policy is unnecessary and unhelpful. The country has nearly 14 million people who regularly experience inadequate access to food. SPII's Busiso Moyo...
The civil rights organisation AfriForum today submitted a complaint against the South African government at the United Nations’ (UN) Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders. The complaint arises from the unlawful behaviour of the South African government to prevent AfriForum from participating in the activities of the UN. AfriForum has revealed that the Chief Editor: Human Rights and Humanitarian Matters at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) gave a South African representative at the UN’s Head Office in New York on 2 February 2015 instruction from Pretoria to do everything in his ability to ensure that AfriForum’s application to be registered at the UN’s section for non-government organisations, fails.
Fire-fighters have been working around the clock battling to stamp out fires in Muizenberg, on the Cape Peninsula. The Table Mountain National Park says the fire has spread to the Tokai Plantations. 500 firefighters, five helicopters, two water-bombers and a defence force aircraft, are being used to contain the flames. Five houses and the Tintswalo Guest Lodge near Hout Bay have been gutted by the blaze.ape Town Disaster Risk Management Centre spokesperson Charlotte Powell & Uber's General Manager for Cape Town, Anthony Le Roux...
A fire is raging through the mountains in Muizenburg along the Cape Peninsula this afternoon. Five homes have been destroyed and three old age homes have been evacuated. Helicopters are expected to start water-bombing hotspots that are being fanned by the flames. Spokesperson for the Disaster Risk Management Centre is Charlotte Powell....
Blacklisted university students are staging a sit-in protest at the offices of the Department of Higher Education in Pretoria this afternoon. Under the umbrella of an "Occupy campaign", numerous student organisations are calling for the immediate scrapping of student debt and free education. They have promised to continue with the sit-in until Minister Blade Nzimande accepts their demands in person. Sthembiso Ka Shandu of the Occupy Department of Higher Education campaign...
Now, to a story that has broken the internet and divided family, friends and colleagues. Caitlin McNeill posted an image of a dress online to ask for feedback on the true colour of the garment. In the storm of comments that follow, people either see the dress as white-and-gold, or blue-and-black in colour. Johann van der Walt from the Photography Society of South Africa...
Clearwater Mall, west of Johannesburg, has been evacuated following a bomb scare. Security received an anonymous tip-off about four bombs being placed in the mall. Surrounding buildings are also being evacuated. Paramedics are on scene. ER24 spokesman Russel Meiring....
The commission of inquiry investigating the structural collapse of a Tongaat mall on 19 November 2013, continues today. Jay Singh, the CEO of Gralio Precast is expected to testify at the commission. Gralio Precast is the developing company behind the construction of the mall. Two people were killed and 29 others injured. Today as you drive past the relic along Tongaat's main road - it's a stark reminder that there are yet no answers to the fatal collapse. Nhlanhla Khumalo, spokesperson for the labour department in KwaZulu-Natal…
South Africa's Ambassador to Japan, Mohau Pheko, says she regrets stating that she has a PHD when she does not. Pheko however says she did register and work towards her PHD with American university LaSalle, but the university closed down before she could be awarded her doctorate 20 years ago. She say the university was promoted as legitimate. According to a Financial Mail report, LaSalle was shut down in 1996 when it emerged it was selling degrees and other academic qualifications via the Internet. Pheko is among several South African public officials recently found to have been falsely claiming certain academic qualifications. South Africa's Ambassador to Japan, Mohau Pheko...
South African cities are facing serious challenges of electricity charges, revenue generation and servicing poor households. The Chairperson of the South African Cities Network and Mayor of Tshwane Kgosientsho Ramokgopa is set to announce how the cities plan to address those challenges. Mayor of Tshwane Kgosientsho Ramokgopa...
Eight affiliates are marching to COSATU headquarters over the expulsion of NUMSA last year. This is ahead of the COSATU CEC to be held next week. FAWU National Organisar, Bheki Ngubane & FAWU General Secretary Katishi Masemola...
Scientists are preparing to restart the world's most powerful particle accelerator - The Large Hadron Colider - next week. After nearly 2 years of upgrades, it's now twice as powerful which boost its chances of discovering dark matter. This invisible and illusive substance is believed to constitute more than 80% of the universe. The Collider consists of a 27-kilometre ring of superconducting magnets, lying in a tunnel nearly 200 metres beneath the Franco-Swiss border. South African particle physicist Claire Lee is one of the scientists smashing particles together at the LHC...
A man that was shot during a confrontation between the Indian community in Lenasia and residents of Thembelihle has reportedly died in hospital. Meanwhile, police are patrolling Thembelihle informal settlement near Lenasia in Gauteng, after violent service delivery protests erupted. It's believed residents are angry at the Gauteng Human Sttlement MEC, Jacob Mamabolo's failure to meet with them since they submitted a memorandum in November last year. Gauteng Police Spokesperson, Lieutenant Kay Makhubele...
Greenpeace head Kumi Naidoo has written to state security minister David Mahlobo to demand more answers on his survailence by the South Korean government agents. Spy cables which were leaked to new network Al-Jazeera revealed that the South Korean intelligence made several requests for South Africa to provide information on the Naidoo ahead of the G20 summit in 2010. Greenpeace Executive Director Kumi Naidoo...
The Amnesty International says 2014 was a catastrophic year for millions caught up in violence especially in Africa. The organisation has released its annual report on the state of the world's human rights. In the report Amnesty International urge the five permanent members of the UN security council to give up their power of veto in situations of mass atrocities. Amnesty International's Director for Southern Africa, Deprose Muchena...
The Director of Unistel lab at the Stellenbosch University in the Western Cape says he's 99 point 9 percent confident that they matched the correct DNA samples to family members of the 85 South Africans who died in the Nigerian church building collapse. Managing Director of the lab Dr. Munro Marx, however says they only worked on DNA samples and that they never came into contact with any of the bodies. This follows claims by the Mkhulisi family from Benoni that they received the incorrect body. Dr Marx spoke to our reporter, Jacques Steenkamp and told him that various steps were followed to ensure that the bodies were correctly identified...
Possibilities of tax increases and petrol levy hikes are some of the issues that business and labour are hoping Finance Minster Nhlanhla Nene will address in his budget this afternoon. Black Business Council's Vice President Sandile Zungu & Cosatu National Spokesperson Patrick Craven...
The Lesotho Congress for Democracy has pledged to bring peace and stability to the Mountain Kingdom if it is voted into power. Party leader Mothejoa Metsing says this will bring back investor confidence and help to grow the country's economy. He briefed the media in Bloemfontein. Millions of Lesotho nationals will vote in the 8th Parliamentary elections on Saturday, two years and nine months after the last elections. leader of Lesotho Congress for Democracy, Mothetjoa Metsing..
Police have arrested 19 teachers across KwaZulu-Natal who allegedly submitted false qualifications to the provincial education department. Police spokesperson Jay Naicker says some of them were appointed with false matric certificates, while others submitted false tertiary certificates to get pay increases. Isaac Luthuli, spokesperson for KZN Education MEC Peggy Nkonyeni...
Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene will tomorrow deliver his first budget speech, and economists say he has a huge task ahead of him. This is in the wake of poor unemployment numbers, sluggish economic growth and an increasing government debt. The minister faces a 10-billion-Rand shortfall in revenue collection this year. Chief Economist at Pan-African Investment and Research Services, Dr Iraj Abedian...
Former UK Environment Minister Owen Paterson believes genetically modified crops are the key to saving Africa from hunger. Speaking in Pretoria this morning, Paterson says the European Union is forcing African nations into not growing GM crops, and threatening to cut off imports if they refuse. He's also accused environmental groups, whom he labels the Green Blob, of turning their backs on progress. Former UK Environment Minister Owen Paterson and Glen Tyler Greenpeace Africa's Food for Life Campaign Manager...
This past weekend a 10 year old girl blew herself up in a busy market in northeastern Nigeria, killing herself and four others.This fuelled fears of young children being used as suicide bombers by militants. Such kind of events have seen academics and authorities meet to discuss solutions to a threat by rebels and militants. UJ Professor Hennie Strydom who is a keynote speaker at the Boko Haram and International Law briefing being held in Johannesburg.....
It might be weeks before Stellenbosch University knows the cause of the fire that damaged the van der Sterr building yesterday morning. The building in Victoria street is used by the faculty of Economics and Management Sciences. University spokesperson Susan van der Merwe...
Teaching and learning resumed at the Roodepoort primary school West of Johannesburg this morning. Schooling was disrupted last week as parents protested over the appointment of a black principal and her deputy. They've been complaining that the School Governing Body did not follow correct procedures in those appointments. Following a meeting with the parents, the Gauteng Department of Education has withdrawn the appointment of the School Principal and her Deputy, until March 24th when a meeting will be held. General Secretary of the Scbool Governing Bodies, Mathakanya Mathakanya.....
Harmony Gold mine and the Mineral Resources Department have launched an investigation into a fire that trapped nearly 500-workers more than two kilometres down a mine shaft. All 486 miners were rescued yesterday - following an extensive rescue operation. Unions AMCU and NUM are due to meet with mine management this afternoon. NUM's Eric Gcilitshana is the National Secretary for Health and Safety and Minister of Mineral Resources, Ngoako Ramathlodi...
17 global medical professionals are meeting in Cape Town today at the first International Low Carb, High Fat Health Summit. The summit covers topics such as diabetes, the "cholesterol myth, cardiovascular health and other lifestyle diseases. One of the guests includes Jimmy Moore, who catapulted onto the health scene after losing more than 80-kilograms. He's dedicated his life to helping people get the best information possible so they can make the right decisions about their health. Jimmy Moore, attending the first International Low Carb, High Fat Health Summit in Cape Town....
Yesterday over hundred people in the Western Cape marched to the provincial legislature as part of their year-long campaign against racism. In a separate case, this morning police had to intervene after a fight broke out between black and coloured parents of learners at the Roodepoort Primary school on the Gauteng West Rand. Some parents have been complaining about the appointment of a black principal. Meanwhile, a case of racism has been opened with the Boksburg Police station, east of Johannesburg after a cyclist called One of South Africa's first professional cyclist Luthando Kaka the "K word". CEO of the South African Human Rights Commission, Kayum Ahmed...
Rea Vaya buses in Johannesburg are still not operating. A week ago Piotrans- the company operating the bus service fired 158 drivers who went on an unprotected strike. Yesterday, workers union-SAMWU which is representing the dismissed drivers tabled their grievances, stating unhappiness of drivers about the management, labour brokers and nepotism within the company. Piotrans said they had started a process of hiring new drivers. company's General Manager for Strategy and Transformation, Dumisani Mntambo.....
The South African National Editors Forum - Sanef says it is committed to have a cordial relationship with government and to solve any problem through negotiations. The country's editors met President Jacob Zuma at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria earlier today. The meeting was prompted by among others the jamming of cellular phones in Parliament last Thursday. SANEF freedom of expression chairperson Adriaan Basson....
Communication Workers Union (CWU) says it will embark on mass action against landline provider, Telkom's imminent retrenchments. The union has called on Telkom to withdraw all retrenchment notices sent to affected workers. Telkom says they will only be able to talk to the media next week Monday. CWU General Secretary, Aubrey Tshabalala....
Schools, traffic and licensing departments, immigration and housing have been exposed by reporters as the most corrupt in the latest Corruption Watch report. The Gauteng province continues to dominate the provincial charts, constituting 44% of the complaints received in 2014, up by 6% from the 38% in 2013. Executive Director at Corruption Watch South Africa, David Lewis......
On twitter, Eskom has posted that the chances of loadshedding are low to medium for the day. Emergency repairs to the Majuba power station have added around one thousand eight hundred megawatts to the grid, reducing the need for controlled power outages. The utility's Khulu Phasiwe...
The curtains open tonight at 2015 Jozi Film Festival with a bizarre love story. Love The One You Love, will premiere in Johannesburg tonight, and questions the ideals we hold too sacred: like love, happiness and even the New South Africa - a pursuit which makes truth impossible. Jenna Bass - the director of Love The One You Love which premieres in Johannesburg at the Jozi Film Festival tonight...
The DA has filed papers with the High Court in Cape Town to seek an interim interdict against a law that allows for security forces to be called into the chamber to remove MPs. The DA's James Selfe says they want the court to grant the interdict pending the outcome of the full review court application. He says while police can be allowed into the chamber under serious circumstances, MPs have constitutional rights. DA's Federal Executive Chairperson, James Selfe...
A school, including a library has been torched at Xigalo (prononced: Shi-galo) village in Malamulele in Limpopo. The incident comes barely two days after the Malamulele residents' decided to call off of a five-week shut down of services protest action. They have staged protests demanding their own municipality separate from Thulamela. The shut down affected 140 schools in the area as well as businesses. Four schools and a government building were torched. resident of Malamulele and a member of Shimoko Party, Choky Baloyi...
Students at four campuses of the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria had until last night to vacate their residential hostels. The university has suspended academic activities, following a student protest over lack of funding. Spokesperson of the Tshwane University of Technology, Willa De Ruyter...
The Kwazulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs department says it is giving support to families of the seven people who were killed by lightning over the weekend. Seven people were killed and four seriously injured by a lightning strike in Mthonjaneni, KwaNongoma in KwaZulu Natal. KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Spokesperson Lennox Mabaso...
85-thousand matric learners are expected to sit for supplementary examinations in over 6-thousand centres around the country today. 468 learners from eight high schools near Kuruman were unable to write their exams last year following the closure of their schools by irate community members who were demanding a of tarred road. Basic Education spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga...
Various Malamulele community structures in Limpopo are meeting behind closed doors to take a decision on whether to end the service shut-down or not. The meeting is being held at the police's joint operation centre. The community structures led by the Malamulele Task Team are divided on whether or not to suspend the five week protest action. Residents embarked on their shutdown of services including schooling demanding their own municipality. The Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights Commission' deputy chairperson, Professor David Mosoma...
Public Enterprises Minister Lynne Brown says there's no power crisis in South Africa. Eskom has been struggling to supply enough electricity in the past few months, leading to load shedding. Yesterday President Jacob Zuma outlined a short term plan to combat the energy challenge. The plan includes a 23 billion rand boost for Eskom to resolve the power problem. Energy analyst, Chris Yelland...
The DA says it has written to the Powers and Privileges Committee to probe the conduct of the National Assembly Speaker, Baleka Mbete and NCOP Chair, Thandi Modise during last night's disruptions in Parliament. The DA walked out of the Chamber protesting the use of armed security personnel to remove EFF Mp's and the jamming of the cellphone signal. DA Parliamentary leader, Musi Maimane says Mbete and Modise are not qualified to bring the police or the Defence force into the chamber. UDM leader, Major- General, Bantu Holomisa....
The Human Rights Commission has warned that an escalation of attacks on foreign nationals is a threat to stability and social cohesion. Following the looting and attacks on immigrants, the African Diaspora Forum are marching together with civil society to promote greater tolerance. In 2008, xenophobic attacks and violence claimed the lives of about sixty people, and displaced many other foreign nationals. Deputy Chair of the ADF - Jean Pierre Lukamba...
The Presidency says it is humbled by the suggestions it has received from South Africans on what they would like to hear in President Jacob Zuma's his State-of-the-Nation Address this evening. The Presidency invited people to post their suggestions on its twitter account. Zuma says people are positive. Without giving details about the content of his speech, Zuma says he has a positive message for the country. The CEO of BUSA, Khanyi Koyama...
Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe says President Jacob Zuma's State-of-the-Nation address is expected to focus on resolving the country's current energy challenges. South Africa has been experiencing an unstable power supply with Eskom saying the power grid is constrained. Radebe says President Zuma will announce a short-term solution to the alleviation of the country's electricity problems. Meanwhile, some political parties are hoping President Zuma will show strong leadership when he delivers his State-of-the-Nation address this evening. African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), Reverend Kenneth Meshoe...
As captains of the mining industry converge on the Mining in Indaba in Cape Town this week, the health and safety of miners was one of the issues they had to address. In a panel discussion on the topic, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, says mines cannot afford to overlook health issues as this impacts on their employees and therefore their operations.
The City of Johannesburg has launched a special police operation to target crimes at traffic intersections including smash and grabs. 'Operation Ke Molao' will include the use of intelligence, law enforcement and the deployment of police vehicles at targeted hotspots along the City's highways, intersections and streets. Camera footage showing criminals involved in smash and grabs went viral recently and caused outrage on social media. JMPD spokesperson, Superintendent Edna Mamonyane...
The Economic Freedom Fighters breakaway group " The Defenders of the EFF's Constitution" say they will push for party leader Julius Malema to resign, they said this during a media briefing in Braamfontein in Johannesburg. The group further added that they want to appoint independent auditors to look into the books of the party. One of the Defenders of the EFF Constitution, Lufuno Gogoro...
Some families of the eleven victims who died when a church building collapsed in Nigeria last September have started with funeral arrangements. This after the remains were repatriated to the country early this morning. Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe says government is awaiting answers from Nigerian authorities regarding the fall of a church building in which 85 South Africans were killed. Government Spokesperson, Phumla Williams....
Co-operative Governance Minister Pravin Gordan says a new municipal demarcation process will allow concerns of Malamulele residents to be addressed. This after a meeting Minister Gordhan had with a local task team. Director General for Co-operative Governance, Vusi Madonsela....
Four Northern Cape learners who allegedly assaulted and raped a fellow learner with a broomstick and toothbrush are appearing in the local magistrates court today. The Education department in the province has warned that the learners, aged between 14 and 19, at the Agricultural High School in Jan Kempdorp could be summarily expelled. The act, which appears to be an initiation ceremony, was captured on camera by one of the learners. Northern Cape Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidoo & South African Human Rights Commission, CEO Kayum Ahmed...
The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed an application by Police Minister Nathi Nhleko to appeal against its earlier ruling regarding the suspension of Hawks boss Anwa Dramat. Director of the Helen Suzman Foundation Francis Antonie
Five illegal miners have been shot and killed in two separate incidents near the N12 on Gauteng's East rand. Details are still sketchy. Police Spokesperson, captain Tsekiso Mofokeng...
The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry-SACCI, has called on government to divide the country into three time to zones to deal with load shedding. SACCI is also calling for the privatisation of Eskom in the long term. In the medium term, it says Eskom needs to recover unpaid monies from municipalities and reduce electricity theft. SACCI Acting CEO Peggy Drodskie....
According to a research study conducted by Dr Sethulego Matebesi, researcher and senior lecturer at the University of the Free State, service delivery protests have increased substantially from about ten in 2004 to 111 in 2010, reaching unprecedented levels with 176 during 2014. Dr Sethulego Matebesi...
The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL), says future auctions are unlikely to raise the funding it needs to repay and service its R600 Million debt if uncertainty over e-tolls is not addressed. The agency says it will also not have cash to fund its operations, which include the maintenance and improvements of roads. Chief Financial Officer of the SA National Roads Agency, Inge Mulder...
A heavy police contingent is at the Bree taxi rank in Johannesburg to maintain peace and order. Earlier today a taxi driver was shot and killed at the rank. JMPD spokesperson, Edna Mamonyane...
Human Rights Watch has accused the Zimbabwean government of using violence and restricted humanitarian aid to force about twenty thousand flood victims, to accept resettlement packages that, it says, has left them utterly destitute. The revelations are part of a 57 page report by the organisation. A year ago, over 3 000 families were evacuated from their homes to an overcrowded holding camp, after the Tokwe river burst its banks. Human Rights Watch Researcher, Dewa Mavhinga......
The country's managers say they are unsure how to help employees struggling with depression. This comes from report on depression in the workplace, released by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group has released a report. The research also shows that more than 80% of people diagnosed with depression continue to work and this can cost a company five time more than when a person who opt not to come to work due to depression. Professor who compiled the report, Tienie Stander ...
30 year old Veronica Mathebula is no closer to knowing whether her husband's remains will arrive in South Africa this week. Veronica's husband Lybon died in Nigeria when a church building collapsed. A junior accountant by trade, Veronica married Lybon in 2011 and now cares for their 14month old son. Veronica Mathebula...
Following the three-week long protest action by the residents of Malamulele, Limpopo. This morning AMlive hosted a dialogue between the community and government officials. Among the issues that came out of the discussion was a letter that the Minister of Cooperative Governance Pravin Gordhan wrote to the Municipal Demarcation Board asking them to merge several municipalities in the Eastern Cape, North West, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, Free State and Gauteng. Meanwhile, Forensic investigators are at the scene where six offices of the Malamulele High school were gutted by fire last night. They will then proceed to Magona village were a second school was also burnt down. Chairperson of the Demarcation Board, Jane Thupana & police Spokesperson in Limpopo, Colonel Ronel Otto...
The National Prosecuting Authority says there is no investigation into the circumstances surrounding Selebi's arrest and following conviction for corruption. In August 2010 Selebi was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for corruption, but was released on medical parole in July 2012. He died last Friday of kidney failure and complications of diabetes. Former Crime Intelligence Boss Mulango Mphego..
Technology-based companies are searching for solutions to many of South Africa's biggest problems. University of Western Cape's hydrogen fuel cell project is hoping to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and reduce the chances of a nationwide blackout. Over the next two days, potential investors and entrepreneurs will meet technology startups at the Innovation Bridge. The event is the first of it's kind marchmaking initiative hosted at the CSIR ICC in Pretoria. Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor...
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has met with the principal of the Curro Roodeplaat Private School in Pretoria to discuss allegations of racially segregated classes. It's also emerged from weekend reports that parents and staff had also applied pressure on the principal to enrol fewer black learners. MEC Panyaza Lesufi...
Eight-four miners were killed in South Africa in 2014. Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi says the 44 miners died working at gold mines, 44 at platinum mines, 15 at coal mines, and nine in total at diamonds, chrome, copper, and iron ore mines. A total of 93 miners died in 2013. Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi...
The legal respresentative of Clive Derby-Lewis says they are not giving up to have him released on medical parole. This after the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Michael Masutha, turned down Derby-Lewis' application for medical parole. Elsabe Young says they are shocked and dissapointed by the minister's decision - saying the minister didn't take look at Derby-Lewis' medical condition as a whole. She says they will go to the Pretoria High Court to fight the decision. Young says the minister's decision will have a severe impact on Derby-Lewis. Law expert from UCT, Prof. Pierre de Vos...
The SACP has said it is excited that Justice Minister Micheal Masutha has not released Clive Derby Lewis from jail on medical parole. SACP had made a submission to Masutha saying that Derby-Lewis must remain behind bars as he has failed to fully disclose who and what was behind SACP Leader Chris Hani's assasination in April 1993. The Minister found that Derby-Lewis's condition - stage three B cancer did not merit his release. The Correctional Services legislation says a prisoner must have stage four cancer to be eligible for parole. The minister also raised questions about the exact the identity of the person from who samples were obtained after Derby-Lewis claimed to have initially used a psydonym to hide his identity. Finally the Minister said there was not evidence of remorse on Derby Lewis' part. SACP Acting National Spokesperson, Mhlekwa Nxumalo....
Police Minister Nathi Nhleko has asked Parliament's Police Committee to fire the head of the Hawks, Anwar Dramat. Nhleko has been briefing the committees on the suspension of Dramat in December last year. The suspension of Dramat was successfully challenged in court by the Helen Suzman Foundation, but Nhleko has appealed this ruling. Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC) spokesperson, Lawson Naidoo...
Twenty-two school children have been seriously injured after a minibus taxi crashed into the back of a bus in Umlazi, south of Durban. KwaZulu-Nata. This comes the day after seven schoolchildren were killed and several others injured in Pietermaritzburg's Embali Township when a bakkie transporting schoolchildren crashed into a house. Transport and Community Safety MEC in KZN, Willis Mchunu.
The South African Communist Party says the recommendation by medical parole board to release Clive Derby Lewis is an insult to the party and Chris Hani's family. Derby Lewis was jailed in 1993 for his role in the assassination of SACP leader, Chris Hani. Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Michael Mashuta will announce his decision tomorrow morning, But what will be the implication of this decision? Former member of Parliament and former practising advocate, Peter Gastrow...
The South African Institute of Race Relations says the current police situation is a case of the wolf guarding sheep. The institute says more and more police officers are getting involved in violent crimes like murder and armed robbery. The Institution has released results of an investigation into the extent to which police officers in the country plan and execute serious and violent crimes. Head of Media and Public Affairs at the South African Institute of Race Relations, Mienke Mari Steytler and Police Spokesperson Lieutenant-General Solomon Makgale .....
The Reserve Bank's monetary policy committee is meeting and will announce a decision on rates tomorrow. Many forecasts are for the repo rate to remain on hold at 5-point-75-percent. FNB Chief Economist Sizwe Nxedlana...
Over the weekend a scuffle broke out between the members of the SACP and ANC, at what was supposed to be a Joe Slovo and Jimmy Mohlala memorial lecture in Mpumalanga. It was reported that a group of people dressed in ANC colours stormed the venue; then fighting broke out, chairs were thrown at each other and many ran out of the Kanyamazane community hall. Spokesperson of the SACP in Mpumalanga, Lesetja Dikgale...
Gauteng's MEC for Economic Development, Lebohang Maile says the looting and violence in Soweto and surrounding areas has highlighted the slow pace of economic development in township areas. Shops owned by foreign nationals in the township have been looted and some torched and the looting had since spread to Alexandra and Kagiso- north and west of Johannesburg. Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Lebohang Maile to talk about the implementation of the revitalisation of the township economy plan ...
The medical parole board has approved Clive Derby Lewis's application for medical parole. His lawyer, announced the decision in Pretoria. Derby-Lewis who was behind the murder of SACP leader Chris Hani, has been in prison for more than 20 years. He has unsuccessfully applied for parole several times and is suffering from cancer. SACP's Acting Spokesperson, Mhlekwa Nxumalo....
The possible parole of Clive Derby-Lewis has taken a new turn after Justice Minister Michael Masutha said he had not been informed about the parole board's recommendation to grant the brains behind the murder of SACP leader Chris Hani his freedom. Masutha's spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga says the minister will announce his decision regarding Derby-Lewis, Ferdi Barnard, and Eugene de Kock, on Friday. He added that recommendations of the board were not binding on the minister. Derby-Lewis's wife, Gaye, earlier said the medical parole board had recommended that he be released. Derby-Lewis was jailed for his role in the murder of Hani in 1993.
Union Solidarity says their members at Comair which represents kulula and British airways, will down tool if their salary demands are not met. Solidarity's professional Industry head, Johan Botha.
Foreign shop owners in parts of Alexandra, north of Johannesburg say they're now working in fear following reports that the violent looting incidents have spread to the township. Police say one shop was set alight while attempts to burn another shop were prevented. We get reaction from SACCI on how this affects business in South Africa. SACCI's Acting CEO Peggy Drodskie
Amnesty International has warned that failure to protect hundreds of thousands of civilians could lead to a disastrous humanitarian crisis in Nigeria. This comes in the wake of two large scale attacks on the major north-eastern city of Maiduguri and the nearby town of Monguno. Netsanet Belay is Amnesty International's Africa Director
The DA says there's increasing evidence of corruption against former Gauteng Health MEC and current ANC chief whip in the provincial legislature, Brian Hlongwa. The National Prosecuting Authority was granted a forfeiture order in November last year against Hlongwa for his seven million rand house in Bryanston while Baoki Consortium is claiming over one million rand from the Gauteng Health Department for breach of contract. Da's Jake Bloom it is putting pressure on premier David Makhura to fire Hlongwa...
The South African Human Rights Commission says they cannot rule out the possibility that the recent unrest at Soweto, south of Johannesburg is related to xenophobia. Over 80 foreign-owned shops have been looted in the area this week and at least 120 people have been arrested. It's believed the looting began after a 14-year-old boy was shot and killed allegedly by a Somali shop owner. A foreign national was also killed in the violence. Researcher at the African Centre for Migration and Society at the Wits University, Jean-Pierre Misago, he says what is happening in Soweto is xenophobia...
Former national police commissioner, Jackie Selebi, has died at the age of 64. The ANC has confirmed that he died this morning. Selebi was granted medical parole soon after being sentenced to 15 years on charges of corruption in 2010. ANC Deputy Secretary General, Jessie Duarte..
The North Gauteng High Court has ruled that the police cannot unilaterally suspend Hawks boss Anwa Dramat. An application was brought by the Helen Suzman Foundation for Police Minister Nathi Nhleko's decision to suspend Dramat to be set aside. On 23 December, Dramat was suspended, apparently pending a probe into his alleged involvement in the illegal rendition of four Zimbabweans in November 2010: Director of the Helen Suzman Foundation, Francis Antonie & Police Minister Spokesperson Musa Zondi...
Forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan and fierce critic of the late former national police commission Jackie Selebi says he is also saddened by his death. He says Selebi has found peace after a long illness and being in and out of courts... Forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan & listener, Mami Rathebe...
Staring into the night's sky tonight, the International Space Station will be visible like a shining star racing through the darkness of space. The ISS is the largest spacecraft in orbit around Earth and is one of the brightest objects in the sky. Professor Peter Martinez is an astrophysicist coordinating the Space Studies programme at UCT...
Positioning and profiling South Africa as an attractive destination for investment is the job of Brand South Africa at the World Economic Forum. Brand SA's chairperson Chichi Maponya...
Government has approved an additional loan guarantee of close to six and a half billion rand for South African Airways (SAA). This takes the total guarantees granted to the airline to 14.4 billion rand. The Treasury says in a statement the guarantees were granted on condition that the airline provides details of a comprehensive 90-day rescue plan within a month. Spokesperson for the National Treasury, Jabulani Skhakhane...
A war of words is brewing between the former State Prosecutor Glynnis Breytenbach and the Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Michael Masutha. Breytenbach says the country's criminal justice has become an exploited and compromised entity under the leadership of President Jacob Zuma. Chairperson of the Parliament's portfolio committee on Justice and Correctional services, Dr. Mathole Motsekga....
Wits University may be shut down after students in search of state aid threatened to disrupt the registration of new students. Problems started after many students complained that state funds due to them had not been paid by NSFAS. The South African Students Congress (SASCO) accused the University of not wanting to take any students who require financial help from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. Spokesperson for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Kagiso Mamabolo.....
Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle has lambasted learners for their late arrival on the first day of schooling. He has been addressing learners at Lwandlekazi High School at New Brighton in Port Elizabeth as part of a visit to ensure that teaching and learning resumes immediately. Masualle says late arrival at schools contributes to the dismal results the province attained in the past few years. Lwandlekazi achieved a 30 per cent pass rate in the 2014 matric results. Deputy Director General: Institutional Operations Management at the Eastern Cape Education Department, Dr Soyile Nuku.....
Sentencing proceedings against apartheid chemical expert Wouter Basson by the Health Professions Council have been postponed until Thursday. This comes after Basson's legal team obtained an urgent court interdict preventing the HPCSA's Conduct Committee from proceeding with the hearings. HPCSA spokesperson Charmaine Motloung...
Thousands of people in flood-hit southern Malawi are stranded without aid. Doctors without borders, or MSF estimate nearly 20-thousand people have be cut off from food and healthcare after bridges and roads were destroyed. The medical charity's emergency teams are responding to the humanitarian emergency. Amaury Grégoire is MSF's head of mission in Malawi...
Tension remains tense at Malamulele in Limpopo following several incidents of violence last night. A shop was looted and official vehicles pelted with stones, as residents continued with their protests. They're demanding a separate municipality and have shut down all services they regard as non-essential, including schooling. Chairperson of the Demarcation Board, Jane Thupana...
All the roads in Malamulele, Limpopo have been blockaded by protesting residents. This as residents embark on a second week of total shut down of non essential services as they demand their own municipality. Motorists travelling in the area are not allowed to pass through, except the health workers and police officers. A community member from Malamulele, Choky Baloyi...
Eskom says the electricity supply situation is no longer about whether there will be load shedding over the coming months and years, but about how to live with load shedding. The state power utility says it needs a buffer of five thousand megawatts to carry out routine maintenance without collapsing the national grid, but with the commissioning of new power units still pending, such reserve margin can only be accumulated through rotational load shedding. South Africa Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Acting CEO, Peggy Drodskie...
COSATU is disappointed that the Urban Tolling System (E-tolls) have not been scrapped in its entirety by the Gauteng review panel. The labour federation says the most shocking comment from the panel is its assertion that "there is general acceptance of the user-pay principle". COSATU spokesperson Patrick Craven...
Seven farmers have been murdered this year. Afriforum says the Deputy Agriculture Minister, Bheki Cele is misleading the public by claiming that the crimes have nothing to do with race. AfriForum and TAU SA has just announced farm murder statistics for 2014 and their plan of action. Deputy CEO of AfriForum Ernst Roets...
The National Freedom Party says it is expanding its focus out of KwaZulu-Natal to other provinces such North West, Limpopo and Mpumalanga as it prepares for the upcoming 2016 Local Government Elections. In 2011 the party contested its first elections and won 227 seats. It also controls 19 hung municipalities with the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal. It was formed by former IFP chairperson, Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi and her supporters who broke away from the IFP. NFP National Secretary and party's Chief Whip at the National Assembly, Prof. Nhlanhla Khubisa...
The High Court in Pretoria has heard that Police Minister Nathi Nhleko is not ready to go ahead with arguments on the matter involving the suspended national head of the Hawks, Anwar Dramat. The Helen Suzman foundation has brought an urgent application in a bid to overturn Dramat's suspension. Dramat was suspended on the 23rd of last month over the illegal rendition of four Zimbabwean nationals in 2010. Director of the foundation, Francis Antonie......
The notice to suspend Gauteng Hawks head Maj-Gen Shadrack Sibiya has been withdrawn. Sibiya was due to head to the Labour Court today, to challenge the suspension notice from the Hawks. Earlier today, Sibiya's lawyer told Sapa that they've not received any communication from the State Attorney's office. The charge relates to Sibiya's alleged involvement in facilitating the illegal rendition of Zimbabweans. Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi...
The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has slammed what it calls- the 'vicious, ruthless attacks against civilians' in North Eastern Nigeria. The UN estimates that around 15-thousand people have been displaced by the violence. Nigerian TV journalist from Gotel Africa - Lionel Luqman Skink...
Over hundred and forty schools did not re-open today in Malamulele and the surrounding villages in Limpopo as a result of the protest action in the area. Since Monday the residents of Malamulele, shut down services and stopped all activities in the community. They are demanding to be granted an independent municipality from Thulamela local municipality. The protest will continue through out this week . Spokesperson for the department of education in Limpopo, Paena Galane...
Gauteng's MEC for Education, Panyaza Lesufi is at Boitumelong Secondary School in Tembisa, East of Johannesburg, where he is launching the big Switch On project which is set to go live tomorrow as schools re-open. The Big Switch On Pilot project is the first step taken by the department in mordernising public education and the Project will work towards introducing smart paperless classrooms. Gauteng MEC of Education, Panyaza Lesufi...
Eskom has warned that the power grid remains under pressure today. There is no indication of rolling blackouts but the system is vulnerable. It means that any extra load or faults in the system may lead to load-shedding. The Steel and Engineering Industries Federation says manufacturing production saw a one percent decline between October and November last year. Seifsa chief economist Henk Langenhoven....
Angry community of Malamulele in Limpopo vow to shut down schools and businesses in the area until their demand of an independent municipality from Thulamele local municipality is met. The week long protest started yesterday. Teachers who were suppose to prepare and finalise the admission process of learners ahead of the opening of schools tomorrow did not report for duty. Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Pravin Gordhan...
World renowned archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass has used his platform to raise awareness of Egypt's antiquities. Hawass who has lead Presidents on personal tours through the pyramids in Cairo, will be visiting South Africa later this month. He will present a multimedia presentation on Pyramids, Mummies and Cleopatra. Egypt's former head of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Dr Zahi Hawass...
Nelson Mandela's grandson, chief Mandla Mandela has arrived at the Mthatha High Court in the Eastern Cape where an application to stop a meeting of the AbaThembu Royal Family at Qunu, will be heard. Mandela's former wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela approached the court on the grounds that the Qunu home is her property and anyone convening a meeting there without her permission would be trespassing. Our reporter, Nkululeko Nyemebezi
The risk of rolling blackouts is high this week. Eskom says the electricity grid is under extreme pressure. This comes as weekend reports suggest that the power utility needs 20 billion rand to remain operational. Eskom Spokesperson, Andrew Etzinger...
The SA Police Services' intention to suspend the Head of the Hawks in Gauteng, Major General Shadrack Sibiya, will be argued in the Labour Court on Wednesday. The court has granted Sibiya an interdict against his suspension. Last week The SAPS requested Sibiya to provide reasons why he should not be suspended with regard to the alleged illegal rendition of Zimbabweans from South Africa. Hawks Acting Spokeperson, Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi...
The residents of Malamulele in Limpopo say they are determined to continue with their protest action until national government gives them attention. The residents today launched a week long protest demanding to be granted a separate municipality from Thulamela local municipality. Malamulele community members are accusing the municipality of only delivering services to the Thohoyandou area while neglecting theirs. community member from Malamulele, Choky Baloyi...
The ANC will rally support in the Southern Cape today ahead of its hundred and third birthday celebrations on Saturday in Cape Town. Independent Political Analyst Ralph Mathekga.....
A new shooting incident in South Paris, France leaves three people injured. This follows yesterday deadly attack on the satirical magazine- Charlie Hebdo. SANEF chairperson, Mpumelelo Mkhabela...
President Jacob Zuma and the ruling party's top brass have been criss-crossing the Western Cape province to drum support ahead of the annual January 8th statement which will be delivered by Zuma at the Cape Town stadium on Saturday. ANC is turning 103. ANC NEC Member and the party's head of communication, Lindiwe Zulu....
South Africa has come a long way since the introduction of the Outcome Based Education. Different systems of education together with allegations of lack of teacher training and skills to implement new school curriculum has often been blamed for the country's dropping standard of education. Wits University's Head of Division: Languages, Literacy and Literature, Professor Leketi Makalela......
Matric 2014 results are out, not all learners will be able to afford university education... Prospective students who are unable to secure placement at universities sometimes find themselves registering at private colleges. But, not all colleges are legal and above board, some of the colleges are bogus institutions. CEO of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), Joe Samuels...
Eskom is warning South Africans to use power sparingly as the national power grid is tight on supply. Eskom Acting Spokesperson Khulu Phasiwe.....
Justice Minister Michael Masutha released matric results for prisoners across the country. Only a 102 prisoners reportedly sat down to write the 2014 Matric Examinations. Justice and Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha.....
Tap water in Carolina at the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality in Mpumalanga is said to be contaminated with mine acid again after the recent rains. Many community members say they now prefer buying drinking water than risking their lives. Head of Technical service at the Chief Albert Luthuli municipality, Walter Mgomezulu...
A report by the National Treasury titled - The state of local government finances and financial management, has painted a bleak picture of the country's 278 municipalities, with 86 of them in financial distress and 34 more needing close monitoring. Some municipalities are under spending this despite growing number of violent service delivery protests across the country, communities demanding basic services like water and electricity. Jan Hattingh who is the Chief Director of Local Government Budget Analysis Intergovernmental Affairs at the National Treasury...
The Constitutional Court has ruled in favour of the Sekhukhune royal family in their protracted battle of the Bapedi Kingship with the Mampuru royal family. The Mampuru royal approached the ConCourt to question the validity of a decision taken by the Commissioner of Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims, regarding the Kingship. The commission had declared Sekhukhune the rightful leader of the Bapedi. This followed a dispute about whether the kingship resorted under the lineage of Kgosi Sekhukhuhe the 1st or Kgosi Mampuru the 2nd, who fought each other for the throne in the second hand of the eighteen hundreds (1800s). Prince Phathudi Thulare- he is the grandson of King Sekhukhune..
The National Health Department has confirmed the prevalence of measles cases in five provinces - Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape and Western Cape. Health ministry spokesperson Joe Maila says about 49 laboratory confirmed measles cases have been noted since the beginning of this year. He says majority cases were reported in the Northern Cape with 18 measles detected up-to-date. Maila says the department is working tirelessly with the National Institute for communicable Diseases (NICD) to contain the virus and ensure that it is not spreading: National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Professor Lucille Blumberg...
The National Treasury says municipalities are under-spending despite the growing number of service delivery protests, communities demanding basic services such as water and electricity. A report that focusing on the management of finances by municipalities, paints a bleak picture of the country's 278 municipalities, with 86 of them in financial distress and 34 more needing close monitoring
Shrien Dewani is flying home first class this afternoon after he was discharged yesterday regarding the murder of his young wife Anni. Dewani passed through customs at Cape Town International Airport to fly back to the UK. Judge Janet Traverso strongly criticised the state's witness when she discharged Dewani at the high Court in Cape Town. Our reporter Berenice Moss..
The Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa says the country's power shortages have cost the steel and engineering sectors six billion rands in lost output. Power utility Eskom has started a series of power blackouts across the country over the last three weeks. Eskom says the power system will remain tight until the Medupi and Kusile power stations start producing power, in over a year. Energy Intensive Users Group's Shaun Nel
The South African Human Rights Commission's chairperson, Advocate Lawrence Mushwana says Informal trading in townships has been identified as one of key areas of conflict between foreign-nationals and locals. He was addressing delegates at the two day workshop focusing on challenges faced by foreign nationals who own small businesses in South Africa. SAHRC's CEO Kayum Ahmed...
British businessman, Shrien Dewani, is a free man. This comes after Western Cape High Court Judge, Jeanette Traverso, acquitted him on all five charges. Dewani was accused of planning a hit on his wife Anni Dewani during their honeymoon in Cape Town four years ago. Traverso ruled that there was insufficient evidence to convict the accused...
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities says the Ukuthwala practise is sometimes abused. The commission released a report on the practise. The report intends to create a clear distinction between ukuthwala and abduction and find viable solutions. The Commission's chairperson, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva says some of the girls told them after they were abducted - the men demonstrated to younger men how to rape them. Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Chairperson, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva...
Foundation phase learners have performed well in the 2014 Annual National Assessments this year, but the higher grades performed not that well. This is in line with the last two years where results have shown that the higher learners move in the education system their performance deteriorates. This year Grade three learners scored 68 percent in Maths while Grade nine learners scored ten-point-eight percent. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga released the results this morning in Diepsloot North of Johannesburg. Basic Education's Acting Director General of Curriculum Policy Support, Matanzima Mweli.......
There are still over 7500 level crossings in South Africa today. Together, they represent a significant safety hazard to both road and rail users. Transnet and The Ministry of Public Works have announced a strategic plan to reduce accidents on railway crossings. Chief Operations Officer: Transnet Freight Rail, Mlamuli Buthelezi.....
Finance union- Sasbo says it has signed a memorandum of understanding with the curator of African Bank which would ensure job protection. The bank was placed under curatorship in August and a consortium involving major banks had committed to underwrite a 10 billion capital raising and would engage with shareholders and other participants. SASBO's National Secretary, Myan Soobramoney...
The South African Savings Institute is hoping that you won't be in debt after a fun Festive Season. The institute has embarked on a campaign aimed at raising awareness on saving and also guide consumers on how to avoid unnecessary consumption expenditure. Chairperson of the South African Savings Institute, Prem Govender....
The SADC Mediation Mission in Lesotho led by Deputy President, Cyril Ramaphosa is now facing delays from the army on the implementation of the Maseru Security Accord. Last month, heads of the police and the army in Lesotho agreed to go on a leave of absence within 21 days. Correspondent in Lesotho, Nthakoana Ngatane & Founding Editor of Consultancy Africa Intelligence (CAI)'s Africa Conflict Monitor, James Hall..
Two South African boys who were found fending for themselves in the streets of Brazil have arrived in Johannesburg. The boys who are aged seven and 13, are believed to have gone with their mother to Brazil where she was recruited to traffic drugs to Portugal. The woman has been jailed in Portugal where she's awaiting trial. Brazilian authorities found the children and sent them to the South African mission in Sao Paulo. Spokesperson for the Department of Social Development Lumka Oliphant…
Cosatu has filed a response to Numsa's court challenge at the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg. Numsa filed court papers is demanding specific charges to prepare its defence against expulsion from the labour federation. The union has been asked to give reasons why it should not be expelled from the federation. Cosatu President Sdumo Dlamini.....
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the Labour Relations Indaba as the first step in a process of negotiating concrete solutions to South Africa's prevailing labour market instability, as well as serious wage inequality. Government is also set to investigate the possibility of introducing a national minimum wage as a key tool to reduce income inequality. Labour Analyst, Andrew Levy...
South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the National Treasury have released the 2014 Tax Statistics Bulletin. The Bulletin contains insights into tax policy and is a handy platform on which to base debates around fiscal sustainability. SARS Group Executive Revenue Analysis, Dr Randall Carolissen...
According to the World Bank's report on fiscal policy and redistribution in an unequal society, South Africa has lifted 3.6 million people out of poverty and cuts the rate of extreme poverty by half, as a result of its use of fiscal policy. This mainly through the use of social grants. The report further states that tax and social benefits effectively redistribute income from the rich to the poor. Catriona Purfield an Economist at the World Bank...
The Basic Education department says the investigations into a teachers jobs scam has started in earnest. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga set up the team after a number of news reports alleging that officials, including from trade unions, were selling jobs. Basic Education Spokesperson, Elijah Mhlanga......
Power utility Eskom says its contingency plan to restore the supply of electricity throughout the country is going well. Eskom says about 1200 mega watts of electricity is coming out of the station and it expects the number to increase. Eskom started with load-shedding yesterday after one of the coal silos at the Majuba power station in Mpumalanga collapsed. Meanwhile, Economist, Mike Schussler says heavy industries and small businesses will be the hardest hit by the rolling black outs. CEO of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Neren Rau...
The African Vaccine Regulatory Forum is meeting in Pretoria to seek ways of expediting the approval of vaccines for the Ebola virus. The meeting follows the World Health Organisation's decision to welcome the approval by Swissmedic, the Swiss regulatory authority for therapeutic products, for an Ebola vaccine trial. The U.N. agency last week confirmed that four thousand-951 of the infected people had died from Ebola mostly in West African countries of Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia. World Health Organisation's Dr Dicky Akammori to give us the general overview of the Ebola virus.....
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has agreed to provide free transport to all three of the funerals of the sports stars who will be buried tomorrow. PRASA spokesperson, Moffet Mofokeng...
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) says there are no confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD) in South Africa associated with the current outbreak in West Africa. This follows fears that a KwaZulu-Natal man who returned from work in Sierra Leone where he is a fleet manager for a construction company complained of mild symptoms and feared the risk of having contracted Ebola. Deputy-Director, Head of Division, and Head of Travel Health at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), Professor Lucille Blumberg.....
The Communications Workers Union has voiced concern over the on-going Post Office strike. Union says it has now revised its wage demand in an effort to end the crippling strike at the South African Post Office. The union initially demanded a 15% wage hike and immediate permanent contracts for casual workers. Communications Workers Union General Secretary, Aubrey Shabalala...
The Southern African country of Zambia is a nation in mourning. Citizens have been informed by the local broadcasting service that the country's president, Michael Sata, has died at the age of 77. Sata passed away yesterday in London and government has promised to keep the citizens informed about funeral arrangements and the next step politically. Sata was receiving treatment in a London hospital for an undisclosed illness. He had not been seen in public since mid- September, when he failed to make a scheduled speech at the United Nations general Assembly. Zambian High Commissioner to South Africa, Muyeba Chikonde...
he Eastern Cape department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs is hosting a three-day Traditional Initiation Summit. The objective of the meeting is to find solutions to challenges faced by the practice. Over thirty initiates died during the winter initiation season and dozens more were hospitalized. At the time the department decided to combine medical male circumcision and traditional circumcision as a solution. Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mamnkeli Ngam...
Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown says the struggling state-run airline South African Airways (SAA) might consider getting a strategic partner, this as government looks for ways to cut costs. SAA has deep financial problems and Its board has been torn apart by infighting for the past few years. Minister Brown yesterday, replacing most of its board and stating her preference for an equity partner as a way out of its troubles. To date, the National flag carrier has received two government bailouts totalling to 10-billion-rands. Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown
The minister of Social Development, Bathabile Dlamini has set up a ministerial committee to help address the challenges facing the country's foster care system. The establishment of the committee follows a 2011 North Gauteng high court ruling which reinstated a number of lapsed foster care orders. The committee will also tackle issues such as inadequate supervision of foster placements by social service professionals and foster parents not submitting extension orders to South African Social Security Agency. Deputy Director General for Social Services, Connie Nxumalo...
Members of the National Union of Mineworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) are marching in Ekurhuleni over the 50-billion-rand Transnet tender, to build over a thousand locomotives that was awarded to four foreign-owned companies. Numsa is calling for government to review the tender as it threatens thousands local jobs. The union also says the tender will benefit only well-connected politicians and individuals. Numsa's Deputy General Secretary, Karl Cloete & Transnet's Group Chief Executive, Brian Molefe...
A coalition of over 2 hundred civil organisations is calling for the World Bank to shut down, saying the bank has reached retirement age. The groups is saying the bank, which turns 70 this year is now suffering one of its most severe credibility crises with policies and practices long considered destructive. The groups will protest around the world today, as the bank's annual meeting starts in Washington. Patrick Bond, director at the UKZN centre for civil society
Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi says an issue of South African companies spinning off their assets is a matter that should be dealt with. Ramatlhodi conceded that there is uncertainty over the country's mining laws and that there appears to be disinvestment from SA. He was addressing the 2014 Joburg Indaba on investing in mining and resources. National Union of Mine workers (NUM) General Secretary Frans Baleni.....
Government is forging ahead with reducing the country's municipalities. The Municipal Demarcation Board proposes that the country's 278 municipalities be reduced through mergers to 267 before the next local government elections in 2016. Opposition parties are against this proposal with the DA already inidicating that it will go to court to oppose the merging of the DA-run Midvaal municipality with the ANC-run Emfuleni municipality in Gauteng. Chairperson of the Municipal Demarcation Board, Jane Thupana...
A passenger has been killed and the driver wounded in crossfire from an apparent shoot-out between taxi bosses in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. Reports are that the shooting is related to taxi violence in the area. Gauteng Police spokesperson, Captain Augustinah Selepe...
Former ANC MP Ben Turok has reportedly called on President Jacob Zuma to pay back a portion of the two hundred and forty six million spent on improvements to his private Nkandla homestead in KwaZulu-Natal. This is as the Ad hoc Committee on Nkandla is due to release its findings on three reports on the upgrades. Chairperson of the DA's Federal Executive Committee, James Selfe
Over 50-million-rands has been spent by 17 municipalities in Mpumalanga to acquire the services of consultants in this financial year. Auditor-General, Kimi Makwetu during the presentation of the 2012/2013 municipal audit report , pointed out key problems affecting municipalities such as the shortage of skilled administrators and the use of consultants. Makwetu also found that of the17 municipalities using the services of consultants, only one received a clean audit, while another received an unqualified audit with findings, 11 received a qualified with findings and four received a disclaimer of opinion. Mpumalanga MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Sikhumbuzo Kholwane...
Eskom says it will cut off electricity supply to three municipalities in the Free State. Ngwathe, Dihlabeng and Maluti-a-Phofung municipalities owe the power utility about seven hundred and thirty six million rand and now Eskom says they have only today to pay up, make arrangement to pay or face power cuts. Eskom Spokesperson, Tony Stott
Eskom has threatened to disconnect electricity supply to three municipalities in the Free State today. Maluti-A-Phofung, Ngwathe and Dihlabeng municipalities owe Eskom 736-million rand. Eskom had previously extended the deadline to the municipalities sufficient to settle their arrears. This after the Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department intervened. Free State Provincial Spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi
Transport Minister, Dipuo Peters, is today handing over the almost ten-billion-rand Moloto Rail Development Project to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa in Pretoria. The Moloto Corridor Development Feasibility was initiated to improve the public transport system on the Moloto road between Mpumalanga and Gauteng. Transport Spokesperson Tiyani Rikhotso......
SADC Facilitator Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa has brokered a deal for the parliament of Lesotho to open on the 17th of October, and elections to be held in February 2015. This after he concluded three days of his third visit in Lesotho and facilitated the signing of the Maseru Declaration. Ramaphosa says all parties in parliament were consulted and they agreed to open parliament only to pave the way for elections. The Director for Elections at the independent Electoral Commission of Lesotho, Mphasa Mokhochane
Yesterday we spoke to the Social Justice Coalition- a social organisation. on the findings of a report they did on janitorial services for shared communal flush toilets in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. The reported says the city was failing on the janitorial service. With those living in informal settlements being left without access to safe and dignified toilets and workers facing life threatening risks. Cape Town's member of the Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services, cllr Ernest Sonnenberg
Only 36 per cent, or 188 out of 528 toilets visited during a social audit on Cape Town's janitorial services, were found to be clean inside. The Social Justice Coalition (SJC) released a report of the social audit on janitorial services for shared communal flush toilets in Khayelitsha. The report concluded that the City of Cape Town was failing on the janitorial service. With those living in informal settlements being left without access to safe and dignified toilets and workers facing life threatening risks. Social Justice Coalition (SJC) Spokesperson, Axolile Notywala
Residents of Etwatwa on the East Rand and Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg, are still experiencing water shortages despite assurances by government that the water supply has been stabilised. On Monday, Water and Sanitation Minister Nomvula Mokonyane said water supply had been normalised in all the affected areas in Gauteng. DA's parliamentary Leader, Mmusi Maimane
The Democratic Alliance in marching to the offices of the department of transport over the Urban Tolling System (E-Tolls). The protest march coincides with a deadline that was set by the DA's parliamentary Leader, Mmusi Maimane for the minister of transport, Dipuo Peters to respond to his meeting request. DA's Parliamentary Leader, Mmusi Maimane...
The on-going Post Office national strike is having a serious impact on the operations of enterprises across the country. About 900 workers are being recorded absent per day as they demand salary increases and permanent posts. Communications Workers Union's President Clyde Mevin
Northern Cape ANC says it will welcome the party's Intergrity Commitee's recommendation that provincial chairperson John Block be sacked. Provincial secretary, Zamani Saul says the committee's preliminary recommendation is that Block, Local Government MEC Alvin Botes and ANC MP Yolanda Botha step down. The three are facing fraud, corruption and money laundering charges for the leasing of government buildings. The Provincial secretary, Zamani Saul
The on-going Post Office national strike is having a serious impact on the operations of enterprises across the country. About 900 workers are being recorded absent per day as they demand salary increases and permanent posts. Post Office Group Communications Executive Lungile Lose.....
The National Health and Allied Workers Union says declining public service delivery should be of grave concern for government. Nehawu says it plans to protest about poor quality public service especially in the public health system. Nehawu's Deputy General Secretary Zola Saphetha
The DA says launching an investigation of alleged misconduct against Phiyega will be welcomed. This after a weekend newspaper report that claimed that a committee would investigate, among others, allegations that she tipped off Western Cape police commissioner Arno Lamoer about an investigation against him by crime intelligence, and that she misled the public when she claimed she was not aware lieutenant-General Mondli Zuma faced criminal charges when she appointed him Gauteng police commissioner. DA's Shadow Minister of Police, Dianne Kohler Barnard
Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi has revealed irregular expenditure amounting to a total of about 34-point nine billion of rand incurred by the department from 2009 to date. Nxesi says the discovery was made possible by the on going internal and external investigation processes launched two years ago. Chief Financial Officer at the Department of Public Works, Cox Mogoro
The ANC is worried about its electoral support base ahead of the 2016 local government elections. The party's majority reduced during the May 2014 general elections. Senior ANC NEC member Jeff Radebe says the party is facing challenges ranging from corruption to reduced credibility in the eyes of many voters. Radebe, who is also the party's policy chief, says the ANC will have to reinvent itself during its national general council meeting in June next year. The ANC's National spokesperson Zizi Kodwa
The South African Weather Services has issued a warning that Gauteng residents and neighbouring provinces should brace themselves for severe thunderstorms and heavy winds later today. Meanwhile, heavy rainfalls are expected to persist along the coast of the Eastern Cape between Port Elizabeth and East London. Forecaster at the South African Weather Services, Christina Thaler
Office of the president denies reports that President Jacob Zuma has ordered an investigation into Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega. Reports say President Zuma issued the instruction to Police Minister Nathi Nhleko before his departure for a UN meeting in New York last week to put together a ministerial committee to look into allegations of misconduct against Phiyega. Presidential Spokesperson, Mac Maharaj....
Labour union-NUMSA lose another court case... The Labour Court in Johannesburg has ruled in favour of the National Employers Association of South Africa (NEASA) in preventing the extension of the metals industry wage agreement, to non-signatories. The interim relief comes after Neasa lodged an urgent application with the court. it wanted the court to prevent the Metal and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council, from asking the labour minister to extend the July wage agreement, between the employer body- Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of SA and NUMSA, to those who were not party to that agreement. Numsa's general secretary Irvin Jim.
The ruling party and opposition parties sitting on Parliament's ad hoc committee on Nkandla, have stuck to their proposals made last night. Opposition parties moved that a list of people, including President Jacob Zuma, should be drawn up to appear before the committee. But the ANC disagreed. The parties adjourned when they could not find consensus after a marathon meeting. This morning, not one of the parties are willing to budge. The committee was established to look at President Jacob Zuma's response to reports from the Public Protector, Special Investigations Unit and the Security cluster into the Nkandla multi million rand upgrades. Freedom Front Plus MP Corne Mulder has warned that decisions by the committee have huge Constitutional implications. His colleague from the EFF, Julius Malema, cautioned that if individuals are not allowed to be summoned to the committee, the committee will collapse. The Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC)'s Lawson Naidoo
Water has been restored to most areas of Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni. This follows days of water shortages in three Metros in Gauteng. Several factors have been blamed, including copper cable theft and infrastructure development issues. Rand Water's Chief Operation Officer, Sipho Mosai
The 152 KZN examination centres that have been granted approval by Umalusi to release the May/June Senior Certificate examination results. This after the results were withheld pending investigation into a number of systemic irregularities at some of the centres in the Province. Umalusi Spokesperson, Lucky Ditaunyane
Zimbabweans living in South Africa under the Dispensation of Zimbabweans Project, can soon start applying for a three-year extension of their special permits. The permits will allow immigrants to continue to work, study and conduct legal business in the country until December 2017. The special permits were issued in 2009, and will expire in December this year. Qualifying Zimbabweans can apply for new permits from the 1st of October. Home Affairs Spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete
Tshwane University of Technology's Students Representative Council has approached the North Gauteng High Court to challenge what they call the unlawful eviction of students. The university closed all its campuses at the weekend following a spate of violent protests during which 18 cars were set alight. Students are protesting against the lack of funds in the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. TUT Central SRC Student Affairs and Residence Operations Officer , Dimpho Xaba
President Jacob Zuma has signed into law the controversial Legal Practice Bill. The legislation will bring an end to the long tradition of self-regulation by the legal fraternity. It will replace bar associations with a single council. The presidency says signing the bill into law brings to fruition many years of discussions, negotiations and even concessions that began in the time of the late Dullah Omar- democratic South Africa's first minister of justice. Co-chairman of the Law Society of South Africa, Max Godwana
A municipal buildings has been burned to the ground in Kirkwood, Eastern Cape during service delivery protests in the area. Protesters from the Moses Mabida Township are causing havoc in the central business area over a lack of service delivery, and they are also disgruntled about fruitless expenditures by the municipality. Our Reporter, Mzukisi Solani...
The National Credit Regulator (NCR) has applied to the National Consumer Tribunal to cancel the registration of Moneyline Financial Services- A Financial services provider. Moneyline Financial Services is accused of granting credit to consumers receiving child support grants and foster child grants without assessing the consumers' ability to repay credit. National Credit Regulator investigations and enforcements manager, Nthopang Magolego...
Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel has launched a five million rand Green Skills Hub in Alexandra. The Green Skills Hub is aimed at promoting local economic development in the township through skills development and job creation facilitation in the Green Economy. Economic Development Minister, Ebrahim Patel
South Africa has signed a nuclear power co-operation deal with Russia to build up to eight nuclear reactors over the next 16 years. A deal that will cost us over hundred billion rand. Critics say this is a bad move for South Africa and that Government should have waited a little long to asses the dangers and implication of such a deal. Group Executive Manager at the South African Nuclear Energy (NECSA), Xolisa Mabhongo
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has ruled that the deportation of Botswana national Edwin Samotse was illegal and unconstitutional. Samotse was wrongfully deporting from Polokwane prison last month, despite several attempts to draw its attention to a non-surrender order from the minister of justice and correctional services. The judgment follows Lawyers for Human Rights and Legal Aid South Africa's application in a bid to compel Home Affairs to locate Samotse. Lawyers for Human Rights' David Cote
Several parts of Johannesburg are still without water. Last week we spoke to Rand Water and they said they were attending to the problem, but it seems like the issue is persisting in some parts of the city. Spokesperson for Johannesburg Water, Millicent Kabwe ...
Murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstance, common robbery and theft out of motor vehicles increased over the past year while sexual offences decreased. National Police commissioner, Riah Phiyega
Crime Statistics have shown that murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstance, common robbery and theft out of motor vehicles increased over the past year while sexual offences decreased. There has been almost two thousand violent community protests in the country over the 2013/2014 financial year. This has been revealed by Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega in Pretoria during the unveiling of the national crime statistics. Head of Crime and Justice at the Institute for Security Studies, Gareth Newham
The South African Human Rights Commission wrapped a round of public hearings on farm murders in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. Among those who made submissions was a victim of farm attacks, who told the hearings he was shot and left for dead an his Bronkhorspruit farm east of Pretoria, two years ago. The ex-farmer was among the victims and other interested groups who made submissions to the commission. Human rights Commissioner, Dr Danny Titus
The Nigerian Synagogue Church of All Nations has sent condolences to the families of those killed when its guest house collapsed in Lagos. The church says in a statement on its website that each day should be lived as if it was the last. It also said it would pray for the family members and loved ones of the victims. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson, Nelson Kgwete
The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPS) has just made public its new website and e-service functions in a bid to made public access to services and information easier. The commission, whose main functions are registration of companies, co-operatives and Intellectual Property Rights is aimed at simplifying business registration processes, reduce red tape and enhance transparency of companies. We talk to the commissioner at the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, Astrid Ludin.
As many as 300 South Africans were visiting a Pentecostal church in Nigeria last week when a building in the compound collapsed, killing at least 67 people, and an unknown number are still unaccounted for. South African medical doctor, Thandeka Mayekiso frequents TB Joshua's church and was in Nigeria at the time of the incident
National Assembly has rejected the motion of no confidence brought by some of the opposition parties against Speaker Baleka Mbete. The motion was voted against by 234 MPs and no one voted in favour of it. This, after opposition MPs walked out of the House before voting after disagreeng with the ruling party. Midday Live host, Bongi Gwala speaks to UDM leader Bantu Holomisa
The National Federated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Nafcoc) will hold the leadership elections on Monday next week. Factions and leadership squabbles have dominated the business of Nafcoc in the past decade or so. As the organization is 50 today - we look at where NAFCOC is today and try to understand what really went wrong for the organization that was once a beacon of hope for many black aspiring business people. Nafcoc's current President Lawrence Mavundla
The N-two remains closed as residents from the farming town of Grabouw in the Overberg continue to protest for improved services in the area. Meanwhile, Police have fired stun grenades to disperse protestors who have burnt tyres on the highway. The Executive Mayor of TheeWaterskloof, Chris Punt...
Lesotho's coalition leaders have agreed to shorten their governance mandate and bring forward the 2017 general elections. This emerged after an emergency SADC meeting held in Pretoria till late last night. Political disagreements by rival factions in the mountain kingdom triggered an aborted coup on August 30th. President Jacob Zuma who is a SADC peace mediator has rejected calls for military intervention, and has instead pushed for a political solution. Director of the Transformation Resource Centre, Tsoeu Petlana
Bad debt for the country's four leading banks went down almost ten per cent for the six months ended 30th June 2014. The latest PWC banking report says this is as a result of banks tightening their lending criteria a few years ago and regulatory changes in the industry. PWC Banking & Capital Markets Leader, Johannes Grosskopf...
The search is still on to identified if any of South African citizen are among the injured or killed in the building that collapse in Lagos, Nigeria. At least one South African is saying a relative in Lagos was hurt during the collapse. So far 42 people have been reported dead where evangelist, TB Joshua, was holding a service when the structure caved-in. International Relations Spokesperson, Nelson Kgwete...
Lawyers for Human Rights have approached the North Gauteng high court seeking to compel the department of home affairs to locate a Botswana national who was illegally deported back to his home country to face murder charges. Samotse was, until recently, in the custody of the South African authorities, upon being located in Polokwane, Limpopo. The Department of Home Affairs has subsequnently launched an investigation into circumstances that led to the deportation of Edwin Samotse. Human Rights Lawyer, David Cote
Lawyers for Human Rights are taking the Department of Home Affairs to court, after reports that a 26-year-old Botswana National, Edwin Samotse has been deported to his home country where he risks the death penalty. Samotse allegedly murdered his lover in Francistown three years ago, and his brother-in-law reportedly alerted the police to his location here in South Africa... Home Affairs Spokesperson, Mayihlome Tshwete
The lockout of the National Union of Metalworkers South Africa (NUMSA) members by the National Employers Association of South Africa (NEASA) companies is set to continue. The labour court has rejected NUMSA's application to end the statelame, saying employers have the right to lock out employees. NUMSA General-Secretary, Irvin Jim
Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi says government is reclaiming its properties, through the State Property Management Agency. This follows a decision by cabinet, last week to re-establish the agency, in order to oversee all government properties valued at 530-billion-rands. We speak to the minister Thulas Nxesi...
South African's will have free access to national parks for a week from today as part of SANPARKS week. This is part of a national campaign to showcase the best of South Africa's national parks to the country's citizens. SANPARKS' Acting Head of Communications, Raynold Thakgudi tells us more
Democratic Alliance leader Hellen Zille says her party will go ahead and apply for a legal review of the decision to drop charges against President Jacob Zuma. Zille says she has gone through the transcripts of the so called Zuma Spy tapes and there is evidence to support a review. The NPA handed the tapes over to the DA last Thursday following a Supreme Court of Appeals judgement. Bongi Gwala speak to the DA's National Spokeperson, Marius Redelinghuys
The minister of Transport Dipuo Peters and the Deputy Minister of mineral resources, Godfrey Olifant are in Kuruman to try and resolve the 3-month schools closure impasse. Fifty-five Northern Cape schools have been closed since June by residents demanding 130km stretch of tarred road linking their villages to the N14. We spoke to the member the Road Forum in kuruman, James Bareki.
The MK Military Veterans Association has denied ever saying Public Protector Thuli Madonsela was a CIA operative. Its Chairperson Kebby Maphatsoe was reported to have said Madonsela was working for America's intelligence agencies. The claim has since been repeated by the the military veterans deputy minister. Madonsela has since threatened to sue the former ANC armed wing if it doesn't retract the statement. The association's Mike Moroe says they were only questioning her claims of being an MK member.
With just two days to go before Judge Thokozile Masipa gives her verdict in the murder trial of Oscar Pistorius. Experts, including William Booth who is expected to brief the media today on this take on the case, have given thier varied opinions and some predictions of the judgement for the the double-amputee, who shot dead girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day last year.We speak to Founder of June Marks attoneys, June Marks.