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South Africa investigates how it made a part for Russian drones South African authorities said they are investigating how electronic equipment made in the country ended up in Russian drones used to attack Ukraine. The part in question is a laser range finder made by Lightware Optoelectronics, which is based on the outskirts of Pretoria. It can be used to measure distances and trigger detonation, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Ukraine's special envoy for sanctions, said in a social media post. It's unclear how Russia obtained the equipment, which isn't designed for military use, Lightware said in a response to questions this week. It blamed "unscrupulous" purchasers. The range finder was named among components that Ukraine's intelligence services said on their Telegram channel were discovered in Russian drones. Under South African law a company is prohibited from exporting arms to a country engaged in active conflict without the permission of the government's National Conventional Arms Control Committee, or NCACC. "The entity in question is not registered to trade with munitions and dual-use goods and technologies," Sipho Mashaba, the acting director for conventional arms control at the NCACC, said in an emailed response to questions. "This matter will be referred to the inspectors who will visit the premises of the entity to establish the scope of their business as well as the application." The technology built into Lightware's sensors is used in driverless cars and in applications ranging from monitoring ore movements at mines to counting endangered wildlife. The company has reduced the size and weight of the sensors, making it easier to deploy in drones. The sensor was found in a Russian Garpiya-A1 drone, a long-range so-called suicide drone that explodes when it reaches its target, Vlasiuk said this week. Lightware said there was no need to seek export permits because the equipment is only for civilian use. "We do not fall under the ambit of the NCACC," Nadia Nilsen, the company's chief executive officer, said by email. "It appears an unscrupulous operator, without our knowledge, purchased our sensors elsewhere and used them unlawfully in Russia." Following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia sought to ramp up drone production. Documents seen by Bloomberg earlier this year detailed how Moscow used ties with Beijing, for example, to skirt sanctions and gather the know-how and capability to build more of them. Russia has increased its aerial drone barrages in recent months. President Cyril Ramaphosa led an African effort to mediate in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and continues to push for a settlement. South Africa is also trying to repair strained relations with the US after the Trump administration criticised the country's relations with Moscow and Tehran. In February 2023, the US was angered by South Africa holding military exercises with the Russian navy. A few months later, Reuben Brigety, then US ambassador to South Africa, accused the country of shipping arms to Russia. South Africa carried out a judicial probe that found no evidence to substantiate Brigety's claims. After Trump earlier this year falsely accused South Africa of perpetrating a genocide against White people, the US imposed 30% trade tariffs on many imports, the highest for any sub-Saharan African nation, slashed aid and some of its officials boycotted Group of 20 meetings hosted by the nation. With the discovery of the drone part, "certain people are going to jump up and down," said Helmoed-Roemer Heitman, a Cape Town-based military analyst. "It is embarrassing. It's a murky sort of area." South Africa's government communications department didn't respond to a request for comment. In his post on X in August, Ukrainian envoy Vlasiuk described the range finder as being an SF-20/B, a model that Lightware CEO Nilsen said was discontinued in 2020. On Telegram, the intelligence service listed it as an SF-20 range finder. Lightware sel...

DA calls for prosecutions following asset seizure in Tembisa Hospital case The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed the seizure of luxury vehicles and other assets from businessman Hangwani Maumela, one of the central figures in the R2-billion Tembisa Hospital corruption case, and the party is calling for urgency relating to arrests and convictions by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) raided Maumela's home in Sandton in connection with corruption at Tembisa Hospital. In its interim report last month, the SIU revealed that syndicates, including the Maumela Syndicate, linked to Maumela, who is the nephew of President Cyril Ramaphosa, through a previous marriage, were responsible for looting over R2-billion from hospital coffers. DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC Dr Jack Bloom said while the SIU deserved credit for the progress made, its findings were only an interim report. "The final report will only be completed next year, and we know from experience that the NPA is far too slow when it comes to acting on such findings. The NPA must move faster. The evidence is already clear. It's time for prosecutions," he stated. He said while asset seizures were a "good and necessary" step by the SIU, it could not stop here. "South Africans want to see arrests, charges, and convictions. We need the masterminds of this looting in court, not just their cars being loaded onto trucks. "We cannot afford another Life Esidimeni situation, where nine years later not a single person has been charged. The same culture of delay and impunity must not take hold here. The theft at Tembisa Hospital cost lives and crippled basic healthcare. Those responsible must be held to account," he said. Bloom said the next step must ensure stolen funds were recovered and returned to the Gauteng Health Department. The party vowed to keep pressure on the case until justice was done for Babita Deokaran, the whistleblower who was murdered after reporting corruption at the Gauteng Department of Health.

South Africa is on track to meet key fiscal targets, Treasury head says South Africa is on track to meet its two main fiscal targets this year, stabilising its public debt and increasing the size of its primary budget surplus, the head of the National Treasury told Reuters. "We are in a period of fairly healthy budget dynamics," Director-General Duncan Pieterse said in an interview. "Our expectation is that we will meet our primary balance target and we will meet our debt-to-GDP target." Africa's biggest economy has struggled to curb rising public debt after more than a decade of runaway spending that outpaced revenue growth. But this year the fiscal picture looks much better, with Treasury data for the first five months of the 2025/26 financial year showing revenue is up more than 10% and spending only about 4%. Pieterse said spending had slowed in part because of the protracted approval of this year's main budget, which was held up for months by political wrangling between the two main coalition partners, the African National Congress and the Democratic Alliance. "There was a little bit of uncertainty at the beginning of the year because we were still busy finalising the budget and our sense is that uncertainty has found its way through into spending," said Pieterse.

Mkhwanazi's call for State Security Agency to investigate journalists condemned Civil society organisation the Campaign for Free Expression wants the Parliamentary ad-hoc committee investigating allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to ensure that the platform is not used to make "unverified smears". This after Mkhwanazi, during his testimony before the committee, called for journalists to be investigated by the State Security Agency and even face imprisonment for misinformation. Campaign for Free Expression executive director Nicole Fritz said Mkhwanazi's accusations against members of the media were particularly sinister, pointing out that his remarks were made without any substantiation. "…such exhortations do not merely impugn reputations; they place journalists in real danger and threaten those who might approach them with vital disclosures about wrongdoing," she said. Fritz added that credible and verified journalism was indispensable. "Journalists, often operating under threat, have provided the public with critical insight into the activities of the security and justice sectors. It is essential that they be able to continue to do so," she said. Threats and insinuations made against journalists from Parliament disable accountability, she warned. She said while Mkhwanazi was allowed to set out his claims, Parliament must engage and interrogate them seriously. Campaign for Free Expression wants the South African Police Service to reject any suggestion that counter-intelligence operations be conducted against journalists or news organisations. "This is not to suggest that journalists are beyond criticism. They can and do err - as we saw during State capture. And yet without the media, the full predations of the State's capture would never have been exposed. But accusations of misconduct require evidence, not insinuation. Without substantiation, they serve only to erode public trust, chill whistleblowing, and embolden those who profit from secrecy," Fritz argued. Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) laid its support for press self-regulation, and it condemned any attempt by the State or government officials to suppress media freedom and accountability in the country as "unconstitutional and undemocratic". DA national spokesperson Willie Aucamp pointed out that media freedom was a cornerstone of South Africa's democracy and said any attempts by the State to intimidate, silence, or criminalise journalists, attacked the principles that support a free society. He pointed out that journalists had been at the forefront in uncovering the looting of public funds, as in the Tembisa Hospital scandal, as well as exposing municipal failures. "South Africa's journalists and media houses must continue to safeguard their credibility through accuracy, fairness, and ethical integrity, as well as recourse through the press council," he said.

Nathi Mthethwa to receive State funeral Late Ambassador to France Nkosinathi "Nathi" Mthethwa will be given a Special Official Funeral Category 2 at KwaMbonambi in KwaZulu-Natal, on Sunday. The Official Funeral Category 2 declared by President Cyril Ramaphosa will entail ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service. Lat week, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola confirmed Mthethwa's passing, highlighting that the circumstances of Mthethwa's death were under investigation by the French authorities. French media reports said Mthethwa was found dead at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel, a high-rise tower in Porte Maillot in the west of Paris. This after he was allegedly reported missing by his wife Philisiwe Buthelezi. Ramaphosa has also directed that the National Flag be flown half-mast from Thursday morning until the evening of the funeral on Sunday. Mthethwa was appointed as Ambassador to France in December 2023, after serving in Cabinet for 15 years in the portfolios of Sport, Arts and Culture; Arts and Culture; Police, and Safety and Security. Ramaphosa reiterated his condolences to Mthethwa's wife, and the extended Mthethwa and Buthelezi families, and said the nation appreciated the diverse roles in which Mthethwa served the country.

South Africa books 'big wins' on lower inflation, Kganyago says South African central bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said lower inflation has delivered "big wins" by reducing government borrowing costs, vindicating his decision to anchor the rate at the bottom of the bank's 3% to 6% target range. "There are benefits to having a low inflation economy," he told a parliamentary hearing in Cape Town on Thursday, noting prices double every 12 years when inflation averages 6%, but only every 24 years when it averages 3% - urging lawmakers to "make your pick." Yields on South Africa's 10-year bond have fallen to around 9.1% from more than 11% in April, as price pressures eased below 3%. The decline accelerated after Kganyago's July 31 announcement that the central bank prefers inflation to settle at 3%. "Inflation is relatively contained, remaining close to our target" although near-term overshoots "are expected, but are deemed to be temporary," he said. "Indications from the agricultural sector point to food inflation declining going forward." While Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has not formally ratified the new anchor, the National Treasury and the central bank signalled in September that technical work to review the 3%-to-6% target band, which has been in place since 2000, is nearing an end. They said in a joint statement that Godongwana will make an announcement as soon as is practical to anchor expectations. "Sustained low inflation brings about lower and stable interest rates, which is good for investment, employment and growth," Kganyago told the hearing.

ActionSA rejects further ZEP extension ActionSA has rejected further extended validity of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits, saying this represents yet another act of "indecision and weakness" by a government that continues to avoid confronting South Africa's immigration crisis head-on. Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber extended the ZEP until May 28, 2027. He noted that pending the conclusion of consultations, existing ZEPs shall be deemed to remain valid for an additional 18 months after the current expiry date of 28 November 2025. He further highlighted that no holder of the exemption may be arrested, ordered to depart or be detained for purposes of deportation or deported in terms of Section 34 of the Immigration Act for any reason related to him or her not having any valid exemption certificate. Schreiber said the holder of an exemption certificate may be allowed to enter into or depart from the Republic of South Africa in terms of Section 9 of the Immigration Act, read together with the Immigration Regulations, 2014, provided that he or she complied with all other requirements for entry into and departure from the Republic, save for the reason of not having a valid visa endorsed in his or her passport; He explained that no ZEP holder should be required to produce a valid exemption certificate, visa or an authorisation letter to remain in the country as contemplated in Section 32(1) of the Immigration Act when making an application for any category of the visa for temporary sojourn in the country as contemplated in Section 10(2) of the Immigration Act. ActionSA wants Schreiber to publish a comprehensive and time-bound transition plan that sets firm deadlines for the conclusion of consultations and implementation of immigration reforms. "Every further delay deepens social tensions, weakens accountability, and tells law-abiding South Africans that their government lacks the political courage to lead," said ActionSA Parliamentary Chief Whip Lerato Ngobeni. Ngobeni said while the party supported a humane and orderly approach to immigration, it rejected the ongoing pattern of temporary measures that erode public confidence, undermine border integrity, and perpetuate inequality between citizens and foreign nationals. Schreiber said the Immigration Advisory Board appointed in April, had met on several occasions and deliberated amongst themselves on the immediate future and a long-term solution for holders of ZEP permits. He explained that critical stakeholders would need to be part of a consultation process. Ngobeni said South Africa did not need endless extensions. "We need decisive leadership, firm timelines, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. "The Minister's excuse of "ongoing consultations" with the Immigration Advisory Board offers no comfort to South Africans who have waited years for decisive action. There is still no clear, time-bound plan to resolve this long-standing issue, leaving our borders porous and our immigration system in disarray," she said. The party have called on Schreiber to strengthen the Border Management Authority and internal enforcement capacity to decisively curb illegal immigration and restore the integrity of the country's immigration laws by ending this cycle of indefinite extensions.

Ramaphosa appoints panel to select next NDPP Ahead of the end of National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi's term of office, President Cyril Ramaphosa has established a panel for the selection of the next NDPP, appointing Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi as chairperson. Batohi will be required to vacate her office in January 2026, as she reaches the age of 65. Ramaphosa said the next NDPP must be identified through an open and transparent process that reflects the importance of this vital position in the country's democracy. The panel will comprise the chairpersons of the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality, the Auditor-General South Africa, and the Public Service Commission; as well as a representative of both the Black Lawyers Association and the National Association of Democratic Lawyers. Ramaphosa assured that the process of appointing the next NDPP would be the same open and transparent process that led to the appointment of Batohi. Ramaphosa's spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa considered the NDPP a vital position in the country's democracy that made an essential contribution to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the efficiency and integrity of law enforcement. "The NDPP must ensure that the National Prosecuting Authority exercises its functions without fear, favour or prejudice and should not be beholden to any vested interests, whether in politics, in business or elsewhere," he explained. Ramaphosa highlighted that the NDPP needed to be able to take decisions independently and impartially. Magwenya said for this reason, Ramaphosa had mandated the panel to call for nominations in an open and transparent manner, conduct shortlisting and interviews, ensure vetting of suitable candidates, and submit the names of three suitable candidates with a detailed report on suitability for his consideration. The panel final report with recommendations to the President is required within three months of the panel's appointment, he explained.

Mandela's grandson returns to South Africa after deportation by Israel The grandson of late South African president and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela arrived in Johannesburg on Wednesday after being detained and then deported by Israel, which prevented the flotilla he was part of delivering aid to Gaza. Mandla Mandela, who returned home with four other South Africans, said he and the group he was with were held in an Israeli prison for six days before being released via Jordan. "We were handcuffed with cable ties tied tightly behind our backs, taken off our boats, put on the platform and paraded for all ... to see," Mandela, 51, said at the airport, where he was greeted by supporters waving Palestinian flags. "But it's nothing compared to what Palestinians have been subjected to on a daily basis," he said, referring to Israel's military offensive against Hamas since the Palestinian militant group's deadly attack on Israel two years ago. Israel says reports of hunger in Gaza are exaggerated and dismissed the flotilla as a publicity stunt benefiting Hamas. It has denied mistreating the hundreds of people it detained, who included Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

Six S Africans released from Israel The Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation on Tuesday confirmed the release of six South African activists from Israel, saying they will arrive in the country on Wednesday. Last week, activist and former President Nelson Mandela's grandson Mandla Mandela raised the alarm on his arrest and the arrests of 469 other activists, amid global calls for their release and for an end to the conflict between Palestine and Israel. South Africans who were on board the flotilla include Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner and Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver. Last week, in a pre-recorded video Mandela said he was kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla. "…if you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and I have been abducted by the apartheid State of Israel, I call on you to request our government to exact pressure for my immediate release," he said. South African Global Sumud Flotilla detainees were released on Tuesday and will return home via Jordan. The flotilla comprises over 40 vessels with 500 participants from more than 44 countries, making it the largest civilian-led convoy of its kind in history. The activists were enroute to Gaza to deliver food and medical supplies when they were arrested in international waters and detained by the Israeli government. Committee chairperson Supra Mahumapelo welcomed the release of the activists, urging other countries to support a two-State solution approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestine conflict. Mahumapelo said while Palestine supports the creation of the two States, Israeli currently does not support the proposal. "We call for the end of the conflict where the lives of innocent babies, children and women were lost. We call for the seize fire and destruction of both countries," he said.

Eskom's biggest union demands 15% increase ahead of wage talks The biggest union at South Africa's Eskom is demanding a wage increase of as much as 15% ahead of negotiations that are set to begin. The National Union of Mineworkers, representing about 15 000 employees at the State-owned utility, has submitted demands before the central bargaining forum, according to Khangela Baloyi, energy sector coordinator for the labour group. The wage demand, which is more than four times the rate of inflation, follows Eskom's stabilisation of the power grid after years of record blackouts. The utility last week reported its first profit in eight years and plans to raise debt after relying on billions of dollars of government bailouts. South African inflation stood at 3.3% in August. Eskom officials didn't immediately respond to requests for comment. Wage talks could stall early over Eskom's proposal to let unbundled and legally separated entities establish their own union recognition agreements, according to Baloyi. "Decentralising of the bargaining will kill the trade unions," he said, adding that the union wants all entities to conform to agreements made with Eskom's holding company. Eskom has been undergoing a years-long process to split into generation, transmission and distribution units, in a strategy to make the business profitable and open the system to electricity trading that includes private producers. Previous wage talks proved difficult for the utility, even when it claimed to lack the funding for increases. Labour agreed to a 7% annual raise for three years in the midst of acute electricity outages. The current wage agreement is set to expire in June 2026.

DA, MKP unhappy with administrative confusion in Parly Saps committee The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) have called for immediate resolution of all outstanding administrative and procedural issues so the Parliament's ad hoc committee, which is investigating allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. The committee was forced to adjourn on Tuesday following heated arguments between Members of Parliament. The proceedings broke down over a dispute regarding whether Mkhwanazi's submitted statement was an original document or a copy of his earlier testimony to the Madlanga Commission. DA Deputy Spokesperson on Police Ian Cameron said the delays damage Parliament's credibility and question its commitment to accountability. He said the "mismanagement of the committee" undermines its mandate, as well as public confidence in Parliament. "It is deeply frustrating that basic procedural matters, which should have been resolved before the committee convened, are only now being addressed. These preventable delays waste valuable time and raise serious questions about Parliament's commitment to accountability and transparency," Cameron said. MKP MP David Skosana claimed that the legal team "embarrassed" the Ad Hoc Committee and said their "mistakes" must be corrected. He stressed that the committee is not a support arm of the Madlanga Commission and must have its own verified statements to ensure accountability. "…this statement needs to be proper and for us to be able to begin our work and make sure that all the those who have transgression are called to account. We need to make sure that all the shenanigans which general Mkhwanazi have spoken about in July are attended to," he said.

Ramaphosa credits multi-sectoral partnerships for Eskom's profitability President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday that social partners will be important in State-owned enterprise Eskom achieving energy security, as he noted the improvement in its financial position, which he said reflects the significant recovery in its operational performance. Eskom's latest financial results showed a return to profitability for the first time in eight years. In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa credited strong multi-sectoral partnerships for Eskom's financial improvement, as well as consistency and sticking to long-term goals, despite criticism. Ramaphosa said when government announced the National Energy Action Plan in 2022, the national power utility's losses stood at R12.3-billion and its debt had ballooned to over R300-billion. "At the time, Eskom's auditors noted that there was 'material uncertainty relating to Eskom's ability to continue'". "Thanks to the collaboration between different government departments, the stewardship of the National Electricity Crisis Committee (NECOM) and hard work by the leadership and staff of Eskom, Eskom is turning the corner," he said. Eskom's improved financial position will enable it to invest in critical infrastructure and maintenance under its Generation Recovery Plan, Ramaphosa added. He said there are plans to invest more than R320-billion in expanding existing infrastructure. Further, he noted that as the reliability of Eskom's coal-fired plants has improved there has been less needed to burn diesel, resulting in about R16-billion in savings on diesel costs. In the 2025 financial year, the country experienced loadshedding on just 13 days, down from 329 days the year before, with Ramaphosa saying Eskom is to be congratulated on this achievement. He noted that there are still serious challenges, highlighting that municipal debt arrears have grown by 27% since the previous financial year. "…that is why we continue to work with municipalities to come up with sustainable solutions that enable municipalities to settle their accounts with Eskom, as this is key to its financial viability," he said. Government continues to pursue the other pillars of the Energy Action Plan, with Ramaphosa stating that these are accelerating the procurement of new generation capacity, increasing private investment and pursuing structural reforms to transform the electricity sector. The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act that came into effect in January also helped to open the sector and pave the way for a more competitive electricity market. Ramaphosa explained that this legislative amendment allows for the restructuring of Eskom into separate generation, transmission and distribution units, as well as for private sector investment and diversification that will ultimately benefit consumers. "With grid expansion being central to getting more capacity, Eskom, in partnership with the private sector, has plans to build approximately 14 000 km of new transmission lines over the next decade," he said. The role played by these partners in NECOM and the Government Business Partnership has been invaluable, he stressed. "…two years since its inception, this collaborative model continues to yield results not only around energy but also in the other workstreams of transport and logistics, crime and corruption and youth unemployment," he said.

AGOA expiry must prompt South Africa to pursue alternative trade relations - Mavuso The expiry of the US preferential trade framework the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) on September 30 means that South Africa must aggressively pursue alternative trade partnerships through the BRICS bloc and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), says business organisation Business Leadership South Africa CEO Busi Mavuso. While there remains a possibility that AGOA could be extended, it is unclear whether South Africa would be included, given the broader issues that have arisen between the two countries, she notes. In April, when new US tariffs came into force, the US-South Africa trade relationship was under threat. Diplomatic missteps, including the Lady R debacle in 2023, had already damaged relations between the countries prior to the Trump administration taking office. "While trade negotiations with the US are ongoing, and AGOA's renewal should remain an objective, we must confront the reality that AGOA may be consigned to history. "The US trade policy uncertainty means many countries share our ambition to build new, more reliable trade relationships. We must engage while this window of opportunity is open. "The loss of goodwill and perceptions about South Africa's stance on Russia have contributed significantly to this strained relationship. Foreign policy decisions have direct economic consequences, and ambiguity rarely serves national interests," she notes. Further, from May 2000 until its expiry, AGOA enabled about 17% of South African exports to the US to enter duty-free, although some products, particularly raw materials, already enter duty-free under standard trade rules. During this time, AGOA was critically important for South Africa's vehicle manufacturing industry, as well as significant segments of the agriculture, apparel, chemicals and equipment sectors, Mavuso notes. South Africa also accounted for 54% of all AGOA exports to the US, being the largest beneficiary during the 25 years the Act was in place, and the scheme supported high-value jobs in the vehicle, agriculture, apparel and equipment sectors, she adds. Crucially, AGOA supported industries with high domestic value-added content and created substantial numbers of high-quality jobs in South Africa, she emphasises. "Government remains intensely focused on achieving a breakthrough in trade talks with the US. Business stands firmly behind these efforts and works directly with US customers and partners towards mutually beneficial trade arrangements. "In the meantime, South Africa must pivot to focus on forging strategic relationships with the wider world." Meanwhile, AGOA's expiry is also sharply negative for other African countries, with nations like Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho and Madagascar having built competitive apparel and textile industries that could challenge Chinese manufacturers in supplying the US market. In Lesotho, about one-third of exports were tied to AGOA, predominantly in the apparel sector that employed between 30 000 and 40 000 workers, primarily women. US soft power has dramatically weakened on the continent with the expiration of AGOA, risking access to African resources, many of which, including rare earth minerals to manganese and chromium, are critical to US industrial and technological ambitions. The US risks ceding strategic ground to competitors at a time when African nations are actively seeking reliable trade partners, she states. China announced duty-free access for all African nations with which it maintains diplomatic ties, which represents a fundamental realignment of trade patterns that could reshape Africa's global orientation, she points out. Additionally, the BRICS structure also promises several trade opportunities, as does the AfCFTA, though the latter faces significant implementation challenges around infrastructure and regulatory harmonisation, Mavuso notes. "Businesses will actively pursue these new o...

ANC says merit-based appointments will be non-negotiable, as it calls for Economic War Room The African National Congress's (ANC's) National Executive Committee (NEC) has called for the establishment of the Economic War Room in the Presidency to coordinate cross-government performance monitoring and publish regular scorecards on progress, as it assured that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report on Tembisa Hospital will be acted on. Last week, the SIU revealed in its probe into the hospital that three coordinated syndicates are responsible for the looting of over R2-billion from the its coffers. Closing the three-day NEC meeting in Gauteng, ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa said professionalisation and merit-based appointments are going to be non-negotiable. He offered the ANC NEC's support for the implementation of the Public Service Professionalisation Framework, which aims to ensure that the public administration is skilled, ethical and insulated from factional politics. He said corruption corrodes competitiveness. "…we therefore insist on consequence management, lifestyle audits and enforcement of integrity standards across the public sector," he added. He said the SIU reports are proof that the party is serious about fighting corruption. He also stated that governance reform is not only about compliance. "It is about restoring public confidence and trust and enabling the State to lead investment and industrialisation effectively. Economic transformation is the moral and strategic mission of the African National Congress. With coordinated industrial policy, strong institutions and an innovation-driven growth strategy, the nation can reclaim its role as Africa's industrial leader," Ramaphosa said during the meeting. He noted that the capacity of the State to deliver on projects requires "serious" engineering, financial and project management capabilities that need to be rebuilt. "We will want to focus on this at all layers of government - national, provincial and especially local government. We need to rebuild and reform State-owned enterprises (SOEs) to be effective developmental instruments. "We are beginning to see progress in some our SOEs that are improving their performance and attracting talented and competent people. Efficient and well-governed SOEs are vital to economic growth and national competitiveness," he said. REIGNITING GROWTH Meanwhile, he announced the ANC's ten priority interventions, which aims to reignite economic growth amid persisting low economic growth, high unemployment and global trade instability. The ANC will develop a sustainable budget negotiation strategy in the context of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Ramaphosa said poverty, unemployment and the high cost of living affecting South Africans is unacceptable. To tackle this, he said the ANC will align fiscal, monetary, trade and industrial policy, and mobilise development finance institutions and pension funds for productive investment. "In the course of this, we will craft innovative financing mechanisms and processes that will enable us to fund the key catalytic infrastructure projects," he added. The ANC is looking at electricity tariffs and investment in transmission infrastructure to drive economic activity, while accelerating the recovery of the country's freight and logistics sector. Ramaphosa said focus will be on finalising chrome and manganese export tariffs, implementing defensive duties on dumped imports, and expanding alloys and battery precursor production. Focus will also be on improving the capacity of the State to manage major projects and address infrastructure delays. Other focus areas for the party includes driving local economic development and investment in local infrastructure, with a particular focus on townships, rural areas and small towns. It also punted the establishment of local economic development technical units, labour activation initiatives, public employment, and expanding SMME support and invest...

SIU welcomes ruling forcing former SABC board members to pay R11.5m The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) said it will carry out the High Court order against former South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) board members, to ensure the recovery of funds. This after the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, ordered three former SABC board members to pay back R11 508 549.12 tied to their unlawful decision to pay former SABC CEO Hlaudi Motsoeneng a success fee. The order, granted by Judge Allyson Crutchfield, compels Mbulaheni Obert Maguvhe, Ndivhoniswani Aaron Tshidzumba, and Maleshane Audrey Raphela to pay the amount and interest from the date of service of summons, jointly and severally. The former SABC board members are also liable for the SIU's legal costs. Previously, Motsoeneng was the only individual liable for paying the R11.5-million. SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the agency would also refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action. "This ruling is a crucial enforcement action stemming from the broader litigation concerning the unlawful R11.5-million 'success fee' paid to Motsoeneng. The then SABC board paid the fee in August 2016 for his role in securing the MultiChoice deal, a decision subsequently declared unlawful and invalid by the High Court," he explained. He said under the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU was also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. This would be to "protect the public interest and assets through prevention measures and systemic investigations to eradicate fraud, maladministration, and corruption," he said.

Civil society organisations want Malema to step down from JSC Following Economic Freedom Fighters (EEF) leader Julius Malema's conviction in his firearm discharge case, civil society organisations Freedom Under Law, Defend our Democracy, and Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution (CASAC) want Malema to step down as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), and they are also urging the National Assembly to remove him should he decline to step down. The East London Magistrate's Court handed down its verdict at a hearing on Wednesday, where Malema was found guilty of violating the nation's gun laws for firing a weapon at a political rally. In 2018, a video emerged showing Malema firing several shots in the air during his party's fifth anniversary celebrations held in the country's Eastern Cape province. Malema's sentencing will take place on January 23. The organisations believe that the firearms conviction, the hate speech finding, and the parliamentary ethics finding, prove that he should not serve on the JSC. In August, the Equality Court found that certain statements by Malema constituted hate speech and demonstrated a clear intention to incite harm and to promote or propagate hatred. In May, the High Court upheld Parliament's finding that Malema had breached its Code of Ethics for remarks made during a JSC interview in 2021, when he used that platform for his personal interests. The organisations pointed out that Malema was a member of the JSC, having been designated by the National Assembly. "…but not all individuals appointed to the JSC are fit to decide on who should become judges in our country," they said, noting former Judge and uMkhonto we Sizwe Party Member of Parliament John Hlophe's impeachment. In June, the Western Cape High Court ruled that the National Assembly's decision to designate Hlophe as a member of the JSC was "unconstitutional and invalid". The organisation pointed to the JSC's crucial role in selecting judges for appointment. "…judges are responsible for upholding the Constitution and the rule of law. It would undermine public confidence in the JSC, the process of selecting judges, and indeed the credibility of the entire judiciary for an individual, who is subject to ongoing legal proceedings of this nature, and has made statements attacking the judiciary, to be involved in the judicial selection process," they explained. The EFF intends to appeal the firearms conviction and the hate speech ruling.

ANC says Oupa Mogotsi's ANC membership has expired, as Madlanga Commission hears disturbing testimony The African National Congress (ANC) on Friday moved to unequivocally distance itself from organised criminal activity, confirming that Oupa Brown Mogotsi, is no longer an ANC member. The party said it noted that certain individuals, including Mogotsi, had been alleged to be involved in serious organised criminal activity. This comes as testimony before the Madlanga Commission links Mogotsi to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, who have been implicated in corruption, political interference and malfeasance within the South African Police Service (Saps), which the country was originally alerted to when Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi went public with allegations. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said the allegations against Mogotsi were "deeply concerning". Bhengu noted that the party's membership records confirmed that his ANC membership had expired. She stated that crime and corruption were the enemies of development and democracy. "…they corrode the very values for which generations of South Africans [fought] in the struggle for freedom. The ANC will not allow its name to be associated with those who betray the principles of our movement for personal gain," she said. Bhengu promised that the ANC would act firmly and "without hesitation" against any of its members found to be involved in criminal activity. "Cases will be referred to the Integrity Commission and, where warranted, to the ANC's disciplinary structures in line with Rule 25. They will also be reported to law enforcement, because no one is above the law," she said. On Thursday, ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula said no ANC member implicated in corrupt activities, or appearing in court, would be supported by other party members. "The ANC's position is unmistakable. We will never defend corruption; we will expose it, confront it, and defeat it. Those who commit acts of corruption cannot hide behind the ANC, cannot drag our name into their crimes, and cannot claim legitimacy from the movement," he said. He said renewal meant drawing a line. "…those on the side of corruption place themselves outside the ANC," he added. Bhengu said any individual implicated in criminal activity applying for ANC membership, would be processed strictly in terms of the ANC constitution. ANC membership comes with "solemn duties", she said, noting that it required members to be disciplined and to "behave honestly". Meanwhile, the ANC welcomed the voluntary decision by National Executive Committee (NEC) member Thabang Makwetla, to step aside from his responsibilities following his appearance at the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crimes court. In a statement Bhengu said in line with the ANC constitution and the resolutions of the fifty-fifth ANC National Conference, Makwetla had acted with "exemplary discipline and political maturity" by stepping aside without being directed to do so. "…this includes relinquishing his roles as chairperson of the NEC Subcommittee on Peace and Stability as well as Convener of Deployees in the Limpopo province," she said. Makwetla was arrested by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption. He faces charges related to the contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act and fraud. The ANC reiterated that all comrades were presumed innocent until proven otherwise. Bhengu explained that the step-aside rule was not a declaration of guilt, but a measure to safeguard the ANC's standing. The organisation thanked Makwetla for his "leadership and discipline" in deciding to step aside. "…his decision strengthens the collective efforts of the ANC to restore public confidence, uphold accountability, and demonstrate that no individual is above the organisation," said Bhengu.

DA takes ward from ANC in Mpumalanga by-election, with electoral growth in Mamelodi The Democratic Alliance (DA) is celebrating its win of Ward 26 in the eMalahleni local municipality, which was previously held by the African National Congress (ANC), in Wednesday's hotly contested by-election, while support grew by 87.6% in the Mamelodi by-election. DA Mpumalanga provincial leader Jane Sithole said residents of Ward 26 had been "subjected to poor service delivery for far too long", pointing out that the previous ANC councillor was also implicated in an alleged rape scandal. "This historic victory in Mpumalanga signals continued voter confidence and great momentum as we make inroads in ANC strongholds, ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections," said Sithole. She highlighted that voters from diverse communities were endorsing the DA's "proven track record of good governance, rejecting corruption and failed policies" that she said had locked people out of opportunities. The DA's newly elected councillor for the ward is Sonja Liebenberg. "We express gratitude and thank each voter who turned out to vote DA. We also commend the DA campaign team, staff, activists and our public representatives who worked day and night during this by-election," Sithole said. Meanwhile, DA Gauteng North regional chairperson Crezane Bosch said the party's support continued to grow in the Tshwane by-elections and in ANC strongholds. "Our contestation in yesterday's Mamelodi by-election and the 87.6% growth from 2024 in our support signals the DA's commitment to Tshwane at large. In the very same ward, our support grew by 229% since 2021," she explained. Bosch said his party was "incredibly serious" about the City of Tshwane, and returning a DA-led government to the nation's capital.

Ramaphosa calls for immediate release of S Africans abducted from Sumud Flotilla President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the immediate release of South Africans abducted in international waters, and other nationals who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid. The Global Sumud Flotilla is delivering urgent humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and attempting to raise awareness of the need to stop the war. A UN Commission of Inquiry has concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, incited by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Activist and former President Nelson Mandela's grandson Mandla Mandela, was on board the flotilla. He is urging government to add pressure for his immediate release. In a pre-recorded video Mandela said he was kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla. "…if you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and I have been abducted by the apartheid State of Israel, I call on you to request our government to exact pressure for my immediate release," he said. The Global Sumud Flotilla emerged in July 2025 through the consolidation of multiple activist and humanitarian movements, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Global Movement to Gaza, the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, and Sumud Nusantara, into a coordinated maritime effort. The flotilla comprises over 40 vessels with 500 participants from more than 44 countries, making it the largest civilian-led convoy of its kind in history. South Africans who were on board the flotilla include Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner and Reaaz Moolla. Ramaphosa said confirmation is pending on the abduction of Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver. "My thoughts are with all the abductees and their families, and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East," he said. He pointed out that the interception in international waters off the coast of Gaza reinforces Israel's continued violation of international law and the infliction of suffering and starvation on Palestinians. "The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region," Ramaphosa said. He added that the interception of the flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of the nations whose flags were flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla. "This action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded," he said. Ramaphosa called on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, stressing that the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel. Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said South Africa supports the call by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible.