Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-05-30 i Pretoria News

Looking for an unforgettable adventure? Consider exploring the unique and breathtaking landscapes of Africa’s deserts. Desert tourism offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the continent’s diverse cultures, stunning natural phenomena, and thrilling adventures. It encompasses travel to arid and semi-arid regions, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and solitude of these unique environments. The allure lies not only in the striking landscapes but also in the cultural experiences that come with them. Travellers are drawn to deserts for a variety of reasons, including the chance to witness natural wonders, to engage with local communities, and to partake in adventurous activities. One of the main attractions of desert tourism is the opportunity to witness unique natural phenomena such as vast sand dunes, dramatic rock formations, and starry skies. Many…

May 29, 2025 marks exactly one year since South Africa’s landmark 2024 general elections — an electoral moment that shattered the African National Congress’s post-apartheid dominance and ushered in a new era of coalition politics. Though the Government of National Unity (GNU) was only formed weeks later, the anniversary of the vote stands as a powerful symbol of shifting political tides in the country and across the continent, analysts say. Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast, political analyst and academic, described the 2024 elections as “symbolic and deeply significant,” highlighting the end of one-party dominance. “For the first time, the ANC could not govern alone. That was unprecedented—and unless a major shakeup occurs, I don’t see the ANC recovering its former strength.” Breakfast links this shift to a broader generational and continental…

If the BS by Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi that his directive proposing the relaxation of the B-BBEE regime had nothing to do with Elon Musk and his Starlink business didn’t jeopardise the core of what South Africa is about I would have simply joined the many good, law-abiding citizens who simply laughed it off. But this is serious. Here we’re talking about our Constitution, our noble and well-intentioned laws, our national honour and sovereignty, our post-1994 dispensation’s foundation and so on. Malatsi’s timing has been described as “deeply unfortunate” by some, but I’d like to label it as very revealing about him and very cheap. Even primary school kids could see the minister’s slip showing very plainly as he ran around like a headless chicken, somersaulting backwards…

THE Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, has overturned the tender awarded by the Office of the Chief Justice regarding the procurement of the online CaseLines project, following the subcontract which was earlier awarded to three senior OCJ officials who had, meanwhile, resigned. The matter involved the award of a departmental tender to a company, Thomson Reuters (Professional) UK Ltd (TR), which had subcontracted to a local company whose shareholders were the three senior OCJ officials. The OCJ lodged the self-review application after it emerged that some OCJ officials who were involved in various stages of the procurement process that led to the appointment of TR as the preferred supplier of CaseLines, stood to benefit from the contract as subcontractors to TR. Meanwhile, the court this week declared the tender to be…

THE Democratic Alliance Federal Council has reaffirmed its firm rejection of expropriation without compensation, vowing to defend private property rights through both legal and legislative means. The Federal Council, the DA’s highest decision-making body between Federal Congresses, passed a motion that reinforced the party’s longstanding support for Section 25 of the Constitution. Central to this stance is the principle that compensation for expropriated property must be “just and equitable” – as determined by a court of law, rejecting the controversial concept of “nil compensation” introduced by the Expropriation Act of 2024. In a statement, the DA federal council chairperson, Helen Zille, said the motion wanted to secure private property rights, which, according to her, are the foundation of economic growth, job creation, and improving living standards. The motion further states…

The chief whip of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MKP) party, Mzwanele Manyi has been dismissed from his position in parliament. The announcement began circulating on MK Party WhatsApp groups but has now been confirmed to IOL by the MK Party’s Deputy Chief Whip, Muzi Ntshingila. The WhatsApp message reads: “Please be informed that Hon. Mzwanele Manyi has been relieved of his duties as Chief Whip with immediate effect. We thank him for his service and dedication to the MK Party and wish him the very best in his future endeavours. “We are pleased to announce that Hon. Colleen Makhubele has been appointed as the new Chief Whip of the MK Party. We are confident that she will lead with strength and vision as we continue to advance our collective mission.” Ntshingila…

South African Police Service (SAPS) National Crime Intelligence Unit has successfully arrested a suspect, and located and seized the Volkswagen Polo allegedly involved in the tragic murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale. Police are also searching for Fezile Ngubane and Philangenkosi Sibongokuhle Makhanya, who are believed to be linked to the murder. “The vehicle was discovered at a panel beater workshop in Phoenix, Durban, highlighting the tireless efforts of the SAPS anti-kidnapping task team,” said national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe. She said the investigation unfolded when SAPS intelligence initially traced the suspects to a lodge in Kew, Johannesburg. “Two men had booked a room there, prompting further inquiries by police. As the investigation progressed, authorities uncovered intelligence that directed them towards KwaMashu in Durban, identifying the home of one of…

The growing incidence of vandalism at City of Tshwane cemeteries has raised security concerns, prompting the Section 79 Environment and Agricultural Management Oversight Committee to urge the Metro to install surveillance camera systems to curb the trend. The committee has expressed worries about the insufficient number of security personnel deployed to cemeteries and the inadequacy of their resources, saying it hampers their ability to provide effective protection. The shortage of security, according to the committee, has left cemeteries vulnerable to unauthorised access, disrespectful behaviour and criminal elements. Committee chairperson Hluphi Gafane said the concerns were highlighted during a recent committee meeting, where members identified and tackled several pressing issues that require attention from the Department of Environment and Agricultural Management. She highlighted that the state of security at cemeteries under…

Mandla Ncikazi has devoted himself to being a servant of Orlando Pirates – hence, he’ll serve wherever he’s deployed by the management next season. Ncikazi served as the interim coach of Pirates in the last four matches, following the early departure of coach Jose Riveiro. He did fairly well in the capacity, guiding Pirates to 61 points – their best finish since the 2002/23 title-winning season after one win and three draws. As such, he has all but involuntarily thrown his name in the basket of coaches who may be considered to succeed Riveiro, having shown continuity. Ncikazi, despite serving as a co-coach and then assistant at Pirates, is no stranger to the head-coach role, having held the position at Golden Arrows prior to joining the Buccaneers. However, the 56-year-old…

With the World Test Championship (WTC) final fast approaching, Independent Media has engaged with many former Proteas players – and their message to the current South Africa Test team has been unanimous. From Fanie de Villiers and Alviro Petersen to Andrew Hudson, it has been made quite clear that facing Australia, especially in a final, is an unimaginably tough challenge – one that captain Temba Bavuma and his team will face next month at Lord’s. To gain even greater insight into what it’s like to take on the Australians, Independent Media spoke with former Proteas assistant coach Malibongwe Maketa, who worked alongside then-head coach Ottis Gibson during the infamous 2018 ‘Sandpaper Gate’ Test series. Maketa also served as interim head coach in 2022, the last time the Proteas played a…

What makes a city truly happy? Is it green spaces, strong governance, or access to quality healthcare? According to the 2025 Happy City Index, published by the Institute for the Quality of Life, happiness is the result of a well-balanced combination of these and other key factors. The comprehensive study analysed 82 indicators across six core categories used to evaluate how well cities are promoting the well-being of their residents. 1. Citizens 2. Governance 3. Environment 4. Economy 5. Health and Mobility While no single city was declared “the happiest”, a group of 31 were awarded “Gold City” status for excelling across the board. From that list, five cities stood out with the highest scores. Here’s what residents in those cities had to say about what makes their home towns…

Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has thrown his weight behind the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to investigate Starlink, a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, for allegedly operating in the country without authorisation. This development comes after the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) alleged that tech billionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink was offering its services in South Africa without a licence. ICASA confirmed that the organisation had launched an investigation into the alleged unlawful use and provision of Starlink services in South Africa. The regulator has also engaged SpaceX for further clarity and has deployed inspection teams on the ground to investigate the matter further. ICASA spokesperson Milly Matlou said: “ICASA has launched an investigation into the alleged unlawful use and provision of Starlink services in SA.…

Build One South Africa leader Mmusi Maimane wants National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza to instruct President Cyril Ramaphosa to submit a written reply to the question he passed about Starlink and relaxation of black economic empowerment in ICT sector codes. This comes after Ramaphosa skirted around Maimane’s question when he was responding during a question and answer session on Tuesday. Maimane asked whether the exemption or relaxation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment regulations, which would allow Starlink to operate in South Africa, would apply equally to South African-owned companies. When Maimane raised his concern that Ramaphosa did not answer the substance of his question, Deputy Speaker Annelie Lotriet stated that it was his prerogative to answer as he saw fit. “You can write to the president if you have further…

The City of Tshwane has many assets that must be cultivated to improve the lives of its residents and to create business opportunities, and with the Black Business Council in the Built Environment (BBCBE) as a partner, the city hopes to achieve this. Tshwane’s Executive Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, during a business breakfast hosted by the BBCBE on Tuesday, in partnership with the Tshwane Economic Development Agency (TEDA), showcased transformative development projects in the city, attracting investors and engaging built environment professionals. The event held in Centurion provided the business sector with an opportunity to engage the city on its plans to improve the economic environment in Tshwane and to work towards a people-centred urban transformation. Dr Moya stressed that the city is planning on upgrading and repurposing its assets…

The EFF has written to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, with an ultimatum, demanding the withdrawal of the proposed fuel levy increase, citing constitutional and legislative obligations or face more court action. The party argues that the increase, effective June 4, 2025, is a regressive tax that will disproportionately affect the working class and poor. Godongwana was given 48 hours to respond to the Red Berets' demands, or risk further escalation of the Budget crisis. Godongwana’s spokesperson, Mfuneko Toyana, declined to comment on the matter; however, confirmed that the department had received the letter. The Budget is, however, yet to be passed in the National Assembly. The EFF's letter comes amid the ongoing drama surrounding the 2025 Budget. The party, with the help of the Government of National Unity (GNU) aligned…

The struggle for racial justice in America remains as urgent as ever The dying gasp of George Floyd's "I can't breathe" on 25 May 2020 will forever reverberate across the world and haunt the carefully crafted image of the United States as the greatest democracy in the globe. In the nine minutes and twenty-nine seconds that it took Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin to snuff the life out of George Floyd, the brutality of state violence against African Americans was on full display. George Floyd had been arrested after he had allegedly used a counterfeit bill at a convenience store. But in truth, it may have been that his only crime was being black in the danger zone of the United States. Floyd's death was no lone moment of madness…

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially announced its admission process for the 2026 academic year, with reports that the process will run until 29 August Online applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 will open on July 24. On Thursday, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said while the focus of this year's admission process is on early primary education, he clarified that Grade R is not included at this stage. “We are not starting with Grade R for now because we have not really, fully implemented BELA (Basic Education Laws Amendment), and not all schools have Grade R classes. Some schools collaborate with nearby Early Childhood Development centres,” Chiloane explained. He said this decision underscores the department's commitment to ensuring that foundational education is available and universally accessible…

Hlompho Kekana says that Mamelodi Sundowns have what it takes to win the club’s second CAF Champions League title when they come up against Pyramids FC in the second leg of the final at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Sunday (7pm kick-off). The Brazilians will head to Egypt’s capital slightly on the back foot due to the away-goals rule, after playing out to a 1-1 draw in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld last Saturday. Sundowns clinched the tournament in 2016, and they are looking to be the first South African side to win the competition twice, after Orlando Pirates became the first club to emerge victorious in 1995. The Buccaneers were also tasked with the difficult situation of having to go to ASEC Mimosas, having played out…

Ninety minutes, perhaps more, stand between Mamelodi Sundowns and the chance to etch their name into African football history as they prepare to face Pyramids FC in the decisive second leg of the CAF Champions League final at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Sunday (7pm kick-off). Eight years have passed since their first moment of continental glory, and only now do the South African giants return to the grandest stage once again. In the first leg at Loftus Versfeld, Lucas Ribeiro Costa sent the crowd into a frenzy with a second-half opener, only for Walid El Karti to silence the celebrations with a cruel, last-gasp equaliser, leaving the tie balanced at 1-1 heading into a fierce Cairo night. The disappointment hung heavy – etched on the faces of…

While South Africa huddles in the grip of winter and short, grey days, Dubai promises something entirely different: sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable family fun. Just an overnight flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town, Dubai is a blend of glamour and cultural experience, offering families a warm escape during the South African winter. Whether you’re looking to relax on warm beaches, explore the magic of desert landscapes, or entertain the kids in world-class theme parks, Dubai ticks every box for an unforgettable winter getaway. Here are six compelling reasons to make Dubai your next family holiday destination: 1. Perfect winter weather Dubai’s winter weather is nothing short of glorious, with daytime temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. It’s the ideal time to explore the city without the intense summer heat – perfect…

Elon Musk and his satellite internet business Starlink are “getting more hype than they deserve”. This is what Paul Colmer, an executive committee member of the Wireless Access Providers Association (WAPA) said about the controversial Pretoria-born tech billionaire and his company in an interview on Monday about his association’s upcoming conference next month. As Colmer explains in a statement announcing the conference, this year’s gathering of the wireless, fibre and satellite connectivity ecosystem players of South Africa will not just be about wi-fi, but “WAPALOZA 2025 is about embracing everything from fibre and fixed wireless to satellite and private LTE/5G networks. The regulatory environment is evolving, Dynamic Spectrum Allocation is finally on the table, and we’re now seeing tangible opportunities to create smarter, more resilient networks across South Africa and…

ALLEGATIONS of possible interference by executives and staff in an investigation into a controversial R79 million lease deal led to the suspension of Road Accident Fund's chief executive officer Collins Letsoalo, says the fund. Letsoalo, whose term expires in August, will still receive his salary and other benefits. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is currently investigating the RAF for alleged corruption and maladministration. Letsoalo has been implicated in several allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption, primarily centered around a controversial R79 million lease deal for the RAF’s office in Johannesburg. The SIU preliminary report alleges that Letsoalo interfered with the procurement processes by overturning the bid committee’s decision to favour property management company Mowana Properties, which ultimately secured the contract. The allegations were extended beyond the lease to…

At an age when most teenagers are still navigating high school, Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli will be donning her graduation gown this autumn as one of the University of Pretoria’s (UP) youngest-ever graduates, obtaining a degree in Actuarial Science at the age of 17. Originally from Rosettenville, Johannesburg, Mongiwa’s academic journey is nothing short of remarkable. She began her university studies in 2022, having accelerated through primary and secondary school after her academic talents became clear at an early age. “When I was in Grade 3, I mistakenly wrote a Grade 4 mathematics paper and scored the highest of all the actual Grade 4 learners. My teacher identified this and allowed me to write more Grade 4 papers, and saw that I performed exceptionally well.” This led to an extraordinary academic…

Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke has found that the trend of poor audit outcomes continued in local government, with only 41 municipalities obtaining clean audits in the 2023/24 financial year. “While 59 municipalities have improved their audit outcomes since 2020/21 (the last year of the previous administration), 40 have regressed,” said Maluleke. Maluleke tabled the 2023/24 general report on the local government audit outcomes in Parliament on Wednesday. She said the most prevalent audit outcome in 2023/24 was an unqualified audit opinion with findings on performance information and/or compliance, received by 99 municipalities. “While the audit opinion on the financial statements of these municipalities may be unqualified (unmodified), meaning that their published financial statements are credible, the material findings on performance information mean that their performance reports are not credible, while the…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has established a commission of inquiry into the delay in the investigation and prosecution of the apartheid-era crimes but the nephew of anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Timol, believes this might not serve the purpose of bringing justice to the families of the victims. Imtiaz Cajee, whose uncle was murdered while in police detention in October 1971, said he has serious reservations about the commission, adding that it will only make recommendations that must be handed to another law enforcement agency. Cajee said he has always been of the view that instead of a commission of inquiry, the government should investigate the matter. He was responding to the Presidency announcement on Thursday that Ramaphosa had signed a proclamation for the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry to determine…

ON MAY 23, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, issued a policy directive proposal offering alternatives to broad-based black economic empowerment. This follows a policy directive to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) requiring it to investigate whether to open up applications for individual electronic communications network services (ECNS) licences. These announcements coincided with engagements between Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Donald Trump during a trip to the United States. A deal with Starlink was publicly advocated in a public session related to the meeting. Some critics believe that the directives have been introduced specifically to help Starlink enter the market in a way that isn’t completely straightforward. This concern is reasonable. During a meeting with the Portfolio Committee on 27 May, Minister Malatsi discussed the purpose…

SuperSport United endured a nerve-wracking 45 minutes to secure their place in the top-flight next season, playing to a 1-1 draw in the resumption of their Premiership fixture against Golden Arrows at Lucas Moripe Stadium yesterday afternoon. The draw came at a crucial time, allowing Matsatsantsa a Pitori on 27 points to leapfrog Cape Town City on the same amount of points into 14th position, pushing the Cape side down to 15th due to a better goal difference. City will now wait to learn the outcome of an investigation in the NFD Motsepe Foundation Championship regarding Durban City’s alleged use of an ineligible player to determine who they will face in the promotion play-offs. Abafana Bes’thende still had a mathematical chance of reaching the top eight, but it would have…

Playing Australia is the greatest test for any cricketer. This is according to former opening batter and national convenor of selectors Andrew Hudson as the Proteas prepare to face the defending champions in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s next month. Hudson fronted up to the Aussies in two series – both home and away – back in 1994, and believes it is not just an examination of a players’ technical ability, but more mental capacity to keep the “relentless” Baggy Greens at bay. “You knew you were in a fight, you just knew,” Hudson exclusively told Independent Media. “They don’t let go. They just keep coming. Even if you scored a hundred, if you’ve done well, they’re still there to get you and make sure you don’t score…

After the Sharks’ dour 12-3 defeat of the Scarlets a fortnight ago, there was a chance they might have had to call veteran Lionel Cronje out of semi-retirement for Saturday’s United Rugby Championship quarter-final against Munster – but the flyhalf injury crisis has lifted. Jordan Hendrikse has been running in the position at training this week, and while Siya Masuku is still struggling with the hamstring problem picked up against the Welsh team, one fit flyhalf is better than none. Unfortunately, it does not appear that Grant Williams will make the Munster party as he continues to nurse a neck injury. This is a pity, because he is the catalyst the Sharks have been missing to get their attack going. They need someone to push the detonator on the ample…