Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-11-16 i Sunday Tribune

Well known South African trail runner Stuart McConnachie broke down the growing business of endurance sport, in particular trail running, in an interview with Business Report. McConnachie said that research indicates that trail running has become a driver of local economic growth that comes as the Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) Ultra-trail Cape Town (RMB UTCT) is expected to take place next weekend. McConnachie has completed ultra-distance races such as the Comrades Marathon, the 2024 Two Oceans Marathon, and endurance races such as the Western States 100 and Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) and now serves as Race Director of RMB UTCT. McConnachie said that research published in the Journal of Sport & Tourism indicates that trail running in South Africa has become a potential driver of local economic growth, particularly in…

As a South African of Indian heritage, I often find myself standing at the crossroads of two magnificent worlds. Four generations later, my Indian roots remain as vibrant as ever, intertwined with the rhythm of South Africa: its warmth, resilience, and boundless creativity. In this convergence, I see not a clash but a celebration, a harmonious dance of cultures that together define who I am. As an artist and storyteller, I have always been fascinated by how culture travels, how it transcends geography, politics, and time. True culture knows no boundaries. It speaks through dance, cinema, design, music, storytelling, and shared traditions. It is the heartbeat of humanity, reminding us that the essence of who we are can be expressed, exchanged, and evolved. Today, as India and South Africa enter…

The group of 153 Palestinian refugees, who arrived in South Africa this week, had reportedly paid US$2 000 (approximately R34 100) each for the promise of safe transport and settlement in a host country, only to realise that their journey was fraught with uncertainty. The humanitarian crisis unfolded at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng this week, as the refugees, among them a pregnant woman and children who were stripped of their possessions in the devastating conflict in Gaza, landed in the country. Sarah Oosthuizen, a volunteer with humanitarian aid organisation Gift of the Givers said the group arrived with only their passports, some cash and phones. Oosthuizen said the refugees were unsure of where they were going until they received boarding passes in Nairobi via Global Airways Lift…

The DA in the eThekwini Municipality is concerned about the failed Go!Durban project and where the R303 million rollover in the Public Transport Network Grant will be channelled to. Thabani Mthethwa, DA eThekwini caucus leader, claimed that Mayor Cyril Xaba had made yet another empty promise to finally get the Integrated Transport Network Plan (Go!Durban) project off the ground. The C3 corridor runs between Pinetown and KwaMashu. The Go! Durban project has stalled due to a variety of issues. One of the main concerns has been the ownership of the buses that will operate on the route, as taxi operators want a controlling interest in the buses, while the city also seeks the same. At a council meeting on Thursday, the municipality welcomed the National Treasury’s decision, announced by Minister…

Can laughter be used to deflect pain? Can it be a shield we hold up when life comes swinging with grief, doubt or disappointment? For comedian Rory Petzer, award-winning radio producer, comedian, writer and all round story teller the answer is layered, much like the way he delivers a punchline. There’s humour, yes, but also truth, pain and an incredible sense of resilience. In our conversation, Rory opened up about how comedy became both a light and a lifeline during one of the most testing chapters of his life. He admits that it wasn’t about hiding from the pain, but rather finding a way to soften it and to be a light in darkness. Of course, humour doesn’t always behave. Rory shared the story of his worst experience “corpsing” on…

DURING the past week, remembrance services have been held in many countries around the world. Members of royal families, prime ministers and presidents have represented their nations to honour their war dead and to lament the horrific loss of life and destruction wrought by war. In Durban, a wreath-laying was held at the Cenotaph, organised by the SA Legion and on behalf of the city. There were no soldiers on parade nor were the reserve force army regiments represented by their commanding officers, a disturbing absence considering that most of the war dead served in their regiments. As one senior officer commented, the act of remembrance has faded in South Africa. Not so in the schools. In the Durban area, Glenwood High mounted a parade on their main sports field.…

A 49-year-old man who raped a minor child and attempted to open a case against the child’s mother has been sentenced to life imprisonment for rape by the Scottburgh Regional Court. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, the victim was eight years old when the man dragged her to the bushes in February 2023, raped her, and threatened her with a knife if she dared to say something. The victim, who was walking home from school on the fateful day, never said anything when she got home to her aunt and grandmother. About a week later, the victim went to a local tuckshop with her mother. “When the accused walked in, the victim became hysterical and asked her mother if they could leave immediately,” Ramkisson-Kara added.…

South Africa, like all developing countries, should use its membership of the G20 to untangle itself from the chains of imperialism so that it can enjoy economic emancipation, said the South African Communist Party (SACP). Through its national spokesperson, Mbulelo Mandlana, the SACP said South Africa’s participation in the G20 was a positive sign for the poorer nations. African countries are represented by the African Union in the G20, which has 19 countries that are independently represented. As the G20 president, President Cyril Ramaphosa has been seen as the representative of the Global South, which is made up of emerging nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Mandlana said South Africa’s participation was a positive reflection of its international relations policy. “From a country that used to be a pariah…

Ian Wyles Auctioneers is featuring four properties set to go under the hammer during their multi-property auction on November 19 at 11am at the Oyster Box Hotel, 2 Lighthouse Road, uMhlanga Rocks. The first is a double-volume home at 80 Botanic Avenue, Musgrave. This highly sought-after area offers a range of amenities and the beach is just a short drive away. The property comprises five bedrooms (one with a kitchenette), three bathrooms (one en-suite), two complete flatlets, each with a kitchenette and separate bedroom and bathroom, one office, a kitchen, a scullery, a lounge and dining room, as well as a sun room/passage. There is also one double lock-up garage, one secure double parking bay, an outside laundry, two outside toilets, along with double-volume basement workshops/storage rooms. The property also…

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) was launched on December 16, 2023. Named after the military wing of the ANC and the South African Communist Party, its founding message promised to advance the total liberation of the historically oppressed through electoral means. For many, this message spoke to a long-held yearning for transformation that had been repeatedly deferred. Many South Africans are experiencing extreme socio-economic strain. Nearly half of the population lives in conditions of chronic poverty, with unemployment levels among the highest in the world. Inequality remains structurally entrenched, and corruption scandals have eroded confidence in traditional political institutions. In this atmosphere of widespread disenchantment, the MKP presented itself as a vessel of hope. In the general election of May 2024, held five months after its formation, the party…

When Zohran Nkrumah Mamdani won the mayoralty of New York City at the age of 34, it was more than a political victory – it was the triumph of an idea. The son of Africa, born in Kampala, Uganda, to parents of Indian origin, Mamdani embodies the very fusion of histories that define our times: migration, resilience and plural identity. In him converge the moral inheritance of Africa, the intellectual heritage of South Asia, and the cosmopolitan energy of the world’s most diverse city. His ascent is therefore not only an American event. It is an African, Asian and global affirmation – a triumph of belonging over exclusion, courage over fear, and moral clarity over cynicism. Mamdani’s middle name, Nkrumah, is not incidental. It was bestowed by his father…

Hugo Broos is a tough taskmaster. On an afternoon when Bafana Bafana smashed Zambia 3-1 to leave the crowd excitedly celebrating and feeling the country’s senior national team is ready to shine at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), the Belgian coach was still not fully satisfied. Speaking post-match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, Broos was not as complimentary as one would have expected from the coach of a team that had won as consummately as Bafana did. “We didn’t play our game today,” the silver-haired former Afcon winner with the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon said. “There were good moments, moments when we did what we had to do – the forward passes that made us dangerous and that’s how we scored.” But the man who led…

George Ford inspired an England revival as they came from 12 points behind to beat New Zealand 33-19 at Twickenham yesterday for just their ninth win in 120 years of Tests against the All Blacks. New Zealand led early on through tries from Leicester Fainga'anuku and Codie Taylor but reached half-time just a point ahead at 12-11 after England centre Ollie Lawrence's try was followed by two drop-goals from recalled flyhalf Ford. Their comeback continued early in the second half as tries from Sam Underhill and Fraser Dingwall, both converted by Ford, propelled England into a 25-12 lead. The prolific Will Jordan's 44th try in 53 Tests brought New Zealand back into the game in the 66th minute. But Ford, in his 104th Test for England, put the result beyond…

As the festive season approaches, the anticipation of celebrations fills the air, and in South Africa, no festivity is complete without a feast. Renowned as a foodie’s paradise, the country boasts a diverse culinary landscape brimming with rich flavours waiting to be discovered. Mzansi, with its vibrant fusion of African, European, and Asian influences, places a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients that elevate every dish. From high-end restaurants helmed by internationally acclaimed chefs to traditional “braais” (barbecues) and beloved street foods like the Sowetan “kota” sandwich, South Africa offers a layered gastronomic experience steeped in its complex history. Whether it’s enjoying a plate of seven colours on a Sunday or gathering for a braai at sunset, food is an integral part of South African culture. If you’re seeking a…

When Thobile Skhosana founded Itoro Group, she set out to change how South Africa viewed safety. What began as a deeply personal mission to protect workers in high-risk industries grew into a powerful movement built on protection, productivity, and pride. “Itoro was born from lived experience,” Skhosana said. “Working at the mines, I saw how safety was often treated as a tick-box rather than a human need. I witnessed drivers, warehouse staff, engineers, and miners returning home injured or exhausted because their gear was not designed for them, especially women. I wanted to change that. Itoro became my way of saying protection is personal, and every worker deserves to feel safe, valued, and seen.” That vision has evolved into one of South Africa’s most promising safety-focused enterprises. Itoro Group, headquartered…

After being constantly nagged by a friend, who is a die-hard fan of Netflix’s The Diplomat and Keri Russell, of course, I decided to give it a watch. Now, I enjoy a good political/ espionage thriller. Homeland, House of Cards, The West Wing, The Night Agent and The Recruit have certainly heightened the appeal of the genre. Given the overwhelming amount of reality TV available on streaming platforms, the idea of immersing myself in something more thought-provoking was very appealing. I didn’t have the patience to start from season one and dived straight into the third instalment, which has been trending on the streaming platform. There were parts of the show I thoroughly enjoyed, and parts that frustrated me. Let’s get into it. At the heart of the story is…

The Big Mac Index suggests that the rand is about 52% undervalued. The measure of purchasing power highlights how inexpensive South African goods appear in dollar terms, but does this necessarily mean the currency is being deliberately weakened? That question lies at the heart of the rand manipulation case now before the Constitutional Court, where the Competition Commission has appealed a ruling that cleared 13 international banks of fixing the rand’s value. The apex court must now decide whether foreign financial institutions can be held accountable for conduct that allegedly distorted South Africa’s markets. A ruling in the Commission’s favour would mark a major victory for accountability and market integrity, reaffirming that no institution operates above the law. For most South Africans, justice in the markets matters as much…

I felt moved to respond, particularly in light of Gary Player’s remarks on his 90th birthday, which have understandably stirred deep controversy. The comments by this racist, one of the apartheid government’s ambassadors, must be treated with the contempt they deserve. His portrayal of South Africa as a land of squatter camps was not only bleak, it was deeply disappointing. Many South Africans, myself included, found his comments insensitive and out of touch with the realities and resilience of our people. Frankly, Mr Player, your words come far too late. To me, they ring hollow. They echo not the voice of a patriot, but that of someone who stood on the sidelines when it mattered most. During the Papwa Sewgolum era, racism in sport and society was both clearly visible…

The National Department of Transport has delayed the expanded implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act until July 2026. The decision, attributed to concerns regarding municipalities’ readiness and the potential implications for road safety, has ignited a fiery debate across the nation regarding the Act’s viability and necessity. The AARTO system, which threatens to revoke drivers’ licences for accumulated infringement points, was initially scheduled to be fully operational by December. However, Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, alongside Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, decided to defer the rollout amid increasing criticism. The Public Servants Association (PSA) welcomed the announcement, stating that it has consistently raised concerns about the practicality and fairness of the AARTO system. “The repeated delays since its inception underscore the PSA’s warnings that the system…

Three employees of the Tourism Department who complained against Director-General Victor Tharage have refused to cooperate with the investigation into his alleged misconduct. This was revealed by Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille when she was responding to written parliamentary questions from DA MP Haseena Ismail. Ismail wrote to De Lille asking whether she has initiated a full investigation against Tharage after President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated last December that, although he was the appointing authority of directors-general, a minister should probe misconduct and make recommendations to him. At the time, Ramaphosa confirmed that De Lille had reported the allegations and/or grievances of workplace bullying against women that were levelled against Tharage, to him with supporting documents. In her response, De Lille said: “I duly instructed the Office of the State Attorney…

MOVE over tinsel, Woolworths is giving festive flair a flavour upgrade with a quirky new line of food-inspired ceramic ornaments to add to your Christmas tree. Instead of the usual glittery baubles and tinsel that somehow ends up everywhere, the retailer has introduced an unorthodox holiday twist. For R99.99, you can deck your branches with miniature versions of some of your grocery-aisle favourites: a sunny side up fried egg, a carton of full-cream milk, a shiny Clemengold, sardines in tomato sauce, Chuckles for the sweet-toothed, strong coffee, Dairy Dream ice cream, tinned tomatoes, and even a perfectly ripe avocado. The mouth-watering idea comes courtesy of Izette Oelofse, Woolworths’ senior product developer. Inspired by global trends and the ongoing love affair between fashion and food, Oelofse set out to bring a…

Over the last two decades, we have entered a profoundly different period in global history, the era of a multipolar world. The emergence of the BRICS grouping, which represents around 40% of the world’s population and GDP, is significant because, for the first time, it offers people from the Global South a genuine opportunity to benefit from the growing wealth of the world. I have never seen BRICS as being opposed to the West. On the contrary, for many years, BRICS has supported globalisation. Remembering Thomas Friedman’s The World Is Flat, the sharing of information, resources, knowledge, and technology has the potential to create immense wealth for the entire world. This is the promise of BRICS and of a multipolar world. The BRICS Heads of State Summit One of the…

With 2025 winding down, Cannon’s Auctioneers are offering an online auction of sought-after antiques and collectibles. The auction is currently online and going live this coming Wednesday and Thursday from 8am daily. It includes over 100 lots of rare books. The furniture lots feature an imposing three-metre-high 19th Century French buffet, a pair of 19th Century Chinese doors with bronze studs, Victorian side cabinets, a Biedermeier secretaire desk and more. Also on offer are more that 100 Persian carpets and 200+ paintings from artists including John Koenakeefe Mohl, Durant Basi Sihlali, Marie Vermeulen-Breedt and more. Collectors of ceramics will be interested in the Spode “Italian” and “Chinese Rose” dinner services, as well as the Royal Albert tea sets and Doulton and Copenhagen figures. Toy collectors will be thrilled to find…

In May, President Cyril Ramaphosa invoked Section 84(f) of the Constitution of South Africa, which states that a sitting president is responsible for “appointing commissions of inquiry”. This is the section that empowered the president to sign a proclamation for the establishment of a commission of inquiry to determine whether any attempts were made to prevent the investigation and subsequent prosecution of apartheid-era crimes. Retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe was appointed to chair this commission. Her assistants were retired Northern Cape Judge President Frans Diale Kgomo and advocate Andrea Gabriel SC. All three individuals are grounded in law and thus do qualify to serve in this commission. But the question arises: Was the appointment of this commission justifiable? Were there no other mechanisms to establish the facts through normal…

Climate adaptation failure the next debt crisis for Global South As deadly storms ripped through the Caribbean, a new UN report delivered a sobering warning: the world is failing to prepare for the climate it has already created. The UN Environment Programme’s Adaptation Gap Report 2025, aptly titled Running on Empty, finds that developing nations will need between $310 billion (R5.2trillion) and $365bn annually by 2035 to cope with intensifying climate impacts. Yet, international public finance for adaptation fell to just $26bn in 2023, down from $28bn the previous year. The result: only one-twelfth of what’s needed is being delivered. This gap is not an abstract number. It’s visible in the wreckage of homes, farms and economies across our region. Last month, Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm to hit Jamaica,…

Bafana Bafana set the tone for their upcoming African Cup of Nations (Afcon campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Zambia in an international friendly held at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha yesterday. The game not only showcased South Africa's potential but also highlighted their resounding display of skill and determination. It also served as a crucial warm-up for both teams ahead of their participation in the tournament set to kick off next month in Morocco. Bafana Bafana, currently ranked 87th globally, asserted themselves from the very first whistle against 59th-ranked Zambia, who are the 2012 African champions. With a notable possession advantage (67%) in the opening 30 minutes, Bafana Bafana left an early impression that they were prepared to dominate the encounter with attacking play. During this…

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus chose his words carefully after his gutsy team had overcome major obstacles to beat Italy 32-14 yesterday, but he nevertheless made it clear that refereeing decisions have blighted his team’s last fortnight of matches. Last week against France, Lood de Jager was dubiously red-carded, and then history repeated itself in Turin when fellow lock Franco Mostert was outrageously red-carded in the 11th minute. “How can you coach a 2.6m guy to go lower than he does?” Erasmus asked. Erasmus added: “We thought that the process was a 20-minute red card, and it is not my place to say it, but for a second week in a row, our captain (Siya Kolisi) had to suffer (by being sacrificed to the bench). Because of a yellow card that…

Australia was dealt a huge blow yesterday with Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the first Ashes Test against England, leaving their pace stocks precariously thin with Pat Cummins and Sean Abbott also sidelined. The 34-year-old tweaked his hamstring during New South Wales's Sheffield Shield clash with Victoria during the week. He was initially given the all-clear after a scan, but repeat imaging confirmed the strain. “Initial scans Wednesday were clear of muscle strain, however follow-up imaging today has confirmed the injury,” Cricket Australia said. "Early imaging can occasionally underestimate low-grade muscle injuries. "As a result, Hazlewood will not travel to Perth and has been ruled out of the first Ashes Test match.” It is a massive setback for the hosts just days out from the opening Test in Perth on…

SOUTH AFRICAN religious organisations have condemned the deadly terrorist attack in India’s capital city. The incident occurred on Monday evening when a Haryana-registered car parked near Gate No.1 of the Red Fort Metro Station in Delhi exploded, killing several people and injuring more than 20. The Indian Union Cabinet declared it a terrorist attack, saying in a resolution: “The country has witnessed a heinous terror incident, perpetrated by anti-national forces, through a car explosion”. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of South Africa condemned the bomb blast and urged the international community to speak out against such heinous acts of terror. “We call upon peace-loving citizens to stand together in solidarity to light a lamp daily at 6pm to honour the innocent lives that were destroyed,” said the Vishwa Hindu Parishad SA.…

As global travel trends evolve, a compelling shift is taking place in how people approach their journeys. The focus is no longer merely on destinations but on the underlying reasons that inspire them to travel. According to Hilton’s newly released 2026 Trends Report, “whycations” are on the rise – a concept emphasising travel shaped by emotional motivations like the yearning to reconnect, rest and engage in meaningful experiences. This change marks a transition from the previous “more is more” mentality to a more intentional travel experience. Within the SA context, this trend resonates profoundly as many locals embark on trips for deeper motivations rather than ticking off bucket-list items. “Travel has always meant a bit more than ticking off bucket-list destinations for South Africans,” highlights Antoinette Turner, general manager of…

In the world of short-term holiday rentals, simply having a sea view or mountain backdrop isn’t enough anymore. Today’s travellers are looking for something more – not just a place to sleep, but an experience to remember. Whether you’re renting out a stylish city bachelor apartment or a beachside escape, the secret to standing out and being able to charge more lies in your home’s design, personality, and attention to detail. Interior designer Vanessa Marshall shares advice on how to transform your property from “just another listing” into a premium destination that guests are happy to pay extra for. Use design as your competitive advantage South African holidaymakers are discerning – many have travelled widely and know good design when they see it. According to Marshall, guests respond best…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) delivered on Wednesday outlined government’s plans to drive growth, stabilise debt and strengthen service delivery. Yet for millions of South Africans struggling to make ends meet, the message was clear: relief is not coming any time soon. The Minister said that South Africa’s main budget primary balance for 2025/26 was expected to outperform previous estimates, with revenues R19.3 billion higher than projected earlier in the year. “There are clear signs that consistent fiscal discipline is paying off in improved investor confidence. This has been aided by sound monetary policy, which has reduced inflation and inflation expectations, enabling lower interest rates,” Godongwana said. A key announcement was the formal adoption of a 3% inflation target, replacing the previous 3–6% range. Godongwana said…

Like every other NCIS fan, I was eagerly waiting for the Tony & Ziva spinoff to drop. This isn’t a review per se, but more of a public announcement, if you didn’t know. Anthony “Tony” DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly), a former NCIS special agent, now heads a leading cybersecurity company. His former partner, Ziva David (Cote de Pablo), who was once thought to be dead in the series but was deep undercover, currently works for a non-profit organisation. Their professional relationship evolved while originally working together, which led to Ziva giving birth to their daughter, Tali (Isla Gie). Given the precarious nature of their jobs, the safety of their daughter has always been their top priority. The series recently dropped on M-Net (DStv channel 101). Unfortunately, it’s going to be a…

Every year on November 14, the world observes World Diabetes Day, a global health campaign dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most pressing chronic conditions of our time. Established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation in partnership with the World Health Organisation, the day was later recognised by the UN in 2006. The goal of World Diabetes Day is to encourage prevention, improve access to care and foster education about diabetes. The focus also includes promoting early diagnosis and healthy living to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, blindness and nerve damage. The campaign also offers a platform to talk about access to care, affordability of medication and lifestyle education – issues that continue to challenge communities across the country. While medical research, awareness campaigns…

It is a matter of regret that Professor Pholoho Morojele elected to publish his letter in the Sunday Tribune without first concluding formal engagement with the university or the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA). It is evident that he feels aggrieved, and while the matter remains before the CCMA, it would be inappropriate for the university to comment on the specific disciplinary issues or the factual basis of his dismissal. However, the broad and sweeping nature of the article demands a response – not to litigate the matter in public, but to clarify the institutional context and reaffirm the university’s commitment to lawful governance. Professor Morojele’s letter frames his dismissal as a principled stand against governance breaches. That is his prerogative. Yet factually incorrect! Tellingly he provides no…

The parliamentary inquiry probing damning allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is set to resume next week, with a line-up of significant witnesses taking the stand, including University of KwaZulu-Natal Professor Mary de Haas and four senior police officials. The inquiry halted its proceedings on Thursday after Cedrick Nkabinde, who is the chief of staff of suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, gave conflicting evidence during his testimony. The ad hoc committee announced that De Haas would kick off the testimonies on Tuesday. This will be followed by Deputy National Commissioner Tebello Mosikili on Wednesday, head of procurement General Molefe Fani on Thursday, and CFO Puleng Dimpane on Friday. Lieutenant-General Khosi Senthumule will provide his testimony on November 25, while Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who stands accused of attempted murder,…

The Western Cape is grappling with a mounting crime crisis, with nearly 30 murders recorded in Cape Town alone over just 72 hours, according to South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO). The organisation says the figures reveal a province where fear has become a permanent reality. “The Western Cape is not merely experiencing high crime. It is living through a human catastrophe,” SANCO said. “Children grow up recognising the sound of gunfire more than they recognise hope, while women are hunted by predators as the system meant to protect them continues to fail.” SANCO highlighted the alarming levels of gender-based violence in the province. “Women are murdered inside taxis, assaulted in homes, raped on their way to work, and terrorised in areas where policing is thin and help arrives too…

Former president Jacob Zuma has appointed Des van Rooyen as uMkhonto weSizwe Party’s (MKP) acting parliamentary leader, the post held by suspended party deputy president, Dr John Hlophe. The MKP announced on November 5 that Hlophe had been suspended from party activities pending a full investigation into his conduct. It accused Hlophe of replacing Colleen Makhubele with Van Rooyen as the parliamentary chief whip without consulting members of the party’s National High Command, of which he is a member. He allegedly took this decision while Zuma was out of the country, visiting the President of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traoré. Upon his return and being briefed about the new development in the MKP’s parliamentary caucus, Zuma suspended Hlophe and reinstated Makhubele. However, in the latest developments, MKP’s national spokesperson Sipho Tyira…

KwaZulu-Natal’s education system has been shaken by a new parliamentary report revealing a disturbing rise in serious misconduct cases involving teachers. This incude 30 allegations of statutory rape and several cases involving the sexual assault of young learners. The findings were presented to the parliamentary portfolio committee on basic education this week by the KZN Department of Education’s Deputy Director for Corporate Affairs, Advocate Bheki Masuku, who painted a troubling picture of learners being violated by those entrusted with their safety and care. Masuku said the department had recorded 71 misconduct cases against teachers this year. Some of the most serious involve allegations of rape, including instances said to have occurred within school premises. One case cited in the report involves an 11-year-old Grade 5 learner who was allegedly assaulted…

If you have been scrolling through social media lately, you have probably seen influencers and pop-up ads punting GLP-1 drops or solutions that promise quick and effortless weight loss. The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) is urging the public to steer clear of these products, many of which are being marketed with false claims and no regulatory approval. SAHPRA says it has identified companies and individuals selling GLP-1 products online while pretending to be linked to major retail pharmacies or even the regulator itself. These claims are completely false. According to the Authority, the sellers are not based in South Africa, despite advertising that the items ship from Johannesburg or Cape Town. Instead, the products are being posted from China, and the items that arrive are not the…

China this week expressed its support for South Africa’s G20 presidency ahead of the global G20 Summit of the bloc. At the two-day Global South Media and Think Tank Forum in Johannesburg, Independent Media executive chairman, Dr Iqbal Survé, asked for a more inclusive world order and a strengthening of the partnership between Africa and China. Survé described the partnership between Africa and China as a beacon of what genuine cooperation can achieve. He stated that the partnership is grounded in mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to building a fairer, more inclusive world order. “It is this spirit of partnership that must guide our collective efforts in reforming global governance to reflect a more equitable and representative system,” Survé stated. According to one of South Africa’s leading businessmen,…

Would you choose to have a part of your body live on after you died? How might your choice affect your relatives – or even your entire community? The first is a question people face when they donate organs. The second comes up when they participate in genetic research. This is because DNA from even a single individual can reveal a web of relationships, even helping law enforcement to solve crimes committed by distant relatives they have never met. And as you continue to go back in time, the web becomes ever more tangled. DNA is the unique genetic material of every living being on the planet. It can be “immortalised” for an unforeseeably long time in digital genetic libraries which contain the genomic information not only of that person,…

For several reasons, the Springboks’ 32-14 defeat of Italy in Turin must rank among Rassie Erasmus’ top 10 most gratifying wins, given this was a performance of the highest standards in the face of rank adversity. I can picture Erasmus in the Bok change room saying, “The officials can throw whatever they want at us, but we will suck it up and show them the middle finger.” This unbelievably dramatic game will sadly be recalled for the ridiculous red card given to Franco Mostert, but it should equally be revered as a match where the Springboks confirmed they are one of the greatest teams to grace the game, as they once more found a way to win against the odds. The wonderful Schalk Burger in the SuperSport studio best summed…

It’s been nine seasons - and counting - since the PSL last enjoyed continental success in inter-club football. Mamelodi Sundowns were responsible for that previous success. The Brazilians ascended to the throne of African football when they were crowned kings of the continent for the first time in their history. They became only the second South African team to achieve that milestone, with Orlando Pirates having been crowned African champions in 1995. That’s why the Sea Robbers would have celebrated their 30-year anniversary in style had they gone all the way last season instead of falling short at the second-last hurdle. But a new season has arrived with yet another chance of redemption for South Africa through Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs, and Stellenbosch. All three have reached the group stages of…

Former world heavyweight champion Joseph Parker yesterday denied taking a prohibited substance after learning he had failed a drug test on the day of his shock loss to Fabio Wardley. The 33-year-old New Zealander said on social media it was a “real surprise” to learn of an adverse finding from an anti-doping test taken on 25 October. Parker suffered an 11th-round stoppage defeat by British boxer Wardley and lost his status as WBO mandatory challenger for undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. “The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) last night informed all required parties that Joseph Parker returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted on October 25 in relation to his bout with Fabio Wardley,” promoters Queensberry said in a statement. “While the matter is investigated further, no additional comment…

Singer Armaan Malik has released his latest track, Aakhri Salaam, from the upcoming film De De Pyaar 2. He described it as a song that focuses more on reflection than pain. Speaking about the track, Malik shared: “Aakhri Salaam has a very different emotional core. It isn’t just about love; it’s about closure, acceptance, and the quiet dignity of letting go.” “The song feels like a conversation with oneself, where the heart finally learns to make peace with what it has lost. When I sang Chale Aana in the first De De Pyaar De, it was about longing and the ache of separation. Aakhri Salaam carries that same vulnerability but with a deeper sense of maturity. It’s less about pain and more about reflection. I think that’s what makes it…

As the year concludes, many of us are battling end-of-year fatigue. With only a few weekends left before the festive season, it can be challenging to muster the energy to maintain our routines. However, one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate your spirit is through spontaneous travel. Embracing the unexpected can not only refresh your mind but also enhance your overall well-being. The thrill of last-minute getaways According to Samantha Pillay, director at ekko, there’s something undeniably exhilarating about booking a last-minute trip. The rush of excitement, the break from routine, and the sense of freedom can be incredibly liberating. Pillay notes, “We’ve become so good at planning every minute of our lives that we forget how good it feels to just... go.” The best trips aren’t always the…