Polity Audio Articles

DA welcomes former FF+ caucus leader to its ranks The DA on Tuesday welcomed to its ranks former Freedom Front Plus (FF+) Tshwane Caucus Leader Grandi Theunissen, a move that DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink said bodes well for the blue party. Theunissen, a former FF+ regional chairperson for Tshwane, said he hopes to make a positive contribution to the DA and to the metro. "As I said, leaving a party of which I have been a member since 1994 is a difficult decision. As chairperson of the FF+'s largest region, I worked hard to grow the party. I also held a highly winnable position on the Tshwane candidate list. However, between 2023 and 2024, the FF+ voted to topple several DA mayors in the Western Cape. Cilliers Brink and I promised each other that we would not allow this kind of politicking to jeopardise our own coalition here in the Tshwane metro," he said. He pointed to shared values and interests between himself and Brink, also noting strong bonds of friendship. Brink said Theunissen's move to the DA was significant for Tshwane residents. "Our opponents in this election are those that break down institutions, deploy cadres, and attack the bedrock of good governance in our City. When we governed together in Tshwane, Grandi served as a Mayoral Committee Member and he proved himself to be entirely aligned, working against forces of corruption and capture," he stated. Brink pointed to Theunissen's experience in the FF+, stressing that he did not leave his former party as a disgruntled member. Brink noted the upcoming local government election, and expressed readiness for the DA's ability to govern the metro, again. "My focus is now on the future. We must stand together to win," Theunissen said.

Parly flags R300m shortfall at Home Affairs following spike in deportations The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs has raised serious concerns over a R341-million financial shortfall facing the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), following intense anti-illegal-immigration protests on June 30 and a subsequent surge in immigration enforcement, deportations and repatriations. With its yearly deportation budget already fully depleted, the department faces severe operational risks if fiscal interventions are not approved, the committee warned. The DHA has officially requested R292-million in "unforeseen and unavoidable expenditure" from the National Treasury to help cover the sudden enforcement. However, a major concern is the lack of an explicit guarantee that the funds will be reimbursed. Committee chairperson Mosa Chabane warned that the situation is untenable. If the Treasury rejects the request, the DHA will be forced to absorb the costs from its existing baseline budget. This will compel the department to reprioritise funds away from its structured annual plans. Ultimately, such budget shifts threaten to delay key operational milestones and directly degrade the quality of public services provided to citizens, Chabane said. In response to the crisis, the DHA has initiated diplomatic engagements with the governments of countries whose nationals were deported, aiming to secure financial reimbursement. While the committee welcomed these discussions, it cautioned that international diplomacy is a lengthy process that cannot replace sustainable, long-term budgeting. The committee highlighted that the situation underscores an urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to secure South Africa's porous borders. Consequently, Parliament has called on the DHA and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to intensify joint engagements with foreign nations. The goal is to establish structured mechanisms where foreign governments contribute directly to the deportation and repatriation costs of their respective citizens. To ensure financial compliance, the committee has directed the DHA's internal audit component to expedite its scrutiny of all procurement and expenditure linked to the recent enforcement operations. This proactive review aims to ensure strict legislative compliance and resolve potential irregularities before the Auditor-General's mandatory audit. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the Standing Committee for Refugee Affairs and the Refugee Appeals Authority of South Africa. Both entities failed to provide timely, complete information regarding their migration management challenges, which hindered Parliament's oversight process. The committee confirmed it will delay its interrogation of these specific migration-related matters until all outstanding data is received, reiterating that effective migration management demands total transparency from all State institutions.

CDE report says Joburg budget is 'disconnected from reality', with water failures biggest risk With unpaid bills owed to the City of Johannesburg rising from about R15-billion in 2014/15 to nearly R72-billion in 2024/25, the Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) cautions that the City's budget is "increasingly disconnected from reality". In the second issue of the independent think tank's new report series, 'Johannesburg Matters: Fixing South Africa's growth engine', which highlights the multiple crises confronting the City of Johannesburg and presents recommendations, the CDE warns that the City is falling into a dangerous financial spiral. It noted the non-payment of rates and utility bills by residents, amid the City's lack of service delivery and failing infrastructure, and stressed that the municipality's financial situation was more serious than just a budget deficit. "Johannesburg's budget is increasingly disconnected from reality. The City spends money it does not collect, imposing ever-higher costs on a shrinking rates base and stagnant economy, while squeezing infrastructure investment and turning its suppliers into de facto lenders," the report found. CDE executive director Ann Bernstein explained that the City registers its bills to residents and businesses as revenue, assuming that it can catch up. She noted that over the last decade, unpaid bills to the City have increased to almost 17% a year. Added to that, infrastructure investment has fallen by about 50% since 2014/15 and by almost 70% per resident. The City's spending, the CDE said, has increased much faster than its stagnant economy can support, noting significant issues in water and electricity. The CDE report says water poses the greatest danger for the City, with unpaid water bills over the last decade growing by 20% a year. "The City needs revenue to maintain and upgrade water infrastructure. But the more unreliable the infrastructure becomes, the harder it is to bill accurately, collect consistently and persuade residents that payment is justified by the quality of the service they receive. Johannesburg can survive potholes and poor refuse collection for a while. It cannot survive without reliable water. Households need water, firms need reliable supplies of water. The deterioration of the water system is an existential threat to the city," stressed Bernstein. While electricity previously provided the bulk of the City's revenue, that has now fallen from 34% to 28% in ten years, leaving poorer households to foot the bill to maintain the electricity network as wealthier customers adopt electricity alternatives to reduce their dependency on the municipality. SUPPLIERS FINANCE CITY'S OPERATIONS The CDE report further noted that in the wake of collapsed infrastructure investment, employee and contractor costs have risen significantly. Employee-related costs rose by 9% a year over the last decade, from R8.6-billion to R20.7-billion, and now absorb about 40% of the revenue collected from customers. This as suppliers debt rose from R12-billion a decade ago to over R28-billion, today, resulting in the City delaying payments to deal with its revenue deficit. "This means Johannesburg is forcing its suppliers to finance its operations. That is not a sustainable financing model. It also shifts the costs of Johannesburg's failure onto institutions that are themselves important to the national economy," Bernstein stated. She further warned that lenders are increasingly more apprehensive about financing the city, noting the recent decision by the French development finance agency AFD to not extend its R2.5-billion loan, pointing to concerns over governance. The CDE warned against an unconditional bailout for the City. "Johannesburg is too important to the country to be allowed to collapse. But national government must not write a cheque that allows the same political and financial practices to continue. Any assistance must form part of a fundamental restructu...

Oversight tightens as McKenzie faces Parly committee grilling Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie will face an intense parliamentary committee on Tuesday as opposition parties gear up to demand accountability over a multimillion-rand overseas trip and allegations of political patronage in board appointments. McKenzie is scheduled to appear before the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture for a second time to account for a controversial R30.9-million taxpayer expenditure incurred by his department for a 151-member delegation to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The DA has vowed to challenge McKenzie on Tuesday for a detailed, itemised breakdown of the spending, while the MKP is demanding transparency over the alleged appointment of 19 individuals linked to his party, the PA, to public boards. The DA is spearheading the push for financial transparency regarding the delegation sent to the global soccer showpiece. According to DA spokesperson on Sport, Arts and Culture Leah Potgieter, the minister and his department have "run out of excuses". "This time there can be no excuse. The Minister and the department have been given ample time to provide the promised World Cup receipts," Potgieter stated. During a committee meeting earlier this month, members rejected a "lacklustre" presentation by the department. Tensions escalated when McKenzie left the meeting just as the probe into the World Cup spending began, leaving MPs unable to question him directly. On Tuesday, the DA will demand a comprehensive report covering the exact expenditure attributable to each of the 151 delegation members and the full names, professional credentials, and specific responsibilities of each attendee that justified their inclusion. The party also wants a clear account of what each member did and a detailed log of all official meetings and engagements held by the Minister and a breakdown of all sponsorships received alongside measurable proof of the return on investment secured for South African sports, arts, culture and tourism. Meanwhile, the MKP has raised formal governance concerns regarding public entity boards within McKenzie's portfolio. Reports allege that 19 individuals with ties to the PA have been appointed to these structures. MKP national spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu clarified that while political affiliation does not automatically disqualify a candidate, merit must always come first. "We are demanding that political proximity must never substitute for competence, experience, integrity and suitability," Mahlangu said. "These entities manage public resources and have a direct impact on the livelihoods of artists, cultural practitioners, filmmakers, athletes and young people. They cannot be treated as political rewards or extensions of party structures." The MKP is calling on the portfolio committee to subject these appointments to rigorous parliamentary scrutiny. It wants the release of appointment criteria, candidate shortlists, interview processes, competency assessments, final recommendations, qualifications and official declarations of interest. Mahlangu added that if McKenzie is confident that due process was followed, he should welcome the opportunity to lay the evidence before Parliament.

Business, govt unanimous on economic growth plan, jobs target The Presidency and business organisation Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) have united behind the plan, announced last week, to lift economic growth above 3% a year and contribute towards the creation of one-million new jobs by 2030, with both social partners agreeing that the focus must now shift from fixing the economy's structural weaknesses to unlocking its growth potential. The agreement forms the basis of Phase 3 of the Government-Business Partnership, launched at Summer Place, in Johannesburg, on August 20, with more than 30 CEOs committing private-sector expertise, resources and capacity to work alongside government on this growth agenda. In his latest weekly newsletter, President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted that the first two phases of the partnership were focused primarily on stabilising the economy and addressing binding constraints, particularly in electricity, freight logistics and the criminal justice system. "When we started, our immediate objective was to respond to the crises in electricity and logistics. We brought on board private sector capabilities through the National Energy Crisis Committee and undertook joint efforts in freight transport to halt the decline in these critical network industries. "We mobilised support from business for the structural reforms that government had embarked on and drew on its resources to build institutional capacity in the State," Ramaphosa says. The partnership was established in 2023 when South Africa was facing severe loadshedding, deteriorating logistics performance and persistent security challenges. Since then, government and business have worked together on reforms and operational improvements, contributing to more than 400 days without loadshedding, improved port performance and the opening of freight rail corridors to private operators. Other notable improvements include South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, while ongoing work in public finances and economic reforms have contributed to more positive credit-rating assessments. Echoing the President's sentiments on government-business collaboration, reform improvements and economic growth in her weekly newsletter, BLSA CEO Busi Mavuso says the current progress made in this regard demonstrates that this partnership has moved beyond discussion and produced some tangible outcomes. "The partnership's renewal marks an important change in emphasis. We have been focused on fixing what's broken. That has involved major reform and operational turnarounds in our critical network infrastructure. "Government has also been highly effective in turning around the dire state of public finances to the point where we have received upgrades to our national credit rating," she highlights. Moreover, Mavuso notes that the private sector has already invested more than R360-billion in new energy generation capacity, while more than R20-billion had been committed to port and rail infrastructure. However, she says these reforms should be viewed ultimately as growth enablers rather than an end in themselves. "The hard work starts now. Growth of more than 3% is the target we must all be held to. The jobs South Africa needs depend on us hitting it," Mavuso stresses. Phase 3 of the Government-Business Partnership is built around three areas of intervention, with government and business aligned on the need to consolidate reforms while targeting sectors capable of generating significant economic activity and employment. The first pillar focuses on completing reforms in the core economic enablers of energy and transport. This includes the unbundling of State-owned power utility Eskom, the expansion of electricity transmission infrastructure, the operationalisation of the South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM) and greater private-sector participation in freight rail. The second pillar targets sectors where South Africa has sig...

ANC says it has learnt from past mistakes as it vows 'capable' municipal leadership ahead of elections The ANC has the capacity to lead municipalities effectively following a rigorous selection process for its local government election candidates, the party has promised. Speaking on Monday, a day after the launch of its election manifesto, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula emphasised that party did not choose just anyone to fill the mayoral seats. Instead, he said the ANC leadership invested time into analysing every prospective candidate to ensure they possessed the right qualifications, leadership experience, and capabilities. "The party has upped its ante based on the experience in the past," Mbalula noted, acknowledging that previous governance challenges have forced a shift toward stricter vetting. The internal selection process reached a critical milestone over the weekend when the ANC decided to postpone its final mayoral candidate announcement until September. The party shortlisted 42 nominees across eight key municipalities. Mbalula admitted that the party made "costly and dire" mistakes in the past, but insisted that the party is actively fixing them. "Some of those mistakes and weaknesses have been corrected; we have a plan that is not based on fiction but on reality," he explained. "We talk about water, electricity, fixing potholes, budgets, building more houses for our people, creating good infrastructure for shelter, and at the same time dealing with the question of a new urban settlement and upgrading informal settlements." He further asserted that these plans are already being implemented, even with what he described as complex and restrictive environments of coalition governments. According to Mbalula, where the ANC holds an outright majority, it has historically "done wonders". He pointed to the City of Johannesburg before the advent of coalition politics as an example. "The ANC was doing good; we fixed potholes, we did all of these things where we governed on our own, and we were able to do things differently on our own consistently," Mbalula argued. He attributed modern municipal instability to the unpredictable nature of coalition partners. "The municipality fell into the hands of the coalition... We have people who we have got no control over, so that on its own does not account to be a weakness, but does not give us total power to totally govern," he stated. Mbalula singled out the Emfuleni municipality as a major disappointment for the ANC. While maintaining that the party "did its best" as the majority party, he stated that "once it fell into the hands of the coalition government, it became worse". He said that the ANC is doing all it can within the context of coalitions but ultimately aims to regain a total majority to decisively fix these deep-seated issues.

Border security top of SA-Zim BNC agenda as Ramaphosa hosts Mnangagwa President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for deeper bilateral cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe, urging both nations to modernise respective border systems, tackle trans-border crime, and correct a "massive" trade imbalance. Speaking at the fourth session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) at the OR Tambo Building in Pretoria, Ramaphosa emphasised regional prosperity for neighbours with "vast shared potential, seamless migration and robust economic collaboration". Ramaphosa hosted Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday, when he stated that to facilitate the smooth movement of citizens and commercial goods, both nations must modernise their infrastructure and border management systems. He stressed that infrastructure upgrades must be paired with stricter security enforcement. "We must strengthen our combined efforts to counter trans-border crime," Ramaphosa said, noting that secure and efficient borders are foundational to regional stability. Zimbabwe remains one of South Africa's largest trading partners, with the value of bilateral trade nearly doubling over the last four years. Despite this rapid growth, Ramaphosa highlighted economic disparity, noting that South Africa exports significantly more to Zimbabwe than it imports. Ramaphosa urged the usage of the Memorandum of Understanding on Economic Cooperation to narrow the gap. He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area as a "vital mechanism" to increase trade volumes and balance trade composition. "We must enable both Zimbabwe and South Africa to expand the production and export of goods that we manufacture from our abundant natural resources," he added. He asserted that economic growth relies heavily on aggressive infrastructure expansion, assuring that South African financial institutions, such as the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the Industrial Development Corporation, are ready to fund high-impact projects in Zimbabwe. Targeted cross-border infrastructure initiatives include building bridges, roads, airports, and connecting farms and factories to markets, constructing dams and water pipelines, connecting power stations to businesses and homes and developing health facilities and schools. Ramaphosa also praised the Southern African Power Pool and urged both countries to leverage its potential to establish Southern Africa as a leader in clean, affordable, and reliable energy. With Zimbabwe experiencing rising mining revenues driven by gold, platinum, and critical transition minerals like lithium, Ramaphosa called for a shift away from exporting raw materials. He noted that South Africa is increasing its own investment in exploration and beneficiation, stating, "We have said for many years that our minerals should be processed at home, that we should export finished products. Together, we need to put that aspiration into practice." Ramaphosa also highlighted the agreement to supply water from Zimbabwe's Beitbridge Water Works to the South African border town of Musina as a prime example of successful cross-border resource sharing. "This is one example of how we can work together to meet our people's basic needs and make our countries more resilient in the face of climate change," Ramaphosa said, reaffirming that joint efforts are the only way to convert regional resources into local jobs and long-term prosperity.

NPA drops corruption charges against top crime intelligence bosses amid Madlanga Commission revelations The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has formally withdrawn all corruption charges against the Divisional Commissioner of Crime Intelligence Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo, and six other high-ranking police officials. The legal turnaround follows a direct intervention by National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) Advocate Andy Mothibi. The NPA said the decision was triggered by "emerging, undisputed evidence of serious irregularities" in how the State handled the high-profile case. The withdrawal vindicates a significant portion of the South African Police Service Crime Intelligence top brass. Charges were dropped against Khumalo, Major-General Philani Lushaba (CFO at Crime Intelligence), Major-General Nosipho Precious Madondo (Component Head of Intelligence Analysis and Coordination), Major-General Josias Lekalakala (Gauteng Provincial Head: Crime Intelligence), Major-General Zwelithini Gabela (Technical Management Services), Brigadier Phindile Ncube (Section Head: Personnel Security - Vetting) and Brigadier Dine Mokwele. Mothibi invoked Section 179(5)(c) of the Constitution, read alongside Section 22(2)(b) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act. These legal provisions grant the NDPP the explicit power to review and intervene in prosecutions if established policy directives are violated. The NPA said the decision was reached after a "careful review" of case evidence compiled by IDAC, legal representations submitted by the accused officers' defence teams and "undisputed testimonies" delivered during the ongoing Madlanga Commission, which is currently investigating internal streams of IDAC. Testimonies at the Madlanga Commission exposed severe procedural flaws and improper conduct in the building of the State's case. While the Commission has not yet concluded its work or submitted a final report to the President, the NDPP ruled that immediate intervention was necessary to safeguard the integrity of the NPA and ensure the interests of justice. The NPA has launched formal disciplinary processes against three suspended IDAC officials implicated in improper conduct during the Madlanga Commission hearings. The NPA explained that a comprehensive process to "reset" IDAC is now underway to restore eroding public confidence and the unit is executing mandatory lifestyle audits alongside skills and qualifications assessments to ensure staff are fit for purpose. Following recent leadership shakeups, the NPA confirmed that the process to appoint a new acting Investigating Director is being treated with the "utmost urgency". This systemic reform strategy aligns with a joint mandate delivered by the Minister of Justice and the NDPP during a media briefing last month, aimed at forcing the unit to operate strictly within the bounds of the law. The NPA has promised full communication with the public once the institutional overhaul and leadership appointments are finalised.

ANC lays criminal charges against coalition partner's Mark Burke The ANC said on Friday it has pursued criminal charges against DA MP Dr Mark Burke, as well as the fintech company Kastelo, following a South African Reserve Bank (SARB) investigation into Kastelo, with which Burke is linked. On Wednesday, the DA removed Burke from Parliament's finance committee and stripped him of his title as the party's finance spokesperson, as the investigation unfolds. ANC chief whip Mdumiseni Ntuli said the party's decision to take Burke to court did not mean that it was "making findings" but rather that the party was demanding answers. The SARB is investigating alleged exchange-control contraventions relating to the company, which the ANC said cannot be labelled political. "The ANC Parliamentary Caucus respects the constitutional and statutory mandates of law-enforcement and regulatory institutions. We therefore expect the allegations to be investigated thoroughly, independently and without fear, favour or political interference. No individual or company is above the law. There are serious questions about whether South Africans' foreign-exchange allowances were allegedly used as conduits for the export of capital by Kastelo without the permissions required by law," the party said in a statement. Responding to media reporting on Tuesday, Burke expressed his "full respect" for the SARB's investigation into potential exchange control contraventions but urged accurate factual reporting. Burke clarified that he is not the chairperson of Kastelo Proprietary Limited and he holds no operational involvement in the investigated company. Burke said he previously chaired the broader Kastelo Group but exited that role in February 2026. He added that he originally resigned from Kastelo in 2024 to pursue his political career. The ANC said if there is no connection between Burke and the company, an investigation will prove that. "If there is, South Africans have a right to know. The ANC Parliamentary Caucus calls on the SAPS, Hawks, NPA, SARB and Parliament's Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests, within their respective mandates, to follow the evidence. We also call on members of the public to read the court judgment on this matter, as well as the ANC Parliamentary Caucus affidavit, to fully appreciate the seriousness and gravity of the issues before the relevant authorities," the ANC said. It added that the DA's move to remove Burke from parliamentary committees was not a substitution for accountability.

Parly champions coordinated regional strategy for migration governance, expansion of legislative dialogue Parliament must move beyond reactive measures and lead the charge in building robust governance systems, driving evidence-based policies, and leveraging parliamentary diplomacy to address the complex realities of continental migration. This according to Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation chairperson Supra Mahumapelo, following the conclusion of a multi-stakeholder workshop on migration governance and parliamentary diplomacy. The workshop, hosted with the International Organisation for Migration and the Wits School of Governance, brought together lawmakers and experts to dissect shifting migration trends. Participants firmly rejected isolated interventions, concluding that migration is a "multidimensional phenomenon" requiring deep coordination between government and civil society. Mahumapelo stressed that the phenomenon is a permanent global and continental reality. The State's responsibility lies in strengthening institutional and administrative systems, deepening regional and international cooperation, promoting social cohesion across host and migrant communities and addressing the fundamental socioeconomic root causes of displacement, he said. The discussions identified labour mobility, economic disparities, and Africa's rapidly growing youth demographic as the primary drivers of migration across borders. To counter irregular migration, the committee noted that African governments must urgently prioritise creating sustainable domestic economic opportunities. By empowering young people within their own nations, countries can mitigate the economic pressures that force citizens to migrate, the discussions concluded. Furthermore, the committee stressed that South Africa's management of migration must remain anchored within the framework of the Constitution, the rule of law, and its broader international human rights obligations. A breakthrough at the workshop was the proposed expansion of legislative dialogue. Lawmakers agreed that unilateral policies are insufficient for shared border dynamics. Mahumapelo revealed plans to scale up communication channels directly with neighbouring parliaments whose citizens are highly impacted by migration. The long-term strategy involves elevating these bilateral talks to continental bodies such as the Pan-African Parliament to harmonise regional frameworks and support broader African integration. To convert the workshop's insights into actionable governance, the committee outlined several urgent policy recommendations, urging for the overhauling of current migration laws to fit modern geopolitical realities, eliminating bureaucratic silos between State departments and upgrading municipal infrastructure to handle shifting populations. Mahumapelo also called for the rolling out of initiatives to counter misinformation and xenophobia and to institutionalise regular forums to monitor policy progress. He said Parliament has pledged to utilise its legislative and oversight powers to ensure these integration, development, and social cohesion targets are actively met.

DA wants Parly hearing after scathing SCA ruling on Kusile pollution The DA has requested an urgent joint oversight hearing in Parliament following a landmark Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) judgment regarding ongoing pollution at Eskom's Kusile power station. The party describes the ruling as a damning indictment of the power utility and the regulatory bodies tasked with monitoring it. The SCA overturned a 2024 High Court dismissal, ruling that Eskom failed in its legal duty to control, minimise, and rectify water pollution flowing from Kusile into downstream water resources and neighbouring farmlands. The court found Eskom in breach of its 2008 environmental authorisations, the National Environmental Management Act, the National Water Act and Section 24 of the South African Constitution. DA spokesperson on Electricity and Energy Kevin Mileham confirmed the party wants an urgent joint hearing involving the Electricity and Energy, Water and Sanitation, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment committees. The DA wants Eskom's board, executive management, and relevant departmental directors-general to appear before Parliament to table a comprehensive corrective action plan, pollution monitoring data and enforcement records, environmental and social conditions linked to Kusile's financing and disclosures of lender notifications, waivers, and independent environmental reviews. Mileham highlighted that the costly Kusile was funded by taxpayers, yet suffered years of unaddressed pollution limits and weak regulatory enforcement. The judgment raises critical questions about what Eskom communicated to its international and domestic lenders, he added. Eskom's own financial statements show that environmental performance previously impacted its loan agreements. During previous temporary-stack arrangements, Eskom had to engage three lenders to avoid breaching loan conditions, while two lenders mandated independent environmental reviews. Parliament must now establish whether these newly identified pollution failures triggered financial exposure clauses, whether lenders were formally notified, and if the National Treasury was advised of potential fiscal risks, Mileham said. The SCA has placed tight timelines on the State entities: Eskom must file a sworn corrective action plan within 30 days and report on implementation within 60 days and directors-general have 75 days to explain what enforcement action will follow. The DA maintains that since the public has already "paid heavily" for Kusile's cost overruns and delays, Parliament must ensure environmental failures do not create further financial ruin. The party wants Eskom and its regulators to now be held strictly accountable to the deadlines imposed by the court.

South Africa consumer inflation slows more than expected in July South Africa's inflation rate slowed for the first time in five months in July, partly due to a steep drop in fuel costs, but analysts said it could soon climb again as renewed US-Iran hostilities had since driven global oil prices higher. Headline inflation in Africa's largest economy eased to 4.3% year-on-year, lower than the 4.5% predicted by economists polled by Reuters and June's 5.0% reading, Statistics South Africa data showed on Wednesday. The agency attributed the slowdown to three main factors: softer food inflation, lower municipal tariff increases and a decline in fuel prices. Food and non-alcoholic beverage inflation fell to its lowest level in more than 16 years, reaching 0.9% in annual terms, largely due to cereals and meat. Municipalities implement tariff increases in July each year, and most categories saw smaller increases than in 2025. Petrol prices decreased by 7.1% and diesel by 11.7% between June and July, pulling the annual rate for fuel down to 20.6% from 34.3% in June. Inflation remains above the central bank's 3% target. August's inflation reading comes out on the same day as the bank's next monetary policy announcement on September 23. The central bank surprised investors and economists by keeping rates unchanged in July, saying its policy was restrictive enough to return inflation to its target within two years.

Ramaphosa objects to Thandazani Madonsela as Impeachment Committee evidence leader President Cyril Ramaphosa has formally objected to the appointment of advocate Thandazani Madonsela as the Chief Evidence Leader for the upcoming parliamentary impeachment inquiry, claiming conflicts of interest. The objection has forced the Section 89 Impeachment Committee to halt proceedings and seek urgent independent legal opinion. Ramaphosa argued that Madonsela has "clear conflicts of interest". And in his submissions, the President pointed out that he removed Madonsela from the Judicial Service Commission in 2022. This history creates a risk of a personal grievance, Ramaphosa argued. He also said that the ANC noted that Madonsela previously advised the party on matters tied to this exact impeachment inquiry. Ramaphosa made the submissions under rule 167, which allows interested persons to submit concerns to the National Assembly and its committees, section 54, which gives the President the right to speak in the assembly and section 41(1)(h), which requires State organs to share information and try to avoid legal battles. ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula explained that party representatives abstained from voting on advocate Madonsela. The party is concerned that a legal expert who advised a client on a case should not act in a neutral or decision-making role on that same matter later. The President believes this appointment breaks core conflict-of-interest rules and should not go forward. "I am not aware of the nature or extent of the information disclosed to Adv. Madonsela SC, nor of the nature or extent of the legal advice he provided. I understand, however, that the ANC has addressed a letter to the Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly raising concerns regarding Adv. Madonsela SC's recommendation based on the legal advice which he previously provided. "Ordinarily, a legal practitioner ought not to act in a matter that is substantially the same as one in which he or she previously advised a former client who is involved in that matter, particularly where confidential or privileged information may have been disclosed," said Ramaphosa. He noted that a person should not assume a decision-making or quasi-adjudicative role in proceedings concerning a matter in which they previously acted for, or advised, a party who is to be directly or indirectly affected by those proceedings. Following a heated debate and a subsequent vote, the committee resolved to refer Ramaphosa's objection to Parliament's Legal Services Office to assess their available options. Committee chairperson Makashule Gana confirmed that the committee will also use this pause to finalise its framework. Members have until Wednesday to submit written feedback on the draft terms of reference. The committee will officially reconvene on September 1 to review these submissions and chart the path forward based on the incoming legal opinion.

DA removes Mark Burke from finance committee amid SARB probe The DA has removed Mark Burke from Parliament's finance committee and his role as the party's finance spokesperson following a South African Reserve Bank (SARB) investigation into a company, Kastelo Proprietary Limited, with which he is linked. While the party maintains a "strict stance on accountability" and awaits formal findings, it said it acted to avoid conflicts of interest, appointing Kingsley Wakelin as the new finance spokesperson. On Tuesday the party affirmed its commitment to due process and the independence of State institutions. DA Federal Council chairperson Ashor Sarupen stated that the party will not interfere with or prejudge the ongoing central bank probe, adding the party maintains a "strict stance on accountability" but emphasised that decisions must be guided by "verified legal outcomes rather than premature assumptions". The party vowed to not treat Burke as guilty without formal findings and that it will "act appropriately" if any "competent authority" proves wrongdoing. Responding to media reporting on Tuesday, Burke expressed his "full respect" for the SARB's investigation into potential exchange control contraventions but urged accurate factual reporting. Burke clarified that he is not the chairperson of Kastelo Proprietary Limited and he holds no operational involvement in the investigated company. Burke said he previously chaired the broader Kastelo Group but exited that role in February 2026. He added that he originally resigned from Kastelo in 2024 to pursue his political career. Addressing the recent legal setback, Burke noted that the High Court judgment was strictly procedural. Burke maintained that he has consistently acted ethically, taking extensive proactive steps since entering Parliament to avoid any potential conflicts of interest regarding his former business ties. He revealed that he formally notified the DA leadership and the parliamentary finance committee secretary that he must be entirely recused from any matters involving the SARB. POLITICAL BACKLASH The GOOD Party said Burke is unfit to serve on Parliament's Standing Committees on Finance and Appropriations and Public Accounts. "What is alarming about the Burke case is not only the scale of the alleged contraventions by his company, Kastelo, but also the modus operandi manipulating the modest wealth of relatively poor people to maximise financial benefits to the privileged," said GOOD Secretary-General Brett Herron. While the DA can choose whoever it wishes to speak about finance on its behalf, Herron said it besmirches parliament's integrity for Burke to have continued serving as a parliamentary financial watchdog.

DA stands by 'due process' as MP Mark Burke addresses SARB probe The DA has affirmed its commitment to due process and the independence of State institutions following reports of a South African Reserve Bank (SARB) investigation into financial services company Kastelo Proprietary Limited, and which involves DA MP and party federal finance chairperson Mark Burke. DA Federal Council Chairperson Ashor Sarupen stated that the party will not interfere with or prejudge the ongoing central bank probe, adding the party maintains a "strict stance on accountability" but emphasised that decisions must be guided by "verified legal outcomes rather than premature assumptions". The SARB probe is investigating exchange control contraventions relating to the company, Katselo, which was founded by Burke. The party said it will not treat Burke as guilty without formal findings and that it will "act appropriately" if any "competent authority" proves wrongdoing. The party highlighted its belief in the independence of regulatory bodies. "There is no finding of wrongdoing against Burke that would justify the DA treating him as though such a finding had already been made," Sarupen explained, stressing that this stance applies to all party representatives. Responding to the recent media reporting on Tuesday, Burke expressed his "full respect" for the SARB's investigation into potential exchange control contraventions but urged for accurate factual reporting. Burke clarified that he is not the chairperson of Kastelo Proprietary Limited and he holds no operational involvement in the investigated company. Burke said he previously chaired the broader Kastelo Group but exited that role in February 2026. He added that he originally resigned from Kastelo in 2024 to pursue his political career. Addressing the recent legal setback, Burke noted that the High Court judgment was strictly procedural. The court ruled only that the Reserve Bank had sufficient grounds to maintain a temporary blocking order while its inquiry continues. "The High Court judgment does not make any finding of wrongdoing against Kastelo, nor myself," Burke said. "Nor does the judgment constitute a finding that exchange control contraventions have been proven." Burke maintained that he has consistently acted ethically, taking extensive proactive steps since entering parliament to avoid any potential conflicts of interest regarding his former business ties. He revealed that he formally notified the DA leadership and the parliamentary finance committee secretary that he must be entirely recused from any matters involving the SARB. "The record of recusal is very clear," Burke said. "I did this to maintain strong ethical boundaries and will continue to do so." Furthermore, the MP confirmed that all required financial disclosures were submitted "timeously and accurately" to the parliamentary Register of Members' Interests. Burke emphasised that he remains confident the completed SARB inquiry will vindicate him, noting that no personal allegations of misconduct or investigations have been directed against him.

Nene appointed Financial and Fiscal Commission chair President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Nhlanhla Nene as chairperson of the Financial and Fiscal Commission (FFC) and Malijeng Ngqaleni as its deputy chairperson. Additionally, Bulelwa Nqadolo, Neo Tsholanku, Andrew Donaldson and Astrid Ludin have been appointed as members of the commission. The appointments are for a period of five years. The chairperson serves as a full-time member, while the deputy chairperson and the other members serve on a part-time basis, the Presidency says. The FFC's primary objective is to make recommendations to Parliament, the provincial legislatures, local government and other organs of State on financial and fiscal matters as envisaged in the Constitution and other national legislation. Nene is a former Finance Minister and has served as a Member of Parliament, as Finance Deputy Minister and as a member of the Local Organising Committee for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Ngqaleni is currently a member of the FFC. She formerly served as National Treasury Intergovernmental Relations deputy director-general, as well as Provincial and Local Government Infrastructure chief director and Provincial Budget and Policy Analysis director. Nqadolo previously served as Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury Municipal Financial Governance deputy director-general, CFO and chief director, as well as Eastern Cape Financial Administration director. Further, Tsholanku serves as South African Revenue Service (SARS) Legal Services Head of Corporate. He previously served as SARS Head of Criminal Investigations, and as State-owned utility Eskom Legal and Compliance GM, chief legal adviser and legal team manager. Tsholanku has served as South African Broadcasting Corporation senior legal adviser, was a practising advocate and has also served as Public Prosecutor. Donaldson is a University of Cape Town Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit senior research associate. He is a former National Treasury deputy director-general responsible for the Budget Office and Public Finance, and served as Government Technical Advisory Centre acting head. Ludin is president of the International Organisation of Pension Supervisors. She was a deputy commissioner of regulator the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), where she was responsible for oversight over financial markets and retirement fund supervision, as well as the digital transformation of the FSCA. Additionally, Ludin served as Companies and Intellectual Property Commission Commissioner, as Department of Trade, Industry and Competition deputy director-general, as Competition Commission deputy commissioner and as senior adviser at regulator the Prudential Authority. Ramaphosa thanked former FFC chairperson Dr Patience Nombeko Mbava for her dedication and expertise during her term of office.

Joburg collapse guarantees national failure, warns CDE report Preventing the total collapse of Johannesburg must become an urgent national priority. This is the warning issued by Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) director Ann Bernstein, following the release of the organisation's report, 'Johannesburg Matters: Fixing South Africa's Growth Engine'. Bernstein emphasised that Johannesburg is the single municipality whose failure guarantees national failure. If South Africa's principal economic gateway cannot be saved, the entire country's growth and development are in jeopardy, she said. The CDE report outlines a failure across every core dimension of the municipality's mandate and indicates that structural decay is evidenced by alarming financial and operational metrics. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana revealed the city owes creditors R25.2-billion, while holding just R3.9-billion in cash. Johannesburg Water faces an infrastructure backlog of R26.6-billion. At current spending rates, replacing the city's aging pipes will take nearly 200 years. The city has an electricity infrastructure backlog of R44-billion, resulting in a staggering 54 132 power outages between July and December 2025 alone. In the second quarter of 2026, Johannesburg recorded the highest official unemployment rate among South African metros at 35.9%. The city lost 90 000 jobs between April 2025 and June 2026, while Cape Town gained 57 000. The CDE warned that these crises are not isolated and form a "destructive feedback loop". "Poor governance destroys municipal finances, which halts infrastructure maintenance. Consequently, businesses and skilled professionals flee, eroding the tax base and leaving fewer resources to fix the city," the organisation pointed out. The root of Johannesburg's decay is political instability, the CDE states. Since 2016, the city has cycled through nine different mayors and eight fragile coalitions. The total absence of a mayor completing a full five-year term has destroyed stable, long-term planning. According to Bernstein, continuing down this road of "dysfunctional, unstable coalitions" means an accelerated decline. She said weak leadership will remain incapable of making hard decisions, appointing skilled professionals, or attracting vital investment. The upcoming local government elections present a stark choice for voters, Bernstein said, adding that the city's crisis is political, not technical, and requires a clean break from unstable coalitions. "Johannesburg can recover," Bernstein insisted. "This is only possible if the elections produce stable, honest political leadership." However, new leadership cannot fix the metro in isolation. Reversing the decline will require the incoming government to actively mobilise outside experts and forge deep partnerships with Johannesburg's private sector, financial markets, academic institutions, and civic organisations. https://www.polity.org.za/article/johannesburg-matters-joburg-in-jeopardy-2026-08-18

South Africa takes over regional economic bloc as trade falters South Africa is taking over leadership of the Southern African Development Community with a push to deepen regional commerce, as the bloc's own assessment shows it faces tepid economic growth, persistent trade barriers and declining industrialisation. Pretoria's ascendancy to the chairmanship of the 16-member bloc this month follows protests against undocumented migrants in South Africa that forced tens of thousands of people, mainly from Zimbabwe and Malawi, to leave the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa sought to address that issue directly before SADC leaders began a summit on Monday, saying South Africa was "deeply concerned and ashamed" that nationals of other countries had recently faced discrimination and ill-treatment. "We cannot preach integration at summits and practice exclusion in our streets," he said. SADC's State of the Region report, scheduled to be adopted at the summit in the eastern port city of Durban on Monday, shows intra-bloc trade remains below pre-pandemic levels, with manufacturing losing ground and growth too weak to meet its job-creation and economic development targets. Intra-regional trade grew to 20% in 2025, according to the report. Nine long-standing non-tariff barriers remain unresolved, while recurring trade disputes, import restrictions and surcharges continue to increase the cost of doing business across borders. Regional growth increased to 3.4% last year and is forecast at 3.9% in 2026. Yet Zimbabwe was the only SADC member to meet its 7% growth target in 2025, and none are projected to reach it this year. Manufacturing's contribution to regional gross domestic product fell to 10.9% in 2025, well short of the bloc's target of 30% by 2030. Remittance Flows South Africa exported $28.3-billion of goods to SADC in 2024 and imported $6.8-billion, data compiled by the Stellenbosch, South Africa-based Trade Law Centre shows. The bloc accounted for 91% of South Africa's intra-African exports, with the country supplying neighbours with industrial goods, machinery, food and consumer products. The imbalance is also reflected in remittances. More than R112-billion was remitted from South Africa to SADC countries between 2016 and 2024, according to South African Reserve Bank data. Remittances to the region rose to R19.3-billion in 2024, with Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi accounting for 90% of payments. Remittance inflows from SADC countries to South Africa totalled R25.6-billion over the period, leaving an R87-billion difference. South Africa's yearlong chairmanship of the bloc will focus on promoting industrialisation, regional value chains and infrastructure, with the government seeking greater processing of critical minerals and agricultural products within the region. The bloc's Regional Development Fund is also expected to feature prominently as SADC seeks to mobilise capital for industrial projects and infrastructure. Its 2026-27 corporate plan calls for implementation of a revised roadmap for the fund.

Ramaphosa calls for common market in SADC to develop industries The 16 Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, with a combined population of nearly 400-million people, have abundant natural resources, a youthful population and the means to produce everything that its people need, says South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. SADC needs to create a dynamic common market in which countries trade. No country in the region can build an integrated power system, develop cross-border corridors, manage shared water resources or withstand the full force of climate change on its own. "We need to remove the costs that we have imposed on ourselves, from reducing the price of phone calls and money transfers to reducing waiting times at our borders and harmonising customs procedures. However, this must not be limited to only increasing trade with each other. "We must produce goods and services together. We must assemble cars in one SADC country from parts manufactured in another, using materials produced in a third," he states in a weekly letter to the nation. Southern Africa has abundant energy resources, minerals and land, skills, technology, industrial capabilities and strong financial institutions. However, the region imports much of the goods and services it needs. Trade among SADC countries accounts for only about 20% of their combined total trade. "Our region holds much of the world's critical minerals, yet we export the ore and import the battery. We are supplying an industrial revolution taking place elsewhere and buying back its products at a price set by others," he says. SADC countries must link their economies through corridors of goods, services and industry. The Maputo, North-South, Trans-Kalahari, Beira and Lobito corridors are being developed, but the region needs to do more so that they become living arteries of commerce, carrying freight, electricity, data and people, Ramaphosa says. Further, the region has the Southern African Power Pool, which means that electricity generated in one country powers businesses and lights homes in another. The task now is to widen that pool to ensure all parts of Southern Africa have a reliable supply of affordable energy, he adds. SADC must similarly develop its shared water resources so that every country has the water it needs to supply its industries and its people in a sustainable manner. Meanwhile, SADC needs to invest in infrastructure and industry. However, the region's most precious asset is its people. More than half of SADC's population is under the age of 30. To realise this demographic dividend, SADC must ensure every young person is given the best foundation for success in life. "As a region, we should work together to ensure every child has sufficient food and water, that they have quality healthcare and can access early childhood development. To realise their potential, we need to invest in our schools, universities, technical and vocational colleges and research institutions." These are some of the actions that this SADC Summit will consider as South Africa works to achieve SADC's Vision 2050 for an integrated, productive and prosperous region. South Africa hosted the forty-sixth Summit of SADC, in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, on August 17, starting the country's turn as chair of SADC. South Africa's focus is on the practical steps needed to further integrate the economies of SADC and build a dynamic regional market, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of growing turbulence in the global economy. South Africa's membership of SADC is about the creation of jobs and improving the quality of life of South Africans, growth of its industries, the development of its infrastructure and the health and well-being of its people. "South Africa's prosperity is bound to that of our neighbours. All of us must now turn the enormous potential that our region has into growth, development and jobs," says Ramaphosa.

KZN Premier urges SADC to renew commitment to public diplomacy as leaders meet Ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa's public lecture for the 46th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Premier Thami Ntuli urged proactiveness and adaptiveness to deal with changing economic and geopolitical dynamics. South Africa is hosting heads of State in KwaZulu-Natal, under the theme 'Translating SADC Vision 2050 into Action: Pathways Towards Solidarity, Equality and Shared Prosperity'. The public lecture aims to initiate reflection and public dialogue on practical pathways for advancing regional integration, industrialisation, infrastructure development, peace, security and inclusive development in Southern Africa. Speaking at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday, Ntuli welcomed delegates by declaring that continental unity is not a slogan but a responsibility. As South Africa faces immigration tensions with fellow African countries, Ntuli urged togetherness through deliberate effort. "…a Summit succeeds not only in what is signed, but in what is understood. Let SADEC gathering in Durban inspire a renewed commitment to public diplomacy – investment in exchange programmes, regional media partnerships, and cultural cooperation. Let our citizens know each other as SADC intended: not as foreigners bound by treaty, but as one people bound by a shared future," he said. He described the Summit as the architecture of shared prosperity and as a catalyst for a working political economy. He said KZN's trade infrastructure was not provincial but regional, highlighting the importance of Durban and Richards Bay in ensuring trade between SADC countries. "We therefore carry a responsibility beyond our provincial borders. Every rand we invest in our ports serves this region. Every improvement to our logistics corridors serves this region. Every partnership we build serves the SADC vision of shared growth," Ntuli said.

Court reinstates NSFAS board, suspends administrator appointment The Pretoria High Court has granted interim relief suspending the appointment of National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula and immediately reinstating the institution's board. The ruling temporarily reverses the May decision by Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela to dissolve the board and place NSFAS under administration owing to ongoing governance instability. In May, following consultations and consideration of alternatives, Manamela announced the appointment of Mathebula as NSFAS Administrator. Welcoming the court's decision, the NSFAS board announced that its urgent focus will centre on stabilising the financial aid institution, strengthening internal governance mechanisms and fulfilling the core mandate of providing financial assistance to eligible South African students. While the interim relief allows the board to return to office under Part A of the application, the legal battle is not yet concluded. Part B of the review application is still awaiting a final determination by the High Court. Because the matter remains sub judice, the board noted it will not comment further on the ongoing legal proceedings. The board addressed the widespread public concern and controversy surrounding NSFAS operations. The leadership pledged to investigate outstanding issues as a matter of priority, stating that appropriate legal and administrative action will be taken if any wrongdoing is identified. Furthermore, the board reaffirmed its commitment to working constructively with Manamela and broader higher education stakeholders to navigate the sector's current challenges.

SADC Summit: Ramaphosa calls for regional action on xenophobia, GBV President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday delivered a powerful vision for the renewal of Southern Africa, calling for urgent regional action on gender-based violence, xenophobia, migration and climate change. Heads of State gathered at the University of KwaZulu-Natal for the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, where Ramaphosa delivered a public lecture, stressing that achieving the region's long-term developmental goals is possible but requires shifting from policy debates to direct action. He emphasised that the continent's response to abuse must focus heavily on prevention, survivor support, stricter legislation and better prosecutions. While advocating for more specialised sexual offences courts, he noted that legal action alone is not enough. "Prevention does not begin with women," Ramaphosa stated. "It begins with the men and the boys in our homes, our schools, our churches, our workplaces, and our taverns, who must be raised to reject violence and abuse." Meanwhile, addressing recent instances of discrimination within South Africa, Ramaphosa expressed deep concern and shame over the ill-treatment of foreign nationals. He condemned criminal acts as a "total rejection of regional solidarity", reminding the audience that Southern Africa's identity and diversity have been shaped by migration over millennia. Looking toward the region's 'Vision 2050', Ramaphosa called for an environment where people can move freely and legally. To achieve this, he urged regional leaders to collaborate on addressing the root causes of desperate migration, conflict and political instability, governance failures, deep-seated poverty and a lack of equal economic opportunities. Ramaphosa warned that economic development and foreign investment are impossible in war zones. He pointed to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as the gravest test of regional unity, paying tribute to the Southern African soldiers who have lost their lives fighting for peace there. Additionally, Ramaphosa welcomed progress in Mozambique's Inclusive National Dialogue and praised the ongoing diplomatic interventions led by the SADC Panel of Elders in Madagascar. He stressed that regional accountability institutions and election observation missions must be fully resourced to ensure democratic transparency. Reflecting on the devastating April 2022 floods in KwaZulu-Natal that claimed over 400 lives, Ramaphosa highlighted climate change as an immediate threat to infrastructure and livelihoods. To prevent future catastrophes from catching the region off guard, he proposed that the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre be strengthened for immediate, unified disaster responses. He urged for a shifting focus toward proactive disaster mitigation rather than reactive relief and said Southern African must present a united front on climate loss and damage during international climate summits. Ramaphosa stated that the ultimate success of Vision 2050 rests in the hands of the youth, rather than current political leaders. He challenged students and young people to hold leaders accountable for the implementation of regional goals. "One hundred and twenty years ago, the renewal of Africa was a proposition to be defended against a hostile world," Ramaphosa said. "It is no longer a proposition. It is a programme of work. It has actions, assigned responsibilities, and deadlines.

MKP calls ConCourt dismissal of Phala Phala interdict appeal 'lazy' The MKP on Thursday said the Constitution Court's decision to dismiss an application asking for direct access to appeal the halting of the Impeachment Inquiry against President Cyril Ramaphosa was "lazy". The apex court refused the application, brought by the African Transformation Movement, to overturn last month's High Court decision, which granted Ramaphosa an urgent interdict to halt the impeachment process. As a result, Parliament ceased its public hearings into the Phala Phala game farm scandal. The Constitutional Court concluded that it is not in the interest of justice to hear the matter at this stage. An imminent judicial review decision in the Western Cape Division of the High Court will likely render the interim interdict moot, the order read. The MKP said it was concerned by the ruling and regarded the decision as a "regrettably evasive judicial response". "The Constitutional Court has missed an opportunity to pronounce decisively on whether a lower court may interfere with, suspend, circumvent or effectively overrule a decision or process flowing directly from the Constitutional Court itself. That is not a peripheral procedural issue. It goes directly to the hierarchy, authority and integrity of our constitutional judicial system. At a time of growing public concern about whether powerful office-bearers are subjected to the same standards of accountability as ordinary citizens, decisions of this nature inevitably deepen public scepticism," the party rationalised. It stressed the need for the judiciary to stay independent and said silence on constitutional questions raises uncertainty than clarity.

DA lays criminal charges against 10 'worst' municipal managers The DA announced on Thursday that it will lay criminal charges against 10 municipal managers across nine municipalities, labelling these officials the "worst" in the country due to systemic financial negligence. DA Parliamentary leader George Michalakis stated that the targeted officials have presided over a decade of "financial chaos". The charges are based on consecutive "disclaimed audit opinions" from the Auditor-General and the DA has accused these municipalities of regularly ignoring official recommendations and failing to submit basic financial statements. According to Michalakis, local resources are being "milked dry" while citizens are left without basic services. The criminal charges target 10 specific administrators across four provinces. Free State: Majalefa Matlole of Masilonyana, Mokete Solomon Nhlapo of Nketoana, Mopedi Mohale of Mohokare, Matthews Mofokeng of Maluti-A-Phofung, and Futhulu Patrick Mothamaha, a former manager.North West: Olaotse Bojosinvane of Ditsobotla and Olehile Allan Losaba of Ngaka Modiri Molema.Eastern Cape: Thabiso Klaas of Sundays River Valley and Pumelelo Maxwell Kate of Makana.Western Cape: Advocate Dillo Sereo of Kannaland. Notably, this is the second time the DA has taken aim at Makana's Kate. The party laid charges against him last year for the ongoing environmental pollution of the Kowie River. The DA is pursuing these cases under Section 173(1) of the Municipal Finance Management Act, which criminalises gross financial negligence, material accounting irregularities and supplying false information to the Auditor-General. The DA stated that the ANC has historically "recycled" failing officials by moving them between different State roles. DA National Spokesperson Karabo Khakhau stated that the party's objective is to force these individuals into the criminal justice system. Khakhau reiterated that local governance must pivot toward merit-based appointments, strict accountability, and continuous skills development.

Mapisa-Nqakula's corruption trial postponed as she seeks discharge The Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria on Thursday postponed the high-profile corruption trial of former National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula to August 20. The postponement comes at the request of her defence team to secure the transcribed case records required to file an application for a discharge. The Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) confirmed that the pause in proceedings will allow the defence to prepare an application in terms of Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act. This statutory provision allows an accused person to apply for an acquittal at the close of the prosecution's case if they believe there is no credible evidence showing they committed the offence. IDAC Spokesperson Henry Mamothame explained that Mapisa-Nqakula has formally placed it on record in court that she will pursue this discharge. The former Speaker faces substantial criminal charges, including 12 counts of corruption for allegedly abusing her official capacity, one count of money laundering linked to State contracts, R4.5-million solicited from a prominent State service provider and R2.1-million allegedly received as direct cash payments. The State has now officially closed its case after presenting its evidence and witnesses. The prosecution team is currently awaiting the formal heads of argument from Mapisa-Nqakula's legal representation regarding the discharge application. Once received, the State will draft and file its counter-reply ahead of the resumed court session next Thursday.

SAHRC says water crisis should be declared a state of disaster The South Africa Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) stands firm on its view that the country's water crisis needs to be declared a national disaster. This is despite the publication last month of the National Water Plan, developed by the Presidency-led National Water Crisis Committee (Watercom), which promised to tackle the long-standing water challenges. SAHRC Commissioner Dr Henk Boshoff said that given the scale, scope and magnitude of the water crisis, the commission is calling for the water crisis to be declared a national disaster in accordance with the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002. Speaking during a SAHRC-hosted webinar on the water crisis, he explained the water crisis requires an urgent, broad, integrated and coordinated effort, and the declaration of a state of national disaster will enable the mobilisation of emergency funds, better intergovernmental collaboration and deliver a coordinated process. Water-related complaints continue to rank in the top five complaints received by the SAHRC. This, alongside the commission's six provincial inquiries related to water since 2021 across KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape and Gauteng, and the South African Water Rights Tracker, a project partnership between the SAHRC and the University of the Witwatersrand, reveal the scale of the crisis. Through the inquiries and the Water Rights Tracker, the SAHRC has identified several drivers that inhibit the ability of water services authorities to effectively deliver water. These include aging infrastructure; an inadequate funding model; high levels of indebted to water boards, at R28-billion; skills deficit and lack of capacity in technical departments; the discharge of untreated effluent into water resources and high levels of water losses; water sabotage, theft of infrastructure and emergence of water mafias; and a water tankering system fraught with corruption. Boshoff said the water crisis is widespread and causing a significant disruption in the lives of communities. "We are aware that the National Water Action Plan was recently released. We agree that the symptoms have been identified. We agree that there is a proper diagnosis of the problem," he said, questioning, however, if the action plan adequately deals with the challenges going forward. The SAHRC is of the view that declaring a national state of disaster will, among others, ensure greater and enhanced governmental collaboration, budget prioritisation and emergency and speedier procurement. "Government simply does not have sufficient funds at this stage to address the water crisis, and it will be a process that will be unfolding over quite a few years," Boshoff continued, noting that time will tell whether the national water plan is sufficient to address the water crisis. Unpacking the National Action Plan during the seminar, Department of Water and Sanitation director general Dr Sean Phillips said that a state of disaster will not achieve much more than what is already being undertaken to ensure water security. He agreed that urgent action is needed to address immediate crises, however, reforming the sector for long-term sustainability is also required. The declaration of a national state of disaster will not address the core causes of the challenges, and would not result in a sustainable sector. "I can understand the reasoning for it, but I am still not convinced that it would result in much more than is currently the case. [Emergency procurement, for example] might, in the short term, result in some [elements] being addressed more quickly. But unless you address the root causes, the problems are going to keep coming back," Phillips noted. The National Water Action Plan contains the elements required to address the real root causes, which the disaster provisions could not do. Further, he said it would not result in much more money being allocated. "It is a zero-sum game. If y...

DA hits back at GNU partner ANC's 'Thatcherite' critique of manifesto DA Federal Council Chairperson Ashor Sarupen has hit back at ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula's criticism of the DA's newly launched election manifesto, arguing that the ANC's reliance on "outdated ideological labels exposes its inability to challenge the DA's substantive local government plans". Following the DA's launch of its local government manifesto, ahead of the upcoming municipal elections, Mbalula took to social media to pan the policy document. Mbalula labelled the DA's platform a "Thatcherite" manifesto, accusing the party of aiming to privatise the State. He further noted that the DA's inclusion in the current Government of National Unity (GNU) was merely a byproduct of the ANC losing its outright majority. Sarupen dismissed the remarks as a weak "tantrum", stating that the ANC has no real defence for its own record of failed governance. Sarupen further argued that South African citizens are tired of "liberation-era slogans" and are instead desperate for functioning basic services, such as refuse removal and water. The clash seemingly stems from the DA's manifesto laying out the inclusion of the private sector in doling out basic services in municipalities. Sarupen pointed out that the ANC already relies on private sector participation to prevent total service collapse in municipalities it governs, such as Mafube and KwaDukuza. The DA rationalised that while the State should deliver services efficiently where it can, it must partner with businesses and communities to achieve faster, better-value results. "That is not 'Thatcherism'," Sarupen hit back. "It is called governing." He also noted Mbalula's comment regarding the DA's presence in the GNU. "Perhaps the most revealing part of Mbalula's statement... is his admission that the DA is in the Government of National Unity because of the 'collapse of the ANC majority.' On that, at least, we agree," Sarupen said. He argued that those millions of voters abandoned the ANC because the ruling party confused State ownership with State capacity. Sarupen declared that while the ANC "wastes time" debating 1980s British politics, the DA is focused on getting South Africa's broken municipalities working again.

ConCourt dismisses Phala Phala interdict appeal The Constitutional Court has dismissed an application brought by the African Transformation Movement (ATM), asking for direct access to appeal the halting of the Impeachment Inquiry against President Cyril Ramaphosa. ATM and its leader Vuyo Zungula brought the case to the apex court, which refused the application to overturn last month's High Court decision, which granted Ramaphosa an urgent interdict to halt the impeachment process. As a result, Parliament ceased its public hearings into the Phala Phala game farm scandal. Ramaphosa's legal team argued that public hearings cannot proceed until a separate judicial review of the Independent Panel's report concludes. The Constitutional Court concluded that it is not in the interest of justice to hear the matter at this stage. An imminent judicial review decision in the Western Cape Division of the High Court will likely render the interim interdict moot, the order read. Consequently, the apex court refused leave to appeal and leave to file a replying affidavit, deciding not to award costs. Impeachment Committee Chairperson Makashule Gana confirmed that parliamentary proceedings will adapt to the legal framework. Despite the halt on public hearings, Gana emphasised that foundational administrative work will continue. The committee's current internal operations include finalising guidelines to direct future committee work and completing recommendations for the evidence leader position. The committee will await an appointment update for the evidence leader at the next meeting and review witness lists once the evidence leader officially joins the team, Gana said.

South Africa links Russian financing to coup-accused influencer South African prosecutors allege that Russia financed an attempted escape from the country by a social media influencer wanted by Benin in connection with an attempted coup in that country in December. In court papers related to an extradition case filed in South Africa by Benin, prosecutors allege an unlikely alliance between French-born Kemi Séba, the one-time leader of a Black nationalist movement in France, with Francois van der Merwe, who heads South Africa's White nationalist Bittereinders movement. Both are linked to Russia, prosecutors allege. Séba, whose real name is Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, was arrested in Pretoria together with his son and van der Merwe on April 13 as they prepared to exit South Africa illegally over the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe, prosecutors say in the court documents seen by Bloomberg. The police masqueraded as private security hired by van der Merwe to help get Séba out the country. More than R300 000 was seized during the arrest. South African financial authorities have been asked to help trace "the funds that Mr. van der Merwe had received allegedly from the Russians to assist with the safe escorting and transfer of Mr. Capo Chichi from South Africa to Zimbabwe," the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, said in the documents. Russia has provided support to military juntas in West Africa and has been tied to disinformation campaigns across the continent aimed at eroding support for the West. Séba has been accused of aiding those efforts, including through pro-Russian, anti-French online content. Séba was to exit into Zimbabwe and fly to Europe to carry out terror attacks there and in the UK and "the information also mentioned that the person is trained by the Russians and is extremely dangerous," the Hawks said in documents filed when Séba and van der Merwe sought bail. Both are still in custody and the court will hear Benin's extradition case starting August 11. Sinenhlanhla Mguni, Séba's lawyer, said his client denies the allegations of planning attacks, disputes the alleged ties to Russia and opposes the extradition. Johan van Zyl, van der Merwe's lawyer, didn't respond to phone calls, text messages or emails. A phone number listed on Bittereinder's Facebook page wasn't answered. Russia's embassy in South Africa and Russia's foreign ministry didn't reply to emailed queries. Benin issued an international warrant for Séba's arrest after he praised the would-be mutineers on social media. He also faces charges there of money laundering and terrorism. Séba has been a prominent anti-French activist in West Africa. In 2017, he was arrested in Senegal and deported after starting a social-media storm by burning banknotes to protest the regional currency's link to France. He was stripped of French citizenship in 2024 because of alleged incitement of violence against the state. The US Department of State in 2022 accused Russia's Wagner Group of using Séba to promote pro-Russian narratives. Bittereinders says it "unashamedly fights solely for Afrikaner" interests. "We will be free again," it proclaims on its Facebook site. The group also has links with Russia. Van der Merwe attended a meeting of right-wing organisations including Germany's AfD in St. Petersburg last year.

Presidency rebukes Eskom chair over criticism South Africa's presidency rebuked the chairperson of Eskom for publicly questioning the plan to restructure the State power utility. The authorities are committed to ensuring that Eskom doesn't end up in a worse financial position than its current one, with a broad range of interested parties involved in the discussions about the unbundling of the utility, presidency spokesman Vincent Magwenya said on Tuesday. Magwenya's comments came in response to Eskom chairperson Mteto Nyati, who warned last week that plans to transferring the power company's transmission assets to an independent operator may trigger change-of-control provisions in lending agreements, create accounting complications and unsettle bondholders. Chief Executive Officer Dan Marokane in June said the unbundling needs to be handled in a way that's sustainable for the company. "It is unfortunate that Mr. Nyati creates an impression as if there's a process that's underway without the inclusion of Eskom and at the detriment of Eskom," he said. "All of Eskom's concerns are well known and have been thoroughly discussed in government and with Eskom." The dispute between the presidency and Eskom's board highlights growing tensions over the sequencing of the utility's break-up, with investors closely watching whether the transfer of transmission assets will weaken Eskom's balance sheet or alter protections for creditors. President Cyril Ramaphosa last month backed a plan for the establishment of an independent transmission system operator, ending a century-old monopoly by Eskom and bringing in private producers and traders to create a liberalised electricity market. The National Treasury is expected to appoint advisers in the coming weeks to begin negotiations with Eskom's lenders over the planned separation of the transmission business, Treasury Director-General Duncan Pieterse said last week. That process is likely to be central to determining how the restructuring can proceed without impairing creditors. The presidency emphasised that the Eskom Restructuring Task Team includes representatives from Ramaphosa's office, the Treasury, the Department of Electricity and Energy, Eskom and the National Transmission Co. South Africa. Eskom has said it supports the creation of an independent transmission system operator, but has argued that ownership of the transmission assets should remain with the utility during an interim period, until financial and creditor-related risks have been resolved. The transmission business is particularly important to Eskom's finances because it contributes about 40% of the utility's earnings, according to Nyati. He said removing the assets before legacy liabilities are addressed could materially weaken Eskom's balance sheet. The government remains committed to establishing a fully independent operator, Magwenya said. The reform is a key policy objective under the Electricity Regulation Act and is intended to support a competitive wholesale electricity market, investment and economic growth, he said.

Official unemployment rate rises to 33.6% in the second quarter Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has confirmed that South Africa's official unemployment rate increased by 0.9 of a percentage point to 33.6% for the second quarter, compared with 32.7% in the first quarter of this year. Stats SA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey shows that the number of unemployed persons increased by 345 000 quarter-on-quarter to 8.5-million, while the number of employed persons decreased by 16 000 quarter-on-quarter to 16.7-million. This resulted in an increase of 329 000 in the labour force during the same period. Discouraged job-seekers decreased by 227 000 quarter-on-quarter to 3.7-million, while other available job-seekers decreased by 49 000 quarter-onquarter to 861 000 and unavailable job-seekers decreased by 4 000 quarter-on-quarterto 44 000, resulting in a net decrease of 280 000 to 4.6-million in the potential labour force. Those outside the labour force for other reasons increased by 72 000 quarter-on-quarter to 12.5-million. Furthere, persons outside the labour force, which is the total of those in potential labour force and others outside the labour force, decreased by 208 000 to 17.1 million in the second quarter. Stats SA points out that, in addition to the unemployment rate, other indicators of labour underutilisation were measured. The combined rate of unemployment and time-related underemployment increased by 0.7 of a percentage point to 36.6%, while the combined rate of unemployment and potential labour force increased by 0.1 of a percentage point to 43.8%. The composite measure of labour underutilisation, which combines time-related underemployment, unemployment and potential labour force as a proportion of extended labour force, remained unchanged at 46.3% in the second quarter. These labour underutilisation measures highlight people in different situations with different degrees of attachment to the labour market, Stats SA states.

South African police sound alarm on political crime before vote South Africa's acting police chief said she is deeply concerned about the potential for politically-motivated violence ahead of municipal elections on November 4. South Africa has a long history of political violence, and several politicians have been murdered this year. That includes two councillors from the African National Congress, the biggest party, one Democratic Alliance candidate, two members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party and two from the Economic Freedom Fighters. Seven people have been arrested in connection with the killings. "There is absolutely no justification for taking the life of another person because of political differences or political contestation," Puleng Dimpane, the acting national police commissioner, told reporters in Pretoria on Friday. "We are issuing a stern warning to anyone who is planning attacks, assassinations or acts of violence for political gain." The local government poll is the first since the 2024 general election that saw the ANC lose the overall majority it had held since the end of apartheid. Polls show support for the party has declined further and it risks losing control of a number of towns and cities.

Voters' Roll Closed: Municipal elections proclaimed for Nov 4 South Africa is officially heading to the polls on November 4 for the highly anticipated 2026 municipal elections. The announcement follows the official gazetting of the date by Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa, signalling the formal closure of the voters' roll and the start of the election period. The proclamation fulfils Hlabisa's responsibility under Section 159 of the Constitution, read alongside the Municipal Structures Act. This legislation mandates that local government elections must take place within 90 days of the end of a five-year municipal term. With the date now legally locked in, the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has officially closed voter registration. Earlier this week, the IEC said following the gazetting, it will spend the coming weeks managing logistics, verifying candidate lists, and providing regular public updates on the road to the voting stations. Hlabisa expressed his gratitude to citizens who actively registered during the IEC's final voter registration weekend. He urged all South Africans to maintain a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election environment. "I urge all South Africans, especially women, youth, persons with disabilities, and people in rural areas under different traditional authorities, to go out and strengthen our democracy by voting," Hlabisa stated. ACTIONSA SETS SIGHT ON 'BROKEN MUNICIPALITIES' ActionSA National Chairperson Michael Beaumont declared his party's operational readiness to contest the elections, aiming to target what the party describes as South Africa's "broken municipalities." Beaumont revealed that ActionSA has radically transformed its electoral strategy since the 2021 municipal elections, moving from a regional player to a "formidable national contender". ActionSA will contest just under 60 municipalities and over 2 000 wards this year, a staggering increase from the six municipalities it contested in 2021. Following organisational growth after the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the party has expanded its footprint deep into municipalities outside its traditional stronghold of Gauteng. Beaumont highlighted that candidates were chosen through direct branch consultations to ensure local representation. "These are not candidates who have never stepped foot in the wards they seek to lead," Beaumont emphasised. "Local problems require local solutions, championed by local leaders."

Mbalula heads to court, Integrity Commission over Dlamini-Zuma's vote-buying claims ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has announced legal action against party veteran Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, following allegations that he distributed money during the party's 2022 national elective conference. Mbalula confirmed he will also refer the matter to the ANC Integrity Commission to clear his name. During a recent appearance on the African Renaissance Podcast, hosted by former EFF MP Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, Dlamini-Zuma levelled explosive allegations against high-ranking ANC officials, claiming that illicit financial influence heavily dictated internal election outcomes. Specifically, she accused Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and ANC NEC member Ronald Lamola and Mbalula of participating in vote-buying during the ANC's 54th National Conference in 2017. She also went on to accuse Mbalula of "dishing out money" at a clinic facility during the 55th National Conference in 2022 to secure his position and protect Cyril Ramaphosa's presidency. Dlamini-Zuma alleged that a circulating audio recording directly implicated Lamola in these transactional activities. Lamola issued a strong demand to Dlamini-Zuma to publicly retract claims linking him to vote-buying at the party's 2017 elective conference, categorically denying any involvement in vote-buying through phone calls, voice notes, or any other medium at any point in his career. While emphasising his respect for Dlamini-Zuma's liberation struggle credentials, Lamola made it clear that a formal retraction is necessary to avoid escalating the matter legally. Mbalula also denied the claims during a media briefing on Friday, stating that the damage to his reputation is too severe to handle through informal internal discussions. He rejected any possibility of a quiet political compromise. "There is no political solution to a charge that you have stolen money," Mbalula said. "It's either you accept you have stolen money, you have dished money, or otherwise you clear yourself." Mbalula pointed out that Dlamini-Zuma did not raise these concerns during the 2022 conference, noting that his home has never been raided, nor has any evidence of illicit cash been found. Defending his decision to pursue litigation, Mbalula referenced historical instances of ANC leaders making public claims that failed under legal scrutiny. He cited former President Jacob Zuma's unproven allegations that Derek Hanekom was an apartheid-era informer and that Ngoako Ramatlhodi was a "sellout" at the Zondo Commission. Mbalula argued that if Hanekom had not challenged Zuma in court, those damaging claims would have permanently been accepted as historical facts. While emphasising that he has no animosity toward the African Renaissance Podcast or public political debates, Mbalula warned that senior party leaders must not use media platforms to denigrate colleagues without substantive evidence. He said while he respects the "unmatched struggle history of elders" such as Dlamini-Zuma, he said must exercise "their advisory roles cautiously and guide the current leadership rather than launching unsubstantiated personal attacks".

NSFAS accuses former board member of stealing laptops meant for needy schools In a significant move towards organisational accountability, employees of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) have officially opened a criminal case of theft against a former board member for allegedly stealing laptops that were meant for under-resourced schools in the Eastern Cape. The incident goes back to March, during an Eastern Cape Donation Drive, when the former board member, who was leading the scheme's official delegation, allegedly intercepted and kept ten laptops instead of delivering them to the pre-identified schools. According to NSFAS, a total of 30 laptops had been earmarked for distribution across six high schools and each school would receive five laptops intended for communal student use. NSFAS Administrator Professor Hlengani Mathebula expressed shock and indignation over the allegations and questioned how a leader in an organisation that aims to assist economically deprived communities could commit such an act. However, Mathebula highly commended the NSFAS staff for taking a stand and pursuing justice for the affected students. "This act by our colleagues is exemplary. It testifies to the fact that we are turning the corner as an organisation, as employees are reclaiming their organisation from the grubby hands of those who have been manipulating it for their own self-enrichment while our children suffered the indignity wrought by poverty," Mathebula said. He stressed the need for the scheme to strictly be associated with high-calibre leaders and employees. Highlighting the harsh realities faced by children from impoverished backgrounds, Mathebula condemned the abuse of institutional power. "It is therefore appalling to learn that someone used his position of privilege, being a board member, to steal from the same needy children. It doesn't get worse than that," he added.

Lamola threatens legal action over Dlamini-Zuma's election-buying claims Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and ANC NEC member Ronald Lamola has issued a strong demand to ANC veteran Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, to publicly retract claims linking him to vote-buying at the party's 2017 elective conference. This after Dlamini-Zuma's appearance on the African Renaissance Podcast, hosted by former EFF MP Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, during which she levelled explosive allegations against high-ranking ANC officials, claiming that illicit financial influence heavily dictated internal election outcomes. Specifically, she accused Lamola and ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula of participating in vote-buying during the ANC's fity-fourth National Conference in 2017. She also went on to accuse Mbalula of "dishing out money" openly at a clinic facility during the fifty-fifth National Conference in 2022 to secure his position and protect Cyril Ramaphosa's presidency. Dlamini-Zuma alleged that a circulating audio recording directly implicated Lamola in these transactional activities. Responding with an open letter, Lamola expressed "deep concern and disappointment" over the remarks made by Dlamini-Zuma, a leader he says he has "long held in high esteem throughout my years of political activism". He categorically denied any involvement in vote-buying through phone calls, voice notes, or any other medium at any point in his career. Lamola pointed out that his voice and distinctive manner of speech are widely recognised across the party's structures. He argued that any "fair-minded individual" could easily discern that the voice on the audio recording does not belong to him. While emphasising his respect for Dlamini-Zuma's liberation struggle credentials, Lamola made it clear that a formal retraction is necessary to avoid escalating the matter legally. "I believe our movement has internal mechanisms and a culture of comradely engagement that should be exhausted before legal routes are pursued," Lamola stated. "It is not in my nature to turn every political disagreement into a courtroom battle." He urged Dlamini-Zuma to reconsider her statements, and urged her to do the "honourable thing" and issue a public retraction and apology "in the interest of organisational discipline and unity".

Madlanga report recommends suspension of Shadrack Sibiya, others President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the extensive recommendations and referrals detailed in the Second Interim Report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, also known as the Madlanga Commission. Submitted to the President on May 29, the second report marks a pivotal advancement in uncovering systemic corruption, following the initial interim report delivered on December 17. The Commission has recommended immediate disciplinary action and criminal investigations, potentially leading to prosecution against Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya, Witness G, Sergeant Fannie Nkosi and Brown Mogotsi. Beyond individual prosecutions, the Commission has called for a deep systemic cleanup. The inquiry was originally sparked by damning allegations raised by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi on July 6, 2025. A final, comprehensive report is expected to conclude the inquiry on November 16. The second interim report explicitly revisits the preliminary findings made against the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the first report. Spokesperson to the President Vincent Magwenya said after hearing directly from the implicated parties, the Commission has confirmed nearly all of its original recommendations, citing strong prima facie evidence. Additionally, the report introduces urgent new directives stemming from fresh evidence gathered since the beginning of 2026. The latest report has directed the Office of the Inspector General for Intelligence, or an equivalent authorised body, to launch an immediate investigation into a suspected "off-the-books" operation within Crime Intelligence. This specific unauthorised operation allegedly involved both Mogotsi and Witness G. Magwenya explained that these decisive actions are driven by the Commission's strict legal mandates, noting Clause 10.4, which empowers the Commission to refer matters for immediate criminal investigation and urgent prosecution decisions based on unfolding evidence. Clause 12, authorises the referral of any matter to law enforcement, government departments, or regulators for prosecution or separate inquiries. Magwenya said the newly identified individuals and networks will be handed over to the SAPS special investigations task team, which was established immediately after the first interim report.

Godongwana responds to court judgment declaring PIC CEO's suspension invalid Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has noted the High Court judgment declaring the suspension of Public Investment Corporation (PIC) CEO Patrick Dlamini invalid and unlawful. In a media statement, the Minister says this judgement vindicates the actions taken by the National Treasury and Cabinet to restore governance at South African's largest asset management institution. "These actions were both good and necessary, triggered in part by the hasty removal of Mr Dlamini without due consultation and process," the statement says. The Minister underscores that the PIC occupies a critical position within South Africa's financial system. "As the country's largest asset manager and the custodian of a substantial portion of public sector retirement funds, trust in its governance is of systemic importance," the Minister says. Newswire Reuters reported on August 4 that the South African High Court had declared Dlamini's suspension by the PIC board invalid, ordering his reinstatement at the helm of the embattled State asset manager. The PIC's board suspended Dlamini last month after a whistleblower complaint against him, though it said at the time that the precautionary suspension did not amount to a finding of wrongdoing. The High Court ruled that the board did not follow due process in suspending Dlamini, a copy of its decision showed.

South African private sector growth slows slightly in July, PMI shows South Africa's private sector expanded for a second straight month in July, though at a slightly slower pace as weaker employment growth and renewed stock drawdowns offset a return to output growth, a business survey showed on Wednesday. The S&P Global South Africa Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) fell to 50.3 in July from 50.5 in June, a survey by S&P Global showed. The 50-mark separates growth from contraction. Employment growth slowed sharply to a six-month low despite a first increase in backlogs of work since September. Supply chains remained stretched, with vendor delivery times lengthening for a seventh month, though the deterioration was the softest since February. New orders contracted for a third consecutive month as cautious consumer spending, protests and clients switching to cheaper imports weighed on sales. Export demand provided some support, rising for a second straight month, though less strongly than in June. However, the survey noted that South African businesses enjoyed more breathing room in July, following the cost squeeze over the second quarter, as a drop in fuel prices helped to lower the rate of input price inflation and reduce second-round wage effects. "This supported a modest revival of business activity, although sales continued to be hampered by client caution and a difficult trading environment," said David Owen, Principal Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence. Output rose for the first time in three months, ending a two-month run of contraction, although the increase was only marginal.

High Commissioner recalled after controversial Zuma-Gupta meeting in India, new protocol proposed International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has confirmed that South Africa's High Commissioner to India Anil Sooklal, has been "recalled to headquarters for consultations". This after Sooklal was photographed alongside former President and MKP leader Jacob Zuma, and notorious State Capture fugitive Ajay Gupta. The trio was spotted together in June at the Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali temple in Haridwar, India, during a religious ceremony. Critics slammed the interaction, pointing out that the Gupta family remains at the centre of South Africa's multibillion-rand State capture scandal. In response to the diplomatic headache, the government is moving to tightly regulate the international travel privileges of former leaders. Lamola announced that a recommendation has been submitted to Parliament and the Presidency to implement a rigid new framework for protocol and diplomatic support. Under this proposed framework, the Presidency and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (dirco) will jointly establish a mandatory disclosure mechanism. Former Presidents and Deputy Presidents seeking State-funded protocol assistance abroad will be required to provide strict details prior to departure, including purpose of travel, complete programme of activities, direct sources of funding, principal hosts and key engagements, and the exact capacity in which they are travelling. Lamila said this will allow the State to perform informed risk assessments regarding potential reputational, political, diplomatic, or security hazards to South Africa. Meanwhile, this recall comes amid fierce political pushback from opposition parties demanding transparency. On Wednesday, ActionSA condemned the government's decision to desist from bringing disciplinary action against Sooklal. Last month, the DA called on Lamola to launch an urgent departmental inquiry to determine whether Sooklal had received explicit, official written orders to facilitate the meeting. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni openly rebuked Sooklal for hosting the pair, describing the social interaction with a State fugitive as a "disgrace" to the nation. The political narrative shifted sharply during a subsequent parliamentary portfolio committee meeting. Data emerged suggesting that Sooklal was not acting independently, but was instead executing direct written directives issued by Dirco headquarters to assist Zuma. DA spokesperson on International Relations and Cooperation Ryan Smith, strongly questioned these contradictions. Smith stated that his party viewed the entire incident as a severe breach of diplomatic protocol and an alarming indicator of institutional capture within South Africa's foreign service. Following Lamola's announcement of Sooklal's recall, Smith said this created more questions than answers. While he welcomed the proposal for new protocols, Smith said it did not answer whether Zuma's relationship with the Guptas is being supported by government. "South Africans are no closer to understanding what happened, who is responsible, and what action will be taken while Jacob Zuma clinks glasses with the Guptas who have yet to face consequences for a raft of corruption allegations outlined in the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture," he said.

ActionSA criticise govt over failure to sanction High Commissioner to India ActionSA has condemned the government's decision to withhold disciplinary action against South Africa's High Commissioner to India Anil Sooklal. The party called on Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) Ronald Lamola to make public the reason behind the decision. In addition to demanding transparency, ActionSA is calling for the immediate disclosure of all internal investigative findings. The party wants to know why disciplinary sanctions were deemed unnecessary, given the political and ethical implications of the diplomat's recent associations. The political storm ignited in June when Sooklal was photographed alongside former President and MKP leader Jacob Zuma, as well as notorious State Capture fugitive Ajay Gupta. The trio were spotted together at the Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali temple in Haridwar, India. The imagery provoked immediate public backlash, considering the multi-billion-rand corruption allegations and outstanding legal matters tied to the Gupta family's role in institutional State capture. Last month, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni issued a stern, open reprimand against Sooklal for hosting the controversial pair. However, the State's narrative shifted dramatically during a subsequent parliamentary portfolio committee meeting. Information emerged indicating that Sooklal may not have acted independently, but rather under direct written instructions issued by Dirco management. ActionSA says the public has a right to know the contents of those communication trails. ActionSA Parliamentary leader Athol Trollip said any friendly association between senior public officials and those implicated in State capture demands thorough scrutiny and decisive action. "It is therefore entirely reasonable to expect that public representatives entrusted with advancing South Africa's interests abroad should be held to the highest ethical standard," said Trollip. "Choosing not to act in these circumstances sends the wrong message and further erodes public confidence in the State's willingness to confront and eradicate the legacy of State Capture." The party said the newly formed Government of National Unity cannot credibly claim a commitment to clean governance and the rule of law while actively appearing to excuse conduct that normalises relations with State fugitives.

Amnesty International demands govt action on rising anti-migrant vigilantism Amnesty International South Africa has urged government to immediately stop vigilante groups from targeting migrants and businesses, citing a rise in unlawful, violent actions. Executive director Shenilla Mohamed warned that failure to take decisive action against a growing trend of vigilantism is encouraging further human rights violations. The organisation is demanding that police investigate and hold perpetrators accountable. The crisis intensified ahead of a June 30 deadline issued by the group March and March, which ordered undocumented migrants to leave South Africa. With the deadline passing, coordinated intimidation, harassment, and anti-migrant protests continue to disrupt communities, the organisation notes. Mohamed emphasised that government statements are no longer enough to deter these groups. "Authorities must move beyond statements of concern and demonstrate through effective investigations, prosecutions and accountability measures that no person or group is above the law," she said. Amnesty International cited the Immigration Act, which prohibits private citizens or groups from enforcing immigration laws. This means private individuals cannot demand identity documents, enter private property, or evict people from homes and businesses and only designated immigration officers and members of the South African Police Service hold legal enforcement authority. The organisation is calling for urgent interventions from State authorities, highlighting that allegations of police officers ignoring illegal acts or actively colluding with vigilante groups must face thorough criminal and disciplinary reviews. The organisation wants the State to protect the right of business owners to operate safely without harassment, while upholding the right to dignity, freedom, and security for every person living in South Africa. "Human dignity has no nationality and we cannot allow the unfettered violation of rights to continue," Mohamed said. She said where concerns exist about a person's immigration status, these must be addressed through lawful procedures that respect constitutional rights and human dignity. "Even where individuals may be found to be undocumented, they remain entitled to rights protected under the Constitution and international human rights law, including due process, dignity and protection from violence and abuse," she reminded. Amnesty International South Africa and other civil society organisations have repeatedly warned that inflammatory rhetoric, anti-migrant mobilisation and weak State responses risk fuelling discrimination, violence and further human rights violations.

Politicians laud voter registration drive with surge in registrations by youth, women Politicians have hailed the conclusion of the final voter registration weekend as a definitive reaffirmation of public faith in South Africa's democratic structures. The Independent Electoral Commission's final registration weekend concluded with 29-million citizens successfully registered on the national voters' roll. The ANC welcomed the voter turnout, viewing the high registration numbers as proof of the resilience of South Africa's democratic project. The party highlighted specific demographic trends from the final registration drive, noting the surge in youth registrations, citizens under the age of 39 accounted for 46% of all new registrations, while women represented 56% of the newly registered voter block. In a statement, the party remarked that these statistics validate its long-standing policy position that women and young people are "active agents" in building a capable developmental State rather than passive beneficiaries. Declaring full readiness for the upcoming November elections, the ANC announced that its upcoming campaign will centre on a rigorous programme of community mobilisation, candidate unveiling, and the launch of its Election Manifesto. The party's core campaign pillars will target fixing local government structural weaknesses, accelerating municipal service delivery, investing directly in human capital and transforming the local economy. In a statement, Parliamentary leadership, led by National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, noted that South Africa's "strong registration metrics" send a global message regarding the health of its democracy, particularly at a time when civic participation is facing global decline. Chairperson of the Select Committee on Security and Justice Jane Mananiso, echoed these sentiments, calling the registration growth a sign of a maturing democracy. However, she urged all eligible South Africans who have not yet registered, or who need to update their registration details, to do so before the voters' roll closes at midnight on Friday. Mananiso urged all remaining eligible citizens to use online platforms or local offices to register or update their address details. She stressed that while the current metrics are encouraging, a significant portion of the population remains unregistered, necessitating targeted, practical interventions to ensure complete electoral inclusion. Meanwhile, the IFP also lauded the registration outcome, focusing on the broader impact of the newly registered electorate. IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa revealed that 754 332 entirely new voters were added to the system during the recent registration drives. Hlengwa said the success of the registration weekends proves democracy is an active responsibility rather than a passive constitutional right. According to the IFP, this expanded voting bloc represents a critical step forward in allowing citizens to directly dictate and influence the governance, service quality, and future direction of their local municipalities.

SA's energy transition must deliver affordable power, community growth – Ramaphosa President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that South Africa's shift to clean energy must be an inclusive process that strengthens local communities and lowers the cost of electricity for everyday citizens. Writing in his weekly newsletter on Monday, Ramaphosa stated that it is the collective responsibility of government, business, labour, and civil society to ensure the energy transition delivers equitable benefits. "… most importantly, it must deliver affordable electricity for all, now and into the future." The President's address follows significant policy developments aimed at restructuring the nation's energy landscape. Last week, Cabinet approved for public comment the Revised Electricity Pricing Policy and the Draft Electricity Sector Market Transformation Position Paper. Additionally, Ramaphosa received a vital progress update regarding the establishment of a fully independent, State-owned transmission and market operator entity. This independent body is expected to form the backbone of a modernised, competitive domestic power market. The President pointed to the newly opened Ummbila Emoyeni facility in Mpumalanga as proof of the country's resilience and adaptability amid its historic energy crisis. The project's first phase officially entered commercial operation last week, featuring 25 wind turbines generating 155 MW of clean energy. The facility was developed by Seriti Green, a subsidiary of the local mining house Seriti Resources. The President highlighted that this project dispels the myth that green energy is solely funded by international players. "This is a demonstration that South Africa's clean energy investments are not only being driven from abroad, but also by domestic firms with the foresight to invest in their country's future," he remarked. The initial 155 MW of wind power will be wheeled directly through Eskom's national grid to supply Seriti's existing coal mining operations, effectively lowering the carbon footprint of the heavy industry sector. Looking ahead, the site is slated for massive expansion. Once fully completed, Ummbila Emoyeni will scale into a 900 MW hybrid energy cluster combining, wind generation, solar arrays and advanced battery storage systems. Once it reaches full operational capacity, it will officially become the largest hybrid renewable energy facility in South Africa. Ramaphosa said this project serves as an "invaluable contribution" to South Africa's sustainable economic future and long-term energy security. The President noted that the 2025 Integrated Resource Plan aims to achieve a diversified portfolio of energy sources that relies more on wind and solar, and a reduced share of coal, supported by gas, battery storage and nuclear power. He noted that while coal continues to dominate South Africa's energy mix, the growth of renewable energy is accelerating. Meanwhile, he said the installation of rooftop solar by households and businesses, has exceeded expectations. According to Statistics South Africa, there has been an 86% increase in households with solar panels over just a three-year period, totalling 675 000 households in 2025. The investment in clean energy technologies, which was accelerated by loadshedding in recent years, was enabled by far-reaching legislative and regulatory reforms. Ramaphosa said the removal of the self-generation licensing threshold and the revival of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme unlocked large-scale private investment in electricity generation. "Attracting clean energy investment supports our climate commitments while promoting inclusive growth and job creation," he added.

Petrol prices to decrease by 52c a litre, but diesel prices to increase by up to R1.38 a litre The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) has revealed that the price of Petrol 93 and Petrol 95 will decrease by 52c a litre from Wednesday, but the prices of diesel will increase by R1.23 and R1.38 a litre for diesel with a 0.005% and 0.05% sulphur content, respectively. The department notes that these changes are based on various factors, including a decrease in the average Brent crude oil price, from $86.53/bbl to $82.37/bbl, for the period under review. "The impact of renewed US/Iran tensions which caused the price to increase up to a $100 mark, was offset by the fact that the prices had already decreased significantly the previous month and the first half of this month due to the ceasefire memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, as well as lower global demand for crude oil," it points out. Further, the DMPR notes that the average international product prices of petrol decreased during the period under review, while the prices of diesel and illuminating paraffin increased due to supply shortages caused by Russia/Ukraine conflict, which resulted in diesel export restrictions by Russia. "The situation was compounded by the Middle East refineries that were operating below capacity. These factors led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices (BFP) of petrol by 6.08c a litre, and higher contributions to the BFP of diesel and illuminating paraffin by 182.62c a litre (c/l) and 143.32c a litre, respectively," the department points out. Meanwhile, the rand depreciated slightly, on average, against the dollar, from R16.34 to R16.46, during the period under review. This led to higher contributions to the BFP of petrol, diesel and Illuminating Paraffin by 6.37c, 8.14c and 7.89c a litre, respectively. Further, the DMPR notes that the cumulative slate amounted to a negative balance of R7.42-billion for petrol and diesel at the end of June. In line with the provisions of the Self-Adjusting Slate Levy Mechanism, the slate levy of 61.38c a litre will be implemented in the price structures of petrol and diesel with effect from August 5. The Slate Levy has decreased by 52.56c a litre, from R1.14 a litre.

IEC shifts focus to election day as it records over 700 000 new voters The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has officially shifted its full attention to final election day preparations following what it describes as a successful conclusion of the final voter registration weekend. Over the course of Saturday and Sunday, the commission recorded a massive 1.7-million voter interactions through its 23 699 registration stations and online portal. With the registration weekends wrapped up, the country now moves closer to the highly anticipated local government elections scheduled for November 4. For eligible citizens who missed the physical registration window, the IEC is keeping the online registration portal open until the official proclamation on Friday. To make the process even easier, Mamabolo announced a brand-new digital feature: voter registration is now officially available via WhatsApp, offering a highly accessible, data-friendly modality for last-minute registrations. IEC Chief Executive Officer Sy Mamabolo revealed that the two 2026 registration weekends added 754 332 new voters to the national roll. Out of the last weekend's 1.7-million transactions, 291 806 (16%) were first-time voters registering for the first time. The vast majority, about 1 502 245 citizens, or 84% used the opportunity to inspect and update their existing registration details. Mamabolo emphasised the strict rules governing local government polls, noting, "This is in line with the message that a voter must register and vote in the voting district within the ward where they reside. In local government elections, there is no provision to vote outside of the voting station of registration." KwaZulu-Natal led the country with 427 592 total registration transactions, Gauteng with 314 856 transactions and Eastern Cape with 313 797 transactions. Mamabolo said the final registration weekend maintained the long-standing trend of higher female political participation, with 1 005 790 female voter interaction (56% of total activity), male with 788 261 interactions (44% of total activity) and among the newly registered voters, exactly 50% were female. The youth showed up in significant numbers, with citizens aged 16 to 29 accounting for 485 757 (26%) of the total weekend transactions. Crucially, 46% of all brand-new registrations came from voters under the age of 29. KwaZulu-Natal again led youth registrations with 137 046, followed by the Eastern Cape with 79 417 and Gauteng with 78 405. Mamabolo explained that physical stations remained the preferred choice, the commission recorded 1 555 318 station-based applications transactions, led by KwaZulu-Natal with 386 258. While the online Portal recorded 238 733 transactions. He said the online portal saw its highest usage in highly urbanised provinces, led by Gauteng with 86 492, KwaZulu-Natal with 41 334 and the Western Cape with 33 783. The combined effort of the registration drives in June and August 2026 resulted in a staggering 4.66-million voter interactions. He said this marks a massive increase from the 1.7-million recorded ahead of the 2021 local government elections, which suffered under a compressed timetable owing to Covid-19. Mamabolo announced that 2.1-million new voters have been added to the voters' roll since the 2024 general elections, noting that the substantial growth comes despite the IEC removing about 884 000 deceased voters from the system, averaging a mortality rate of about 34 000 people per month. The formal election timetable will officially kick off once the election is proclaimed on Friday. Mamabolo emphasised that this proclamation will lock in dates for critical milestones, including candidate nominations, certification of the final voters' roll, and logistical setups leading to November 4. The IEC noted strong early engagement with its Online Candidate Nomination System, which is already being used by over 93 independent candidates and 87 political parties.

Operation Vulindlela reports broader sweep, though progress uneven in Q1 National Treasury on Friday highlighted sustained structural reforms aimed at reviving the country's network industries, fixing local governance, and building a highly competitive investment environment. Briefing the media on the first-quarter progress report for Operation Vulindlela, Treasury said despite navigating a highly volatile global economic environment, the initiative is successfully laying the groundwork for inclusive economic growth, reducing systemic constraints, and scaling up private sector participation. Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery. Treasury acknowledged that while progress across certain sectors remains uneven and slowed by institutional complexities, the broader strategy is entering a "mature phase". The State's focus is actively shifting from legislative finalisation to accelerating delivery, eliminating administrative bottlenecks, and securing tangible infrastructure improvements, Treasury said. KEY SECTORAL REFORMS The overhaul of South Africa's power sector continues to gather pace in establishing a competitive electricity market. The first-quarter progress report shows that 60% of sector reform has been delayed but that work continues. In that vein, the Eskom Restructuring Task Team successfully concluded the initial phase of its mandate to oversee the creation of a fully independent, State-owned transmission company. Government is aggressively driving institutional shifts to boost private sector participation across rail and port networks, with Treasury noting the publication of the latest Network Statement to grant multiple private operators access to the freight rail network and the conclusion of formal Rail Access Agreements with 11 independent train operating companies. Operation Vulindlela notes that 60% of reform progress in this sector is on track. It also pointed to the finalisation of the draft National Rail Bill alongside an implementation strategy to corporatise the Transnet National Ports Authority. Reforms are targeting stricter regulation, institutional frameworks, and accelerated infrastructure spending. Treasury noted the establishment of the National Water Crisis Committee, the rollout of the National Water Action Plan and the operationalisation of the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency. Progress in this sector is 50% on track, 25% of work is completed and 25% of it delayed but continuing. It highlighted the pipeline expansion for new projects managed through the Water Partnerships Office and the newly formed Infrastructure Finance and Implementation Support Agency. To draw global talent, tourism, and foreign direct investment, the Department of Home Affairs is rapidly modernising its systems, including scaling the Electronic Travel Authorisation system to all eligible nations, multiple visa streams and the launch of Phase II of the Trusted Employer Scheme. Reform in this sector is 50% completed with some work required and 50% is in progress on track for completion. Treasury also pointed to the implementation of new visa regimes tailored for creative industries, tourism, and high-value business events and the advanced public-private partnerships to redevelop core land ports of entry for faster cross-border trade. Treasury is focusing heavily on municipal financial sustainability and public spatial integration, noting that the Metro Trading Services Reform Programme is actively being deployed across a first cohort of metropolitan areas to improve the governance of municipal utilities. Local government is tracking 50% of reform set for completion with 50% of work delayed but in progress. There are advancements on the White Paper on Local Government, the Municipal Finance Management Act Amendment Bill, and preparations to expand the Public Service Comm...

DA challenges Parly Secretary's 'irregular appointment', salary increase The DA will file court papers in the Western Cape High Court to have the appointment and salary of Secretary to Parliament Xolile George declared unlawful and set aside. This legal move targets what the party says is an irregular 70% pay hike that saw George's salary surge from R2.6-million to R4.4-million within months of taking office. The party contends that reversing the decision is vital to preserving institutional accountability and fiscal transparency in the legislative arm of government. According to DA Parliamentary leader George Michalakis, the core of the legal challenge rests on misrepresentation by former presiding officers. The DA alleges that the former Speaker of the National Assembly Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, and National Council of Provinces chairperson Amos Masondo, deliberately misled members of Parliament. The party claims they reportedly induced lawmakers to approve George's appointment based on a substantially lower remuneration package. The DA pointed out that in January 2023, Mapisa-Nqakula and Masondo instructed that George's salary scale be elevated to R4 428 315, backdated to June 2022. The salary was updated despite a formal parliamentary review that strictly capped the Secretary to Parliament's remuneration at R2.6-million to curb an unsustainable wage bill. Michalakis said George was neither among the 81 original applicants nor the 9 shortlisted candidates who applied during the second round of advertisements locked at the lower rate. He highlighted that following George's assumption of office in June 2022, he allegedly worked without a formal employment contract until September 2022. The High Court application follows an escalation of oversight measures by the party. The DA has already submitted formal affidavits to President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Public Protector.

Goldman sees more South Africa rating upgrades on strong revenue South Africa's revenue outperformance puts the country on course for further credit-ratings upgrades over the next year, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. said. National Treasury data for June shows corporate tax collections grew about 5.5% to R385-billion on a semi-annualised basis, boosted largely by mining-industry export profits. The figure, released this week, was well above the R345-billion achieved in the 2025-26 fiscal year as well as the R364-billion projected in the February budget for 2026-27. "From a sovereign credit rating perspective, the continued strength in these fiscal data reinforce our expectation that both Moody's and S&P will upgrade their credit ratings over the next year," Andrew Matheny, an economist at Goldman Sachs, said in a note. Moody's Ratings currently pegs South Africa at Ba2, which it maintained in May while upgrading its outlook to positive from stable. The company cited an improved fiscal position, the authorities' commitment to stabilising state finances and progress in implementing economic reforms. S&P Global Ratings in November raised South Africa's rating — the country's first upgrade in two decades — for the same reasons. A further increase would lift its rating for the country to BB+ from BB and support South African fixed-income instruments "where in our view current pricing does not reflect expectations for a credit rating upgrade," Matheny said. South Africa, the continent's biggest economy, has made significant progress in stabilising its public finances, with improving fiscal metrics reinforcing confidence in the government's consolidation efforts. The country recorded a better-than-expected primary budget surplus of 1.1% of gross domestic product in the year through March, surpassing the National Treasury's February forecast of 0.9%.

Joburg's water, sanitation infrastructure investment needs to double Despite the magnitude of the City of Johannesburg's (CoJ's) existing sewer and water network, infrastructure will need to double over the next ten years to meet the surge in demand, delegates heard at the Symposium on the Future of Water-Efficient Sanitation on Thursday. The two-day symposium is being hosted by the CoJ, together with the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), the South Africa Local Government Association, the Water Partnerships Office, the Water Research Commission and Planact. Amid the expected population surge in the next ten years from 5.8-million to seven-million and subsequent rising demand, the city requires R3-billion a year to invest in bulk infrastructure and maintenance, yet the city can only afford R1-billion, said CoJ Mayor Councillor Dada Morero. Highlighting the magnitude of the challenge, he said that the CoJ currently had a sewer network spanning more than 12 000 km, six wastewater treatment plants and 38 pumpstations. The city has been buckling under the pressure to maintain or replace the existing, aging infrastructure. "We do not have the resources. We are unable to provide proper reticulation," he warned, pointing out that the aging infrastructure, in some cases, required full replacement. Despite the urgent need to invest in bulk infrastructure and invest in infrastructure maintenance, the city is unable to make timeous interventions with own resources and money. "One of the only ways we can intervene is to go and raise money in the capital market," Morero said, commenting, however, that he believed that the CoJ was making inroads to ring-fencing revenue and raising capital. RING-FENCING REVENUE The city has started partially ring-fencing Joburg Water's revenue with a 70:30 split. The city retains 30% to support the nonrevenue departments in the city. The ring-fencing of revenue is part of the conditions of an imminent R12-billion to R13-billion deal with the DBSA to raise the capital to invest into Johannesburg's infrastructure needs. The signing of the deal, which will conclude in due course, also means that the city has a responsibility to ensure that it protects its revenue, and proves that it is able to maintain revenue collections at levels that will ensure the city can service the debt and maintain the infrastructure moving forward. "There is no point in deploying R13-billion, but you are not deploying sufficient resources to maintain that infrastructure," he continued. "We did very well in 2025/26, when, for the first time, we were able to push the maintenance budget of the city from 4% to about 7%, which was a significant jump." The CoJ is aiming to raise this to 8% in the current financial year, with an ambition to raise it further next year to about 9%, surpassing the national average and the requirements by National Treasury on infrastructure maintenance. While investment is critical, there is also a need for innovation and better technology. "We do not just need money, we need innovative technologies because we do not have the money to do a full-scale reticulation," Morero pointed out. Working together with management and finance teams, he believes that the CoJ is making the necessary inroads to change the narrative in Johannesburg. "It can't be that Johannesburg continues to experience more than 10 000 [water pipe] bursts on a monthly basis. It cannot. We therefore have to invest, put in the right money, and chase the technology."