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ANC

Former Newcastle Mayor Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle While Jogging

by Rachel Morgan News Editor July 4, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba, a 44-year-old former Newcastle mayor and senior African National Congress (ANC) leader, died on Saturday morning after being struck by a vehicle while jogging in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. The ANC has confirmed his passing, describing the loss as a significant blow to the liberation movement and the medical community.

Did You Know? Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba maintained a dual career, balancing his work as a medical doctor with a series of high-level political roles, including MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, and MEC for Public Works and Human Settlements.

Political and Professional Background

At the time of his death, Dr. Mahlaba served as the chairperson of committees in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) legislature. His career was marked by various leadership positions within the ANC, including serving as a member of the party’s Provincial Task Team. ANC KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Sifiso Sonjica characterized Mahlaba as a “battle-tested” servant who earned respect from both political allies and opponents.

The party noted that Mahlaba’s professional life was defined by a commitment to both clinical practice and public governance. According to Sonjica, Mahlaba viewed his medical training as a tool to heal both the physical ailments of individuals and the broader socio-economic challenges facing his community. His death leaves a vacancy in the provincial legislature and creates a period of mourning for the party leadership.

Expert Insight: The Impact of a Sudden Leadership Loss

The sudden death of a seasoned legislator like Dr. Mahlaba creates a structural vacuum within the KZN provincial legislature. As the ANC navigates this transition, the party will likely focus on maintaining continuity in the committees Mahlaba previously chaired while simultaneously managing the public and internal party response to the loss of a prominent figure.

What Happens Next

The ANC has requested that the public and media respect the privacy of Dr. Mahlaba’s wife, Dr. Busi Mahlaba, and their children during this period of grief. As the party processes the loss, official tributes and memorial arrangements are expected to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Dr. Ntuthuko Mahlaba die?
Dr. Mahlaba died after being struck by a vehicle while he was jogging in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday morning.

What were Dr. Mahlaba’s most recent roles?
He was the chairperson of committees in the KZN legislature and a member of the ANC’s Provincial Task Team.

Has the ANC released a statement regarding his passing?
Yes, ANC KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Sifiso Sonjica confirmed the death and described it as a “sudden and tragic” loss for the liberation movement.

How will the loss of such an experienced leader influence the current legislative agenda in KwaZulu-Natal?

July 4, 2026 0 comments

News

ANC Demands Probe Into Steenhuisen’s DA Allegations

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 29, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The African National Congress (ANC) has formally requested an independent investigation into allegations of state capture and unethical lobbying involving senior Democratic Alliance (DA) figures. These claims, originating from a recent interview with John Steenhuisen, implicate Tony Leon, Geordin Hill-Lewis, and the public relations firm Resolve Communications, associated with Paul Boughey.

The allegations of state capture

According to the ANC, the allegations suggest an attempt to “capture the state” through private lobbying efforts. Steenhuisen reportedly detailed how these individuals sought to influence government policy for private interests, specifically citing the state’s management of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. The ANC claims that DA ministers were approached regarding these activities, which allegedly contributed to internal tensions within the cabinet.

Did You Know? The allegations brought forward by John Steenhuisen involve Resolve Communications, a firm associated with Paul Boughey, and point to lobbying efforts directed at government officials during the foot-and-mouth disease crisis.

Why the ANC is calling for an investigation

Luthuli House maintains that these claims require rigorous scrutiny to determine if any laws, ethical obligations, or governance standards were violated. Acting ANC national spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli stated that the party believes no political entity should be insulated from accountability when credible allegations emerge. The ANC emphasized that because these claims come from a former DA leader and a senior public representative, they carry significant weight regarding the integrity of democratic institutions.

Minister John Steenhuisen on government’s coordinated response to the US reciprocal tariffs.

Expert Insight: From a governance perspective, the involvement of a former party leader making allegations against his own organization’s leadership creates a unique accountability crisis. The call for an independent probe serves as a strategic maneuver for the ANC to demand the same level of institutional transparency from the DA that the opposition has historically demanded of the government.

What happens next

The ANC’s demand for an independent investigation marks the beginning of a potential period of heightened scrutiny for the DA’s internal and external lobbying practices. If an investigation is launched, it could establish whether private interests improperly influenced government decisions, such as those concerning agricultural health crises. The outcome of such a probe may determine the future of public confidence in the involved parties and could force a formal review of ethical guidelines regarding how political figures interact with private PR firms and lobbyists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is accused of being involved in the alleged lobbying?
The allegations target Tony Leon, Geordin Hill-Lewis, and Paul Boughey, specifically through their PR company, Resolve Communications.

What specific government policy was reportedly targeted?
The allegations include claims of lobbying activities related to the government’s response to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

Why does the ANC believe an investigation is necessary?
The ANC argues that the claims are “perturbing” and “damning,” and that they raise serious questions about ethical governance and the integrity of democratic institutions, necessitating a transparent, impartial inquiry.

Do you believe that political parties should be held to the same standard of independent investigation when internal allegations of lobbying arise?

June 29, 2026 0 comments

News

Morero Removed from ANC Task Team Amid Internal Tensions

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 14, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has been removed as the head of the ANC Gauteng local government intervention team following complaints regarding his appointment. According to a June 9 letter from Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Morero will instead lead a unit responsible for legislature and governance within the provincial task team.

Why was Dada Morero removed from the intervention team?

The removal follows a dispute at Luthuli House concerning whether a sitting mayor should lead a team tasked with holding other ANC mayors accountable. According to those close to the dispute, Gauteng leaders questioned Morero’s appointment because he appeared to have been added to both the provincial working committee (PWC) and the intervention team without approval from the National Working Committee (NWC).

A list approved by national officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa and the NWC, reportedly identified former education MEC Matome Chiloane as the head of the local intervention team. This version of the list differed from the one released by Mbalula, according to reports seen by the Sunday Times.

Did You Know? Dada Morero was originally appointed as the convenor of the local government intervention team on June 1.

How did the appointment process create tension within the ANC?

Internal friction arose when Secretary-General Mbalula allegedly created an appointment list unilaterally. A senior ANC leader claimed that while the NWC had agreed on specific names, Mbalula acted independently after the meeting.

“He [Mbalula] created that list himself,” said a senior ANC leader. “We went to the NWC, read out the names, and the NWC agreed. And then we left the meeting [and] he went to do his shenanigans. This is what is sowing tensions in Gauteng, but it’s also going to create a lot of mistrust in the NWC.”

The Sunday Times reported that the original list, compiled by second deputy secretary-general Maropene Ramokgopa and NEC member Mduduzi Manana, did not include Morero in the PWC. Another senior insider stated that while Morero and Jacob Khawe were included in the provincial task team (PTT), Morero was not originally assigned the responsibility of leading the intervention team.

Expert Insight: The discrepancy between the NWC-approved list and the version released by the Secretary-General suggests a potential breakdown in centralized party discipline. This internal friction could impact the effectiveness of the provincial task team’s oversight capabilities.

What is the background of the dispute involving Fikile Mbalula?

The complaints regarding Morero are part of a series of decisions by Mbalula that have drawn criticism from party leadership. In January, Mbalula called for police to investigate the outcome of the December ANC Johannesburg conference, where Morero lost the regional leadership to Loyiso Masuku.

News of the Day: ANC JHB moves to recall Dada Morero

In February, Mbalula announced that a fraud case had been opened after ballot papers from that conference were found at a house belonging to an elections agency. Party leaders, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Maropene Ramokgopa, and Nomvula Mokonyane, reportedly expressed displeasure with these actions, stating they were not in keeping with ANC norms.

What could happen next for the Gauteng provincial task team?

The structure of the Gauteng provincial task team may undergo further changes. ANC media liaison officer Mothusi Shupinyane ka Ndaba stated that the NWC list is still subject to refinement to ensure adherence to good governance and ethics during the party’s renewal process.

Regarding the recent leadership swap, Shupinyane ka Ndaba said the aim was to ensure “a deployee is not accountable to himself.” Morero has stated that, from his perspective, the matter has been resolved now that he has been moved to the legislature and governance unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new convenor of the local government intervention team?
Nathi Congwane has been appointed as the new convenor of the intervention team.

What is Dada Morero’s new role in the ANC?
Morero will now lead the unit responsible for legislature and governance within the ANC Gauteng provincial task team.

Why were there complaints about Morero’s initial appointment?
Gauteng leaders raised concerns that a mayor should not be responsible for a team that holds other mayors to account, and that his appointment lacked NWC approval.

How should the ANC balance regional leadership appointments with the need for independent oversight?

June 14, 2026 0 comments

News

EFF and ATM Join Forces to Block Ramaphosa Impeachment Bid

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 14, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the African Transformation Movement (ATM) have confirmed their intention to oppose President Cyril Ramaphosa’s urgent application to interdict Parliament from proceeding with an impeachment inquiry. Ramaphosa filed the papers in the Western Cape High Court on Friday, seeking to halt the process until his separate review application regarding the Section 89 Independent Panel report is finalized.

Opposition to the Interdict

Political parties and legal analysts are lining up against the President’s request. The EFF stated that the application is a move to “delay accountability,” while spokesperson Sinawo Thambo affirmed the party would continue to defend the Constitutional Court’s directive that Parliament must establish an impeachment committee. Asherson Attorneys, representing the ATM, indicated they would argue that the application lacks genuine urgency and suggested that any urgency was “self-created.” ActionSA’s Lerato Ngobeni also rejected the bid, maintaining that the committee’s work must continue unless a court orders otherwise.

Did You Know? The Impeachment Committee, chaired by Makashule Gana, has scheduled its next meeting for June 24, a date that remains central to the President’s argument that hearings could begin before the court rules on his review application.

The President’s Legal Argument

In his court filings, President Ramaphosa argued that he faces “irreparable harm” if the impeachment inquiry proceeds while the validity of the Independent Panel report remains under legal review. He stated that his goal is not to prevent Parliament from exercising its constitutional powers, but to clarify whether those powers should be exercised while the legal basis for the process—the panel report—is being challenged. He noted that he requested a stay of proceedings from Speaker Thoko Didiza and Committee Chair Makashule Gana, but both declined, citing the committee’s independent authority to manage its own agenda.

Expert Insight: This legal maneuver highlights a fundamental tension between executive accountability and parliamentary autonomy. While the President seeks to pause proceedings to protect his position against a report he deems invalid, legal analysts like Modidima Maanya point out that Parliament is under no legal obligation to halt its work simply because a report is under review. The burden rests on the President to prove to the court that the risk of harm outweighs the legislative body’s duty to hold him accountable.

What Happens Next

The court will now need to determine whether to grant the interim relief requested by the President. If the interdict is denied, the Impeachment Committee is expected to proceed with its work as directed by the Constitutional Court. If granted, the inquiry would be paused for an indefinite period while the review application is heard. Political analyst Sandile Swana noted that Parliament is currently guided by the Constitutional Court’s instruction to conduct the inquiry, and the panel report remains in effect until a court rules otherwise.

South Africa's highest court revives impeachment proceedings against Ramaphosa • FRANCE 24 English

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does President Ramaphosa want to interdict the impeachment inquiry?
He argues that he will suffer “irreparable harm” if the inquiry proceeds based on an Independent Panel report that he is currently challenging in court.

How has Parliament responded to the request to stay the proceedings?
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and the committee’s legal team informed the President that the committee determines its own agenda and that they would not accede to his request to halt preparations.

What is the position of the political parties involved?
The EFF, ATM, and ActionSA have all indicated they will oppose the interdict, arguing that Parliament must fulfill its constitutional duty to hold the President accountable.

How do you believe the balance between executive legal rights and parliamentary oversight should be maintained in this case?

June 14, 2026 0 comments

News

Emfuleni: ANC Criticized for Recycling Ineffective Leaders

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 10, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Hassan Mako was elected mayor of the Emfuleni Local Municipality during a council sitting in Vanderbijlpark on Wednesday. His appointment follows the removal of former mayor Sipho Radebe due to service-delivery failures, a move the Democratic Alliance (DA) has criticized, citing Mako’s previous role as the municipality’s MMC for Finance.

Criticism of the Mayoral Appointment

The DA has labeled the appointment of Mako as shocking, arguing that he shares responsibility for the municipality’s current financial state. According to DA candidate Kingsol Chabalala, Mako’s tenure as MMC for Finance saw little progress in addressing the municipality’s significant debts to Eskom and Rand Water. Chabalala noted that these unpaid liabilities have led to repeated legal actions, including the attachment of municipal bank accounts by utility providers.

View this post on Instagram about Hassan Mako, Eskom and Rand Water

From Instagram — related to Hassan Mako, Eskom and Rand Water

Did You Know? Hassan Mako’s political background includes experience as a ward councillor for Ward 37 and a history of leadership roles within the ANC Youth League, where he served as branch secretary and zonal chairperson.

The ANC’s Stance on Leadership

The African National Congress (ANC) maintains that Mako is the appropriate candidate to lead the municipality. Mzi Khumalo, spokesperson for the ANC’s Gauteng Provincial Task Team, stated that the decision followed a rigorous selection process, including interviews conducted by the party’s National Office Bearers. The party emphasized Mako’s background as a community development worker and his experience within the Sedibeng region as key qualifications for the mayoral role.

#POWERDrive | Hassan Mako, MMC Finance and Revenue in Emfuleni Local Municipality

Expert Insight: The tension between the ANC and the DA in Emfuleni highlights a broader political trend: the erosion of voter loyalty based on historical liberation struggle credentials. As institutional corruption and failing infrastructure persist, the political longevity of the incumbent party appears increasingly tied to its ability to deliver basic services rather than past narratives.

Political Implications and Future Elections

Mako is set to contest the upcoming local government elections as the ANC’s mayoral candidate, though analysts suggest the party may face significant electoral challenges. Political analyst Ntsikelelo Breakfast noted that the ANC’s brand has been damaged by institutionalized corruption and persistent service-delivery failures. According to Breakfast, the municipality’s electoral trajectory could trend downwards, particularly as a younger demographic of voters becomes increasingly impatient with the failure to honor the social contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the former mayor, Sipho Radebe, removed from office?
Radebe was removed from his position due to service-delivery failures within the Emfuleni Local Municipality.

What concerns has the DA raised regarding Hassan Mako?
The DA alleges that as the former MMC for Finance, Mako failed to restore financial stability or reduce the municipality’s substantial debts to Eskom and Rand Water.

How did the ANC select Hassan Mako as its candidate?
The ANC stated the appointment followed a process of rigorous interviews by the party’s National Office Bearers after receiving three nominations from the Sedibeng Regional Executive Committee.

How do you believe the shift in voter demographics will impact the upcoming local government elections in Emfuleni?

June 10, 2026 0 comments

News

Cyril Ramaphosa’s Arrest: It’s a Matter of When, Says Nqakula

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 9, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Former Minister of Safety and Security Charles Nqakula has publicly predicted that President Cyril Ramaphosa will face arrest within months regarding the Phala Phala scandal. According to Nqakula, the investigation into the 2020 theft of foreign currency from the President’s Limpopo game farm has produced “overwhelming” evidence that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is currently processing.

The Basis for the Arrest Prediction

Nqakula, a veteran African National Congress (ANC) stalwart, stated during an interview on the African Renaissance Network that the legal exposure facing the President is inevitable. He characterized the evidence as a collection of “endless” alleged crimes, including the failure to declare large sums of foreign currency to the South African Reserve Bank and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

The former minister also cited allegations that police were used illegally to investigate the robbery, which was reportedly never officially reported, and that individuals were kidnapped and transported across the border to Namibia. Nqakula argued that these findings provide sufficient grounds for the NPA to act, despite the passage of nearly two years since the incident became public.

Did You Know?
The Phala Phala investigation was triggered by a criminal complaint filed in June 2022 by former State Security Agency director-general Arthur Fraser, who alleged that President Ramaphosa concealed the theft of millions of dollars from his game farm.

Why Investigations Take Time

Responding to concerns regarding the slow pace of the prosecution, Nqakula maintained that investigators are being methodical to ensure their case is “airtight.” He noted that cases involving a sitting president carry high professional stakes for law enforcement officers, who must “dot the i’s and cross the t’s” to avoid career-ending failures.

Nqakula drew on his historical experience, referencing a 1992 exchange with a senior police intelligence official who emphasized that professional officers prioritize their own legal standing and pensions over political loyalty. He suggested that contemporary police officers are similarly motivated by self-preservation and are unlikely to risk jail time to protect a politician if the evidence of wrongdoing is clear.

Expert Insight:
The significance of Nqakula’s assessment lies in his background as a former Minister of Safety and Security. His commentary suggests a shift in how political allies view the institutional independence of the NPA. While the President survived a December 2022 impeachment vote in the National Assembly, the ongoing legal pressure highlights the persistent tension between executive power and the criminal justice system’s investigative mandate.

Political and Legal Pressure

Beyond the legal mechanics, Nqakula highlighted a convergence of factors that he believes are narrowing the President’s options. He pointed to rising public anger, pressure from opposition parties, and internal divisions within the ANC as evidence that the political environment is becoming increasingly difficult for the President.

Ramaphosa will be ARRESTED says Charles Nqakula for something other than Phala Phala (ALLEGEDLY)

Nqakula stated that if he were acting as legal counsel for the President, he would advise him to prepare for a formal legal challenge. He concluded that the law is moving toward a resolution, and that the President faces a situation where he has limited room to maneuver.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Phala Phala scandal?
The scandal involves the 2020 theft of undisclosed foreign currency from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala Wildlife game farm, and subsequent allegations that the incident was covered up.

Has the President faced previous legal challenges regarding this?
Yes. A Section 89 parliamentary panel previously found prima facie evidence that the President violated the Constitution, though he survived an impeachment vote in the National Assembly in December 2022.

Why does Nqakula believe an arrest is imminent?
Nqakula points to the “sheer weight” of documented evidence and argues that the NPA cannot delay action indefinitely, as police officers are increasingly concerned about their own professional futures and potential liability.

Do you believe the legal process regarding the Phala Phala case is moving at an appropriate speed given the complexity of the allegations?

June 9, 2026 0 comments

Business

ANC Backs Minister Meth in Pick n Pay Retrenchment Crisis

by Chief Editor June 7, 2026

written by Chief Editor

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has successfully intervened in a major retrenchment dispute at retail giant Pick n Pay, preventing the immediate loss of more than 22,000 jobs. Following a six-hour negotiation session, the company agreed to pause its Section 189 restructuring process and return to collective bargaining with labor unions.

How did the government intervene in the Pick n Pay dispute?

Minister Nomakhosazana Meth convened a high-level negotiation session to address the standoff between Pick n Pay and labor unions, including the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union and the Congress of South African Trade Unions. According to the ANC Parliamentary Study Group on Employment and Labour, this six-hour meeting steered all parties toward a consensus to temporarily halt the retrenchment process that began in May 2026.

View this post on Instagram about Parliamentary Study Group, Minister Nomakhosazana Meth

From Instagram — related to Parliamentary Study Group, Minister Nomakhosazana Meth

Did you know?
The dispute originated from a Section 189 notice issued in May 2026, where the retailer proposed changes to Sunday pay, weekend shift requirements, and overall scheduling flexibility to restore profitability.

What are the primary concerns regarding retail restructuring?

The core of the conflict lies in the tension between corporate operational efficiency and worker job security. Pick n Pay argued that its proposed changes to labor costs were necessary for the company’s financial health. Conversely, labor formations expressed strong opposition, warning of potential industrial action due to the sheer scale of the 22,000 jobs placed at risk. The ANC Study Group noted that these restructuring measures raised significant concerns over fair labor practices.

Labour Minister intervenes in Pick n Pay retrenchment crisis

Why is social dialogue essential for labor stability?

The resolution of this dispute is being framed as a model for future labor relations in South Africa. The ANC Parliamentary Study Group described the intervention as a “significant step” that highlights the value of social dialogue in resolving complex disputes. By moving the process from the threat of mass retrenchment to a structured timeline of collective bargaining, the intervention set a precedent for how government can mediate between corporate interests and the workforce.

Pro tip:
When facing large-scale restructuring, parties can utilize the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) to escalate engagement and ensure that negotiations remain transparent and constructive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggered the Pick n Pay labor dispute?
The dispute was triggered by a Section 189 restructuring notice issued in May 2026, which proposed changes to Sunday pay and shift scheduling to reduce labor costs.
Are the retrenchments permanently cancelled?
No. The parties have agreed to a temporary halt in retrenchments to pursue negotiated outcomes through collective bargaining.
Which unions were involved in the negotiations?
The South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union and the Congress of South African Trade Unions were key participants in the high-level engagement.

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June 7, 2026 0 comments

News

ANCYL Issues Ultimatum to Mayor Ahead of No-Confidence Vote

by Rachel Morgan News Editor May 23, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Greater Tzaneen local municipality mayor Gerson Molapisane is facing increasing pressure to step down, as the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in the Norman Mashabane region has formally joined calls for his resignation. This development comes just two weeks after both the Limpopo provincial ANC leadership and the regional party structure initiated similar demands.

The conflict centers on an ANC resolution for the mayor to vacate his office, which the party alleges is due to his failure to bankroll party events. Despite visits from provincial leadership, including a recent appearance by ANC provincial secretary Vhamusanda Reuben Madadzhe at a special council sitting, Molapisane has maintained his position. He asserts that his appointment was made solely by the party’s national leadership at Luthuli House.

Did You Know?
The mayor contends that he holds his position through an appointment by the ANC national leadership at Luthuli House, rather than regional or provincial structures, which has led to his continued defiance of local redeployment orders.

A Deepening Political Rift

The ANCYL in the Norman Mashabane region has characterized the mayor’s refusal to step down as “backward” and “shameful.” Regional spokesperson Thabo Malatji stated that the mayor’s actions represent a “direct attack on the principle of democratic centralism.”

“The ANC Youth League views this act as a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon the mayor by the movement,” Malatji said. He further warned that the mayor must submit to the organization’s decision or face disciplinary action, arguing that rejecting redeployment is equivalent to rejecting the party itself.

Expert Insight:
The situation in Greater Tzaneen highlights the friction between local government autonomy and the internal disciplinary mechanisms of a political party. When a leader cites a national mandate to resist regional or provincial directives, it creates a governance deadlock that often results in stalled service delivery and internal institutional instability.

Allegations and Next Steps

While the party leadership pursues his removal, allies of Mayor Molapisane argue that the resignation demands are a “witch-hunt.” According to an associate who requested anonymity, the mayor is being targeted because he refused to use municipal funds for party purposes, stating he “hates corruption with precision and distinction.”

GTM Mayor Gerson Molapisane handed over rehabilitated Streets Tzaneen and Nkowankowa

The political stalemate is expected to reach a critical point soon. A previous motion of no confidence was ruled unprocedural, but a new attempt is likely to be heard at the next council sitting, scheduled for 29 May. ANC Limpopo spokesperson Tonny Rachoene confirmed that the provincial leadership is working to resolve the matter and has appealed for calm as these processes unfold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the ANC calling for Mayor Molapisane’s resignation?
The provincial ANC leadership passed a resolution for the mayor to vacate office, alleging that he failed to bankroll ANC events.

What is the position of the ANC Youth League in this matter?
The ANCYL in the Norman Mashabane region has labeled the mayor’s conduct as “backward” and “shameful,” claiming his refusal to be redeployed undermines party discipline and democratic centralism.

What is the next step for the municipality?
A motion of no confidence is expected to be heard at the next council sitting, which is set for 29 May.

How do you believe local municipalities should balance national party mandates with the needs of their local constituents?

May 23, 2026 0 comments

News

ANC says Ramaphosa’s Tolashe removal shows commitment to ethical governance

by Rachel Morgan News Editor May 15, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

President Cyril Ramaphosa has removed Sisisi Tolashe from her position as Minister of Social Development. The decision has prompted a widespread political response, with parties across the spectrum describing the move as a necessary step amid growing public pressure and mounting allegations.

ANC Praises Commitment to Ethics

The African National Congress (ANC) has praised the intervention, framing it as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to ethical governance. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu stated the party “welcomes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to remove Comrade Sisisi Tolashe as Minister of Social Development in line with his constitutional responsibilities and commitment to ethical governance.”

View this post on Instagram about Department of Social Development, President Cyril Ramaphosa

From Instagram — related to Department of Social Development, President Cyril Ramaphosa

To maintain stability, Sindisiwe Chikunga has been appointed as the acting minister. The governing party noted that this appointment would ensure “continuity, stability and uninterrupted service delivery in this critical portfolio.”

Bhengu further asserted that the move shows the seriousness with which the ANC and the President approach the fight against corruption, maladministration, and ethical lapses. The party argued that anti-corruption efforts have “moved beyond rhetoric into concrete action” through accountability measures and Special Investigating Unit proclamations.

Did You Know? RISE Mzansi highlighted that the Department of Social Development manages nearly R300 billion in public funds.

Opposition Parties Claim Pressure Forced Action

While opposition parties also welcomed the removal, several suggested the President only acted after sustained political and public pressure. Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis stated the DA welcomes the firing “following the relentless pressure applied by the DA for her removal from Cabinet.”

Hill-Lewis described Tolashe’s position as “untenable” and urged the President to urgently appoint a permanent replacement. He emphasized that South Africans deserve a credible minister who can lead the department with integrity and a focus on serving vulnerable people.

Similarly, Freedom Front Plus MP Philip van Staden argued that the President had “no choice” but to dismiss Tolashe as allegations intensified. Van Staden cited claims regarding the “improper use of vehicles donated by the Chinese Embassy,” the alleged employment of a state official as a private caregiver, and irregular appointments within the department.

Expert Insight: This dismissal reflects a high-stakes environment within the Government of National Unity. The swift reaction from multiple opposition parties suggests that the Department of Social Development has become a primary litmus test for whether the current administration can translate its anti-corruption rhetoric into tangible administrative consequences.

Demands for Transparency

RISE Mzansi described the removal as a “necessary step toward restoring the public’s trust” in a department serving the country’s most vulnerable. The party pointed to the “highly irregular appointment of an unqualified Chief of Staff” and unresolved questions regarding luxury vehicle donations as major distractions.

RISE Mzansi warned that public funds should not be managed under an “ethical cloud,” stating that accountability “must be the standard, not the exception.”

Future Implications

Following this decision, political parties may continue to demand that the full report and findings leading to the dismissal be disclosed to the public. There is likely to be continued pressure on President Ramaphosa to swiftly appoint a permanent minister to restore stability to the department.

The government could face further scrutiny over governance and accountability as parties call for greater transparency regarding the circumstances of Tolashe’s exit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has been appointed to lead the department in the interim?
Sindisiwe Chikunga has been appointed as the acting minister to ensure continuity and stability.

What specific allegations were cited by the Freedom Front Plus?
MP Philip van Staden cited allegations involving irregular appointments, the alleged use of a state official as a private caregiver, and the improper use of vehicles donated by the Chinese Embassy.

How did the ANC characterize the President’s decision?
The ANC described the move as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to accountability and ethical governance, showing seriousness in tackling corruption and maladministration.

Do you believe the appointment of an acting minister is sufficient to restore public trust in the Department of Social Development?

May 15, 2026 0 comments

News

TK Nciza wants R5m in Zahara lawsuit row

by Rachel Morgan News Editor May 4, 2026

written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Former Gauteng ANC secretary Thembinkosi “TK” Nciza has approached the KuGompo City high court to seek a default judgment against arts activist Bandile Magibili. Nciza is pursuing a defamation claim to compel Magibili to pay about R5m.

The Roots of the Legal Dispute

The conflict originates from an interview Magibili gave in September last year on Podcast and Chill with MacG, hosted by MacGyver Mukwevho. During the session, Magibili allegedly claimed that Nciza was responsible for the 2023 death of singer Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana.

Nciza, who co-founded TS Records, scouted Zahara in 2010 in KuGompo City, which was then known as East London. While he initially served as her mentor, their relationship grew strained following her departure from TS Records due to allegations of exploitation and unpaid royalties.

Did You Know? Nciza co-founded TS Records in 2001 alongside Sbusiso “DJ Sbu” Leope.

Allegations of Criminality

According to court papers, Magibili made accusations suggesting Nciza was behind the singer’s death and expressed hope that her spirit would rise from the grave to haunt him. Nciza argues these statements are unfounded and harmful, effectively painting him as a criminal.

The court documents state that the utterances have the effect of creating a public image of Nciza as a murderer and are devoid of truth, causing unnecessary harm to his reputation.

Expert Insight: The move for a default judgment suggests a strategic pivot by the plaintiff when a defendant fails to engage with the legal process. In high-stakes defamation cases involving public figures, the absence of a defense can accelerate the path to a financial award, though it leaves the underlying public controversy unresolved.

Procedural Failures and Default Judgment

Legal representative Dumisani Motsamai stated in a founding affidavit that the summons was served at Magibili’s residence in KuGompo City. Although the summons was issued on February 4 and required a notice of intention to defend by February 18, Magibili did not file such a notice.

The papers further indicate that a letter of demand was sent requesting a retraction and an apology, but Magibili failed to issue a retraction within the stipulated time and has persisted in his stance.

Context of Zahara’s Passing

Zahara died in hospital at the age of 36 due to complications linked to liver disease. In 2019, her manager indicated that her liver disease was linked to alcoholism.

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Prior to being discovered by Nciza, Zahara had performed at music and poetry sessions in Buffalo City hosted by Magibili.

Nciza’s Professional and Personal Background

Beyond his business ventures, Nciza has held a significant role in politics, serving as the provincial secretary for the ANC in Gauteng between 2022 and 2025.

He was also married to Mafikizolo singer Nhlanhla Mafu from 2004 until their divorce in 2019.

Potential Next Steps

Given that Nciza has applied for judgment by default, the court may grant the R5m claim if the procedural failures of the defendant are upheld. Alternatively, Magibili could potentially attempt to challenge the default status if he can provide a legal justification for his failure to respond to the summons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thembinkosi Nciza seeking from the court?

Nciza is seeking a default judgment to compel Bandile Magibili to pay about R5m in a defamation claim.

Why is Bandile Magibili being sued?

He is being sued for statements made during an interview on Podcast and Chill with MacG in September last year, where he allegedly claimed Nciza was responsible for the death of singer Zahara.

Why is Nciza seeking a default judgment?

Nciza is seeking a default judgment due to the fact that Magibili failed to file a notice of intention to defend the claim by the February 18 deadline, despite the summons being served at his residence.

Do you believe public figures should be held to a higher standard of proof when pursuing defamation claims against activists?

May 4, 2026 0 comments

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