insert_link Opinion Pieces Russia-Africa Partnership Under Scrutiny: Draft Joint Statement Of On-going Forum Sparks Concerns Over Neocolonialism and Deceit By Khwima Nkhonjera The first Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum has kicked off in Sochi, Russia, amid headlines about the gathering not just being about strengthening bilateral ties. A joint statement drafted for the summit has raised eyebrows, with claims of cooperation which pro-democracy supporters argue are “misleading” or “downright false.” This two-day gathering, organised by Roscongress Foundation, seeks to implement decisions made at the 2023 summit […] todayNovember 12, 2024 12
insert_link South Africa In S.A, the DA plans to reintroduce two bills to stabilise coalition governments To S.A, where the DA plans to reintroduce two bills to stabilise coalition governments. The Local Government Municipal Structures Amendment Bill and the Constitution Nineteenth Amendment Bill aim to limit motions of no confidence to one per year, with exceptions for misconduct or legal violations. The DA’s George Michalakis believes these measures will reduce political instability and ensure better governance, focusing on service delivery rather than political games: […] todayNovember 12, 2024 13
insert_link South Africa ANC has reinforced its commitment to an inclusive democracy In S.A, the ANC has reinforced its commitment to an inclusive democracy in its submission to the electoral systems panel, supporting the current proportional representation system. The party says this model has ensured fair representation of diverse groups, including women, youth, people with disabilities and LGBTQI-plus communities. Addressing the media, ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula, the party pledges to prioritise accountability and transparency in any changes, aiming to uphold […] todayNovember 8, 2024 11
insert_link South Africa The ANC has called for stricter health and safety protocols for spaza shops In S.A, the ANC has called for stricter health and safety protocols for spaza shops following recent foodborne illnesses, which have affected children. The party is working with law enforcement, local businesses, and other partners to introduce stricter regulations for establishments like spaza shops to ensure public health is prioritised. ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula told the media the party is also closely monitoring investigations into these incidents: todayNovember 8, 2024 11
insert_link South Africa Dali Mpofu becomes latest EFF member to join uMkhonto weSizwe Former EFF national chairperson Dali Mpofu has joined uMkhonto weSizwe. He forms part of the exodus of EFF leaders who have jumped ship in recent months to join Jacob Zuma's party, including former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, Mzwanele Manyi, and Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Mpofu, a long-standing Zuma ally, told the SABC this move to the MK Party had been in the works for a year. EFF leader Julius Malema remains unmoved by […] todayNovember 7, 2024 17
insert_link South Africa S.A. Begins Implementing Basic Education Laws Amendment Act S.A's Basic Education minister Siviwe Gwarube says her department has started with the implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act. President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Act into law in September but agreed to hold the implementation of two contentious clauses while discussions take place around addressing the impasse. Gwarube says they are still awaiting the presidential-led process on clauses four and five, which deal with language and admission policies: […] todayNovember 7, 2024 15
insert_link South Africa AfriForum and Solidarity Reject Cosatu’s Claims of Apartheid Flags at BELA Protest AfriForum and Solidarity have dismissed Cosatu's claims that apartheid flags were displayed at the BELA protest in Pretoria. AfriForum's Kallie Kriel says the accusations are false and malicious. Adding that with over ten-thousand attendees protesting the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, organisers noted one individual with a Vierkleur flag, who was quickly escorted off-site. He criticised Cosatu over the allegations: todayNovember 7, 2024 14
insert_link South Africa Environmental Groups Urge South African Government to End Partnerships with Fossil Fuel Companies Environmental groups in S.A, including the Green Connection and Extinction Rebellion, are calling for the government to stop partnering with fossil fuel companies amid the Africa Energy Week in Cape Town. They argue the event’s high costs exclude civil society from vital discussions that focus on oil and gas investments. The Green Connection’s Lisa Makaula, says they plan to protest outside the venue, calling for sustainable development and protections for […] todayNovember 7, 2024 6
insert_link South Africa S.A. Police Target Food Manufacturers Amid Rising Food Poisoning Cases In S.A, Acting Gauteng premier and Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela says police have been given a mandate to focus on food manufacturers, as cases of suspected food poisoning are on the rise. She visited the family of two pupils from Sonqoba Primary School in Katlehong, who died after allegedly consuming snacks from a local spaza shop and food supplied by the school. Diale-Tlabela says communities need to be […] todayNovember 6, 2024 19