Author: MashamaiteM@arena.africa (Modiegi Mashamaite)
The Freedom Front Plus (FF+) manifesto for crime and safety in South Africa advocates for specialised units to address violent crime and illegal firearms trade, protecting citizens’ right to own firearms, and making farm attacks a priority crime with proper resources allocated to rural safety. In an interview with the SABC, Groenewald highlighted the increasing brazenness of criminals and the failure of the justice system to deter crime. He also addressed hate speech, particularly in relation to farm murders, emphasizing the FF+’s success in having the song ‘Kill the Boer’ declared hate speech. Recently, complaints were lodged against EFF leader…
Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi recently addressed the confusion surrounding employment contracts for the jobs-drive initiative in a late-night meeting with directors-general and heads of departments. This came after a clash in communication from the provincial government regarding the employment status of thousands of expanded public works programme (EPWP) “green army” workers. Lesufi shared a picture of a letter informing EPWP employees that their contracts were ending, signed under the name of acting head of the agriculture, rural development, and environment department. However, he assured the workers that they remained employed and stated that he would resolve the issue with department…
South Africans are abuzz with talk of the rand’s recent instability against the US dollar, sparked by uncertainty surrounding the appointment of the cabinet. Social media was flooded with reactions as the rand fluctuated, causing confusion among users. The volatility in the rand’s value has raised concerns, attributed to the delays in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet formation and the DA’s threats to withdraw from the government of national unity (GNU). Trading at R18.00 on Monday, the rand later slipped to R18.23. By Thursday, it had traded at R18.16 and then at R18.42. Friday saw a slight rise to R18.18. Many…
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent letter to DA leader John Steenhuisen has stirred up debate on social media. In the letter dated June 25, Ramaphosa criticized the DA for jeopardizing the formation of a government of national unity (GNU) by changing their demands. Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of collective cabinet work under his leadership and expressed disappointment with the DA’s latest proposal. He stated that their proposal did not align with the principles of open, consistent, and constitutionally compliant engagements needed to create a government reflective of the people’s will. The leaked letter and ensuing reactions have sparked intense discussions on…
Kenyan police, acting under President William Ruto’s orders, fired live ammunition at unarmed protesters, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. The EFF strongly condemned these actions, stating that it was a blatant violation of human rights. Protesters had gathered at Kenya’s parliament to oppose a finance bill that aimed to raise taxes, including taxes on daily essentials like internet data, fuel, and bank transfers. The bill was intended to increase Kenya’s tax revenue to meet targets set by the IMF and World Bank. However, the public viewed the bill as excessive and burdensome, exacerbating poverty and economic hardship. Despite…
ANC’s first deputy secretary-general, Nomvula Mokonyane, is standing firm in her belief that the ANC can successfully form a government of national unity (GNU) without the DA. The tension between the two parties arose after disagreements over cabinet positions. In a recent interview with Newzroom Afrika, Mokonyane stated, “There is no GNU between the ANC and the DA; we called all political parties. They leaked their proposals to the media, disrupting the negotiation process and consultation between party leaders.” Mokonyane expressed her dissatisfaction with the DA’s demand for 12 cabinet cluster positions, emphasizing that no organization should impose their terms…
During his swearing in, Hlophe emphasized the MK Party’s stance on nationalisation of land, stating that every South African should have access to it. He highlighted the historical context of land acquisition and the need to Africanize laws. The appointment of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of MK Party leader Jacob Zuma, stirred controversy due to the influential yet divisive nature of the Zuma family in South African politics. Critics on social media raised concerns about political patronage and nepotism, while supporters lauded her fresh perspective and commitment to advocating for the disenfranchised. These appointments have sparked intense discussions and scrutiny on…
Former public protector Thuli Madonsela sheds light on the concept of the government of national unity (GNU), emphasizing that ministers must adhere to existing policies regardless of their party affiliations. This comes amid anticipation of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet announcement, with various parties vying for key positions. Madonsela stresses that government policy remains unchanged unless altered by the executive, and all ministers act as representatives of the president. She underscores the necessity for consensus among parties to introduce new policies, as outlined in the GNU’s statement of intent. Addressing concerns about governing with ministers from different parties, Madonsela highlights that…
As South Africa navigates through political turmoil, the Government of National Unity (GNU) is faced with challenges and demands from its 10 political parties. Amidst the power struggle, PA leader Gayton McKenzie made it clear that his party is in the GNU for positions, particularly eyeing the police ministry and home affairs. McKenzie emphasized the importance of power dynamics within politics, stating that the delay in forming a cabinet is primarily due to negotiations over positions. While some may criticize the focus on power, McKenzie underscored the constitutional right of the president to determine appointees. Despite the discord among political…
The National Assembly speaker, Thoko Didiza, is considering the EFF’s request to begin impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa in relation to the Phala Phala saga. The EFF initiated the process by writing a letter to Didiza outlining their intentions. Despite the sixth administration already addressing the Phala Phala issue, Didiza acknowledged the EFF’s letter and stated that legal advice will be sought before responding. The Phala Phala case gained attention in 2022 due to allegations of financial misconduct at Ramaphosa’s game farm. The EFF referenced the section 89 panel report, highlighting potential violations by the President. This prompted Didiza…