Stories from South Africa

Automakers from China and India are increasing their presence in the South African automotive market. These entry-level vehicles often include specifications and additional features that typically require extra payment in other models.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the local government elections will be held on November 4. Ramaphosa stated there must be continuity in governance following the appointment of new councillors and mayors. The announcement comes ahead of the upcoming election cycle. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) noted that the Special Investigating Unit is continuing its probe into alleged academic fraud at the University of Fort Hare in the Eastern Cape. The Pan-African Parliament has also elected new leadership. The Chief Electoral Officer is scheduled to discuss the announcement on the program Meeting Point. The announcement follows recent presidential directives regarding the electoral timeline. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is currently in discussions regarding the electoral process and the protection of journalists' work.

The Ogoroulini ordinary council meeting in Germiston collapsed today after failing to meet a quorum. Speaker John Sinona is currently traveling, which prompted a proposal for an acting Speaker. Political parties objected to the acting municipal manager taking charge. The agenda included electricity tariffs and disciplinary actions regarding officials implicated at the Balanga Commission. The DA and EFF members walked out due to a dispute regarding who should preside in the absence of Speaker John Sinona. The EFF declared the sitting illegal, citing Rule 43 of the standing orders. A roll call of 93 members failed to reach a quorum, resulting in the meeting's conclusion. Authorities have seven days to resume the meeting. Legislation allows the city manager to preside over the council for the purpose of electing an acting speaker.

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) identified procurement fraud across several municipalities in the Northwest province. Matlosana and Klerksdorp were found to have paid over 2 million rand to 26 providers through irregular PPE contracts.

Shukuru Malachi has denied providing authority for implicated Goobies 85 solutions to receive ad hoc security work. The statement addresses the role Malachi played in continuing with the ad hoc security arrangements.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that resolving the water crisis requires collaborative and coordinated responses across all three spheres of government. He said the need for working together with social partners and communities.

Two people died following a fire in the Mdani extension of Soweto, Johannesburg. Emergency services responded to the blaze around 5am, according to officials.

Magistrate Gottfried Nechi identified several ports of entry requiring serious tightening, including LeBombo, Bait Bridge, Oshook, Copfontein, Maseru Bridge, and Fixback. Border management authorities have completed a process to identify these locations.

Shebe Mabona was denied bail at the Polokwane Magistrates Court. The decision reportedly disappointed supporters within the province and the country. Reporter Sugu Shiluvana provided the update from the court.

Chukuru Malachi, a suspended director for asset protection at the Twanio Metro Police Department, continues testifying in the Pulukwane magistrate's court. A bid for postponement was denied earlier this morning.