Category BreakingNews

Tribunal concludes first week of testimony in EC Judge President Mbenenge sexual harassment case


EWN


The Judicial Conduct Tribunal in Johannesburg is hearing testimony in the sexual harassment case against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge, accused of harassing a high court secretary. The complainant detailed unwanted advances, including conversations about the judge’s private parts. The tribunal is examining the interactions to determine if they were unwanted. The case began in 2023 after a complaint was filed.



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Police deny detonating explosives in Stilfontein mine shaft


Daily Maverick


Giwusa accuses SAPS of detonating explosives in Shaft 10 of Buffelsfontein gold mine while miners were trapped, following completion of rescue operation in Shaft 11. President Mametlwe Sebei claims miners were still in Shaft 10 when explosion occurred, alleging cover-up by police to prevent body count from rising above 78. Giwusa demands search for survivors, denouncing police interference with justice.



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Large South African shopping mall completely empty and deteriorating in plain sight


BusinessTech


The Villa shopping centre in Pretoria, empty for 15 years, is deteriorating. Owners plan to complete construction and fill it with stores. The R3.5 billion development was to be one of South Africa’s largest malls, with 302,744 square meters. Located in Moreleta Park, it aimed to compete with Menlyn Park, attracting R1.5 billion in investor funding.



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HEAVY prison sentence handed down to rhino poacher applauded


The South African


Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment Minister Dr. Dion George praised the 18-year prison sentence given to a Congolese rhino poacher and money launderer. The suspect pleaded guilty, while 15 co-accused await trial. George emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to poaching, expressing disappointment that the poacher collaborated with locals and park rangers. George recently gained insights on wildlife issues at a training course.



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ANC says national and provincial leaders will be held accountable for electoral decline


EWN


ANC leaders are meeting to decide on the fate of its underperforming Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal branches. The party holds all structures accountable for poor election results, considering disbanding or reconfiguring the branches. ANC NEC meeting at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg to address electoral decline and potential leadership changes. National leadership may also be held accountable for the party’s overall decline.



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Ithala faces liquidation amid insolvency concerns


The mail& Guardian


The Prudential Authority’s move to liquidate Ithala could close 257,000 depositors’ accounts as legal proceedings unfold. Ithala’s financial troubles led to the decision, with the Reserve Bank citing insolvency and lack of compliance. Ithala disputes the claims, seeking government intervention to prevent closure and job losses. Deposit protection is assured by a government guarantee.



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Judge replied to text on GBV with picture of halfnaked woman, hearing told


The mail& Guardian


Eastern Cape judge president Selby Mbenenge faces sexual harassment allegations from colleague Andiswa Mengo, who testified about inappropriate WhatsApp exchanges. Mbenenge denies sending explicit messages but admits to flirtatious communication. The tribunal is ongoing, with Mbenenge being the first South African judge facing impeachment for sexual misconduct. Hearing to continue until 24 January.



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