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Lesotho government expresses shock at US President Trump’s comment calling the country unknown during a speech to Congress. Lesotho enjoys warm relations with the US and benefits from trade under Agoa. Foreign Affairs Minister criticizes Trump’s remarks as disrespectful.
A 55-year-old Nigerian national was arrested by SAPS at OR Tambo International Airport for suspected drug trafficking from São Paulo, Brazil. The man had swallowed cocaine with a street value of R7.5 million. SAPS spokesperson stated that the suspect is still releasing the cocaine-filled bullets and will appear in court soon.
Ten people died and over 31 were injured in a bus-truck collision on the N6 near Reddersburg. The road has reopened after the accident. The City-to-City bus carrying 35 passengers collided with a truck, resulting in the deaths of 10 passengers. Emergency services responded quickly, with five seriously injured passengers taken to Bloemfontein hospitals and 22 others treated at a local hospital.
Erratic weather and insecurity have left nearly a quarter of Somalia’s population in need of food. The number could rise to 4.4 million by June, up from 3.3 million. 1.7 million children under five are at risk of acute malnutrition. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report highlights the dire situation.
Luxury cruise offers adult-oriented activities in Antarctica, raising concerns about impact on environment. Tours by Luxury Lifestyle Vacations cater to open-minded couples and singles, with predictions of over 100,000 visitors to Antarctica by 2024. Growing tourism numbers raise questions about conservation and awareness efforts in the region.
The Department of Transport seeks to declare a R400 million tender for a new driving licence card machine unlawful due to irregularities in the procurement process. The Auditor General found that the tender awarded to Idemia lacked proper scoring and procurement procedures. Minister Barbara Creecy plans to challenge the tender in court.
Ukraine’s President Zelensky’s decision to mend ties with Trump divides opinions in Ukraine. Blogger Yuriy Kasyanov criticizes the move, while former MP Boryslav Bereza supports it. Zelensky’s recent address outside Kyiv’s Presidential Office recalls his defiant stance during Russia’s invasion. His decision to continue fighting appears to be diminishing.
Tensions escalated in Cape Town after a minibus taxi driver’s forceful arrest led to false rumors of his death. The incident sparked drama and alleged hostage-taking of law enforcement officers. The SA National Taxi Council criticized the arrest as heavy-handed, while the city reported injuries to traffic officers during subsequent clashes with taxi drivers. Santaco condemned the use of excessive force by law enforcement.
Government is considering a streaming levy to support SABC’s financial stability, revealed by Minister Solly Malatsi. The current TV licence system is failing due to low compliance rates. The levy would modernize funding and improve compliance, exempting up-to-date TV licence payers. This may increase consumer costs and require regulatory changes. Other funding options are also being explored.
Neuralink executive Shivon Zilis welcomed her fourth child with billionaire Elon Musk, making him a father of 14. This news comes shortly after author Ashley St.Clair claimed to have had a baby with Musk. Zilis shared the news of their son Seldon Lycurgus, describing him as strong and kind-hearted.
