Top Stories

What Trump’s return means for South Africa


BusinessTech


South Africans warned to monitor US economy under Trump’s return, which could impact rand, inflation, and interest rates. Trump’s focus on job creation and tax cuts resonates with US electorate, but policies may lead to higher inflation. Concerns over tariffs, deportations, and tax cuts could complicate rate cuts for US Federal Reserve and South African Reserve Bank.



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ANC in KZN and Gauteng to be ‘reconfigured’


Daily Maverick


ANC’s Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal structures advised to halt activities as NWC plans to reconfigure, potentially reshuffling top brass. Plans to be finalized in a week, with NEC members to present detailed plan. Decision follows poor electoral performance in 2024. KwaZulu-Natal hit hardest by uMkhonto Wesizwe party, ANC’s vote share dropped significantly.



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The decline and potential fall of the ANC empire


Daily Maverick


Recent reports suggest deep corruption within the ANC, with former officials implicated in corrupt activities. Testimonies reveal former National Assembly speaker Mapisa-Nqakula’s involvement in soliciting cash bribes. The revelations could impact the ANC’s support unless reformist leadership is elected in 2027. The reports, although based on questionable sources, highlight systemic corruption within the government and military.



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One of South Africa’s biggest competitors joins BRICS


BusinessTech


Nigeria joins BRICS as a partner state, expanding the group beyond its original members. The move aims to challenge the dominance of the dollar in oil and gas trading and provide a counterweight to the Group of Seven nations. Nigeria’s acceptance was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting the country’s commitment to international collaboration and economic opportunities within the alliance.



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US presidential inauguration — it was not just one of those weeks, that’s for sure


Daily Maverick


Recent events, including a Middle Eastern ceasefire and the release of hostages by Hamas, mark a momentous period for America and the world. These developments are tied to ongoing conflicts and regional changes. Additionally, Donald J. Trump’s inauguration as the 45th or 47th president, a rare feat achieved only by Grover Cleveland in the 19th century, adds to the significance of the current situation.



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Capitec Bank fraud warning


BusinessTech


Capitec Bank, South Africa’s largest bank with 22.2 million clients, warns of common scams causing financial losses. Recognized for exceptional technology use, it was ranked the world’s best bank in 2016 and received a five-star rating. The bank’s large customer base and technological prowess provide valuable insights into customer behavior and scams affecting clients.



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South African police launch hunt for alleged illegal mining ‘kingpin’


the Guardian


South African police are searching for James Neo Tshoaeli, a Lesotho national known as Tiger, accused of being a kingpin in illegal mining. Tshoaeli escaped custody after a rescue operation retrieved 78 bodies from an illicit goldmine. Police are investigating officials who may have aided his escape. Tshoaeli is considered dangerous and a fugitive of justice.



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December road deaths rise to 1,502


Business Day


Transport Minister Barbara Creecy criticized the lawlessness on SA’s roads as she revealed the 2024 festive season’s road fatalities. There were 1,200 accidents resulting in 1,502 deaths, a 5.3% increase from 2023. All provinces reported fatalities, with KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State seeing significant increases. Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Western Cape had decreases. Creecy acknowledged efforts but emphasized the need for more work.



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