Top Stories

BBC News

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.

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TimesLIVE

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.

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BusinessTech

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.

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The South African

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.

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Daily Maverick

The South African National Health Laboratory Service has halted production of snake, scorpion, and spider antivenom, leaving millions in sub-Saharan Africa at risk. Hospitals are running out of stock, with only boomslang antivenom available. The NHLS cited construction work for the stoppage, despite previous assurances of sufficient supply. Upgrades to the SAVP facility are expected to resume production in late 2024.

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BusinessTech

Shoprite CEO Pieter Engelbrecht warns against food tax increases in South Africa, fearing it would hinder consumer recovery. Budget delay due to VAT hike rejection. Engelbrecht urges lawmakers to consider impact on consumers and businesses struggling with high costs and unemployment. Consumer spending shows slight recovery due to low inflation and pension system changes.

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The South African

Elon Musk distances himself from South Africa, criticizing government actions and condemning “white genocide” claims. Musk, born in Pretoria, disowns his birth country and identifies as simply American. This follows former AfriForum executive Ernst Roets’ controversial interview on Tucker Carlson Show and US President Trump granting white Afrikaners asylum.

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Daily Maverick

The uMkhonto Wesizwe party filed a treason complaint against AfriForum for allegedly lobbying foreign powers against South Africa’s interests. This follows US President Trump’s order to halt foreign aid to SA and support resettlement of Afrikaner refugees. The Hawks are investigating high treason complaints related to spreading misinformation.

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