Author: newsnote correspondent
U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has revealed that Russia may be contemplating a ‘Permanent Peace’ agreement in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This announcement follows an intense five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, underscoring the potential for a shift in the trajectory of this long-standing confrontation. The conversation reportedly touched upon a range of critical topics, including security protocols between the two nations, the implications of NATO’s Article 5, and the prospect of opening new commercial avenues that could reshape the U.S.-Russia relationship. However, the specifics surrounding Russia’s demands and intentions remain conspicuously vague, leaving room for…
The High Court in Pietermaritzburg has reopened the inquest into the controversial death of Chief Albert Luthuli, an esteemed anti-apartheid activist and the former President of the African National Congress (ANC). His untimely demise in 1967 has long been shrouded in speculation, with official reports historically attributing it to an accident involving a train. However, the initial inquiries lacked a critical component—any photographs of the crime scene or the post-mortem examination, a shocking revelation that emerged during the court’s first session of the reopened inquest. Captain Godisamang Kgamanyane, the first witness, detailed his investigation which began in 2019. He disclosed…
In a testimony before the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism in the North West Provincial Legislature, former board members of the North West Parks and Tourism Board have described an entity in crisis. Their accounts reveal alarming fiscal mismanagement, exacerbated by ineffective leadership that has left the organisation reliant on government bailouts amid ongoing operational challenges. The session unfolded in a contentious atmosphere as former Board Chairperson Tshidi Mogale and her colleagues voiced their frustrations regarding the entity’s financial state. Mogale emphasised a crucial decision-making juncture where, despite the urgent need for employee salary payments, the…
The chairperson of the Standing Committee on Finance in Parliament, Joe Maswanganyi, has asserted that the responsibility to implement the proposed 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) ultimately lies with Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. As discussions intensify within the Government of National Unity (GNU), the implications of such a fiscal adjustment are reverberating across South Africa’s economic landscape. If passed, the VAT increase is set to take effect on 1 May, but it has sparked a wave of disagreement among members of the GNU, highlighting the complexities of governance and fiscal policy in the current political climate. Maswanganyi emphasised…
The courtroom buzzed with a mix of hope and despair as two senior police officers testified in the ongoing inquest into the death of renowned anti-apartheid leader Albert Luthuli. The proceedings, which have attracted significant attention, are a poignant reminder of the legacy of a man who fought tirelessly for the rights of his people. Advocate Siyabonga Ngcobo, representing the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), led the testimony of Captain Godisamang Frank Kgamanyane of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation. Kgamanyane faced considerable challenges while working on the case, disclosing that the original docket concerning Luthuli’s death had been discarded in…
In a remarkable feat of endurance and community spirit, three passionate cyclists from Limpopo have successfully completed a daunting 1,700km journey from Burgersfort to Cape Town. Gauta Mahlakoane, Karabo Mokoo, and Maxwell Ndou embarked on this challenging expedition not just for personal accomplishment, but with a noble mission: to raise funds for their local BMX club while advocating for sports as a meaningful alternative to crime and drug use among South Africa’s youth. The trio’s journey has garnered significant attention, highlighting the transformative power of sports in steering youngsters away from negative influences. Throughout their ride, which demanded resilience and…
In a groundbreaking moment for both pop culture and the horizons of space exploration, singer Katy Perry was launched into space on Monday as part of the six-woman crew aboard Jeff Bezos’s New Shepard NS-31 mission. The expedition, which aimed to celebrate women’s achievements in science and technology, lifted off from launch facilities in West Texas at 2.30pm BST (8.30am local time), and was described as both exhilarating and emotional for each of the remarkable women on board.As the rocket pulled away from the gantry, Perry could be heard exclaiming “oh my god,” a spontaneous reaction that captured the thrill…
The much-anticipated trial surrounding the murder of South African football star Senzo Meyiwa succumbed to yet another postponement today at the Pretoria High Court. The trial, which has captivated the nation, now waits indefinitely as Advocate Charles Mnisi, defending accused number one Muzi Sibiya, requested additional time to prepare his defence—a request that was granted by Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng. This postponement marks a disheartening chapter in a legal saga that has already seen a two-month delay following the previous request by Mnisi. Such repeated postponements have ignited frustration among those seeking justice for Meyiwa, who was tragically shot dead in…
South Africa’s rand made a notable recovery against a weaker U.S. dollar on Monday, buoying hopes for stability after recent bouts of extreme volatility. At 0638 GMT, the rand was trading at 18.9675 to the dollar, reflecting a strong 1% increase compared to its previous close. The current dynamics underpinning South Africa’s financial markets are indicative of a complex interplay between domestic political stability and international trade relations. The rand’s recovery is attributed in part to a backdrop of trade tensions stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies, as well as growing concerns that a vital coalition partner could…
Orlando Pirates secured their place in the Nedbank Cup final with a narrow 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants. This win marks a significant milestone for the Pirates, who not only became the first team to breach the Gallants’ defence in this year’s tournament but also continued their impressive streak in cup competitions. The match showcased the determination and skill of the Buccaneers, as they faced a Gallants side that had been formidable throughout the competition. By scoring the only goal of the match, Orlando Pirates not only earned a spot in the final but also maintained their formidable reputation in…