Author: Tshegofatso Letsie
FIFA has unveiled a series of new regulations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, introducing some of the most comprehensive rule changes in modern football as preparations intensify for the global tournament. The new directives, approved less than 10 days before the competition kicks off in June, have generated mixed reactions among fans, players and football associations. While some have welcomed the measures as necessary steps to improve fairness and efficiency, others have described them as among the strictest regulations ever implemented in the sport. Among the key changes, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will now be permitted to…
The protection of children from all forms of harm, abuse and exploitation took centre stage as the world commemorated International Children’s Day on 1 June 2026. The occasion coincided with South Africa’s National Child Protection Week, observed from 29 May to 5 June under the theme, “Working Together to End Violence Against Children”. Among the organisations advocating for stronger child protection measures was Parliament’s Committee on Social Development, which called on all stakeholders to intensify efforts to safeguard children’s rights and take a firm stand against the abuse of minors. In a written statement, the Committee highlighted the alarming scale…
Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana has been elected Chairperson of Parliament’s Impeachment Committee, which is investigating President Cyril Ramaphosa’s conduct in relation to the Phala Phala farm theft matter. The Committee held its inaugural meeting on Monday, during which Gana was nominated alongside United Africans Transformation (UAT) President Wonderboy Mahlatsi. Following a vote, Gana secured 19 votes, while Mahlatsi received 12. In his acceptance remarks, Gana welcomed the responsibility of leading the proceedings, stating that the Committee’s work had officially begun. He emphasised that matters within its control would be addressed accordingly, while other aspects would be handled by relevant…
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the second interim report submitted by the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, saying it represents an important step towards restoring integrity within South Africa’s criminal justice system. The report, handed over to the President on Friday, contains the Commission’s findings and recommendations following investigations into allegations of criminality, corruption and political interference within the justice system. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the ANC’s election campaign trail in Diepsloot on Saturday, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the Commission’s work and its role in addressing systemic challenges within law enforcement agencies. “The Madlanga Commission is an…
Road safety concerns have once again come under the spotlight after nine people lost their lives in a tragic collision involving a truck and a minibus taxi on the R500 road near Potchefstroom. The crash occurred at a busy intersection linking North West, Free State and Gauteng, prompting renewed calls from the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management for motorists to exercise greater caution during the winter season. According to preliminary reports, the taxi, which was transporting 16 passengers from Fochville towards Parys, collided with an oncoming truck near the crossing point. Eight people died at the…
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has moved to allay concerns about the “winter blues” as the cold season sets in across South Africa. As winter begins, some people may experience feelings of heaviness and low mood often associated with seasonal depression. While these symptoms are commonly linked to cold, gloomy weather, they can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing if left unaddressed. SADAG highlighted common warning signs, including persistent physical exhaustion, changes in appetite, increased cravings, and a stronger desire to remain indoors. The organisation stressed the importance of distinguishing between temporary low mood and Seasonal…
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, has officially announced the members who will serve on the Phala Phala Impeachment Committee. This development follows a ruling by the Constitutional Court, which found Parliament’s previous vote on the Section 89 report to be invalid and unconstitutional. Political parties were required to submit nominations by 22 May 2026, although the African National Congress (ANC) missed the deadline and only submitted its list over the weekend. The committee comprises representatives from multiple political parties as follows: The African National Congress (ANC) nominees include DE Mpapane, X Nqola, MS Lekganyane, AF Muthambi, CM…
The South African National Taxi Council has taken a firm stance in support of women’s leadership during its 8th National Elective Conference, which commenced on Monday at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. SANTACO President Motlhabane Tsebe officially opened the two-day conference, with the first day dedicated to the election of women leaders, while the mainstream structure elections are scheduled for Tuesday. In his opening address, Tsebe emphasised the critical role of women and the importance of gender transformation within the taxi industry. “The future of the taxi industry is women. Women are operators, organisers, leaders, negotiators and…
Gayton McKenzie has rejected allegations of xenophobia against South Africa during this year’s Africa Day celebrations in the North West Province. The annual commemoration was overshadowed by widespread marches against illegal immigration held across the country. Interest groups and ordinary South Africans took to the streets to protest what they described as an alarming rise in illegal immigration, arguing that it is placing severe pressure on service delivery and public resources. The main Africa Day event was hosted at Moruleng Stadium outside Rustenburg, where McKenzie addressed the growing debate surrounding immigration and accusations of xenophobia. “South Africa is facing many…
Authorities have warned motorists to avoid the flooded N14 route between Vryburg and Kuruman in the North West, as rising water levels continue to make the road unsafe for travel. The route remains closed following heavy rainfall that affected several parts of the country, with provincial police confirming that water levels increased further by 2 May. Road users have been urged to use the N18 route between Vryburg and Kimberley via Taung as an alternative, while officials warned that ignoring closure notices could leave motorists trapped in floodwaters and at risk of drowning. The warning comes as the Road Traffic…