Author: Tshegofatso Letsie
Lekompo musician, Lehlohonolo Chauke popularly referred to as ‘Shebeshxt’ or ‘Maburna’, has suffered another unsuccessful bail application. The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday dismissed the bid on alleged new facts presented by Chauke. The recent dismissal by the Polokwane Court marks Chauke’s third bail setback since his arrest back in November 2025. A statement released by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Limpopo, revealed that he now faces a total of nine charges. “These include assault, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, malicious property damage and attempted murder. During the bail proceedings, the State presented by Senior Public Prosecutor…
Trade federation COSATU has expressed confidence that its tripartite alliance partners, the ANC and SACP, will respect the significance of the main 2026 Workers’ Day rally, set to take place on 1 May at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo. This comes despite recent tensions between the two parties following the SACP’s decision to contest elections independently of the ANC. During separate recent media briefings, the SACP reaffirmed its intention to pursue its electoral ambitions, while the ANC issued an ultimatum to members holding dual membership in both organisations. COSATU President Zingisa Losi told reporters on Wednesday that…
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has officially launched the Mzansi World Cup Lucky Fans Competition ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June. The initiative aims to give ordinary South Africans the opportunity to experience the tournament live, while proudly supporting the national team, Bafana Bafana. The announcement follows DSAC’s decision to discontinue funding for trips traditionally allocated to well-known “super fans” within the sporting community. Minister Gayton McKenzie defended the move, stating that the funds would instead be redirected towards supporting athletes and other departmental priorities. Despite public backlash, McKenzie maintains that the decision will…
The newly appointed North West Public Service Commissioner (PSC), Advocate Neo Sephoti, has expressed confidence in her ability to fulfil her mandate following her official introduction to members of the Provincial Legislature on Tuesday. Her appointment follows a rigorous interview process conducted by the Ad-Hoc Committee on the Appointment of the Public Service Commissioner, chaired by Chief Whip Motlalepula Rosho. Advocate Sephoti assumes the role after a four-year vacancy, with the Provincial Legislature voicing strong confidence in her experience and leadership capabilities. In a media statement, the Legislature highlighted her extensive professional background, noting that she previously served as Head…
The release of the recent sneak preview of the much anticipated Avengers: Doomsday movie has sparked a lot of speculation, with fans predicting thrilling action that is going to place them on the edge of their seats. The teaser depicts Chris Hemsworth who plays Thor, known as the God of Thunder and considered as one of the strongest Avengers characters, praying and pleading for a safe return from battle to his daughter. The sneak peek triggered a frenzy on social media, with Marvel fans foreseeing a challenging battle for the heroes in this instalment of the movie. Avengers: Doomsday will…
The 2026 World Happiness Report highlights a clear connection between heavy social media use and declining well-being, particularly among young adults. The report, sponsored by the United Nations in collaboration with the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre and the American analytics firm Gallup, examines global trends in happiness and quality of life. Findings show that excessive engagement with social media—averaging over five hours per day—is linked to higher rates of depressive symptoms, especially among individuals under 25. “In a ranking of happiness changes for under-25s, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand (the NANZ region) rank between 122…
Hugo Broos has announced the final Bafana Bafana squad ahead of their upcoming international friendlies against Panama national football team. The South African national team will face Panama in two fixtures later this month. The first match is scheduled for 27 March 2026 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, followed by a second encounter on 31 March 2026 at DHL Stadium. Broos initially named a 37-man preliminary squad but has since trimmed the list down to a final 23 players. Notable inclusions in the revised squad include the recall of Renaldo Leaner of Sekhukhune United, as well as Thabang Matuludi from Polokwane…
The role of science in tackling South Africa’s water crisis was the focus of the UNISA Water Imbizo held in Pretoria, where experts and government officials discussed systemic and structural challenges affecting communities nationwide. Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, emphasized the critical role of academic institutions in developing integrated, science-driven solutions. He called for collaboration between government and academia to devise practical strategies. “Universities and research institutions must be at the centre of our national response. We need solutions informed by data, guided by science, and capable of being implemented at scale. Scientific capability must find expression…
The Department of Transport is warning of potential congestion along South Africa’s coastline as more ships may reroute via the Cape of Good Hope due to ongoing tensions in the Middle-East. The warning came during the National Transport Conference at the Gallagher Conference Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg, where Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa highlighted the anticipated increase in maritime traffic. “South Africa will experience a significant spike in East-West shipping traffic, particularly container vessels, tankers, and bulk carriers that are now avoiding the Middle-East route. The re-routing of vessels could increase transits along the Cape of Good Hope depending on the…
RISE Mzansi has called for improved governance to honour South Africa’s struggle stalwarts, as the country observes Human Rights Month. Addressing MPs during the Human Rights Day debate in the National Assembly on Tuesday, party leader Songezo Zibi reflected on the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms enjoyed in today’s democratic South Africa. He emphasised the need to move beyond abstract discussions, urging lawmakers to focus on practical actions within their control. Zibi argued that freedom should not only be understood as being “free from” oppression, but also as being “free to” access opportunities and improve one’s quality of life.…