During a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly on Thursday afternoon, Manyi rose on a point of order and excoriated Ramaphosa for referring to Hlophe as “judge”.

Manyi vs Ramaphosa in National Assembly

“We have a president, who was part of an impeachment process, that now continues to mock our party leader here in Parliament.

“The president cannot continue to keep mocking our party leader as a judge when he knows that he participated in a process to unfairly impeach him,” Manyi said in the House.

Ramaphosa, moments earlier, said “honourable judge” when answering a question posed by Hlophe, the MK Party leader in Parliament.

“He impeaches him on the one side and mocks him on the other. That cannot be allowed,” Manyi said.

Ramaphosa was seemingly contrite in response to Manyi’s complaint, apologising for addressing Hlophe as “judge”.

“I would like to say to honourable Manyi and honourable Hlophe that if my reference to the title is offensive, I apologise and I withdraw,” Ramaphosa said.

Background into ‘judge’ issue

Former Western Cape judge president Hlophe was impeached by members of Parliament (MPs) in February after he was found guilty of gross misconduct by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). MPs voted 305 in favour versus 27 against.

A month later, Ramaphosa hammered the final nail in Hlophe’s career, formally removing him from judicial office.

“The president accordingly removed Judge President Mandlakayise Hlophe of the Western Cape Division of the High Court from judicial office following the National Sssembly resolution to remove Judge Hlophe as stipulated in section 177 (1) (b) of the Constitution,” Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said in a statement at the time.

The removal meant Hlophe lost the title of “judge” and a guaranteed salary, plus benefits, for life.

John Hlophe: Journey to impeachment

Trouble started for Hlophe in 2008 when he was accused by Constitutional Court (ConCourt) justices Chris Jafta and Bess Nkabinde of trying to influence them over a case involving former president Jacob Zuma, which was before the ConCourt for consideration.

Eleven ConCourt justices lodged a complaint after Jafta and Nkabinde complained that Hlophe “had visited them separately in their chambers to discuss pending judgments” involving corruption cases against Zuma, reported TimesLIVE.

They complained that he had improperly attempted to influence the outcome of the matter in favour of Zuma.

Fast forward to April 2021, when “a tribunal inquiry found Hlophe guilty of gross misconduct, a decision upheld by the JSC [without the parliamentarians] in August 2021”, reports Judges Matter.

Is Ramaphosa mocking Hlophe or is Manyi overreacting?

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Zuma and Thales face charges of corruption, fraud and racketeering. Zuma is alleged to have received 783 suspicious payments to the tune of R1.2 million from his financial advisor Shabir Shaik. 

JACOB ZUMA AND THALES MATTER BACK IN COURT

Zuma and Thales were first charged in 2005, but the case was later struck from the roll. In 2007, it was reinstated, but in 2009, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) withdrew the charges. 

The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) overturned that decision, and in 2018, the case was reinstated again. The trial officially got underway in May 2021 when Zuma pleaded not guilty, Eyewitness News reported.

On Thursday, Zuma was flanked by uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party newly-appointed national organiser Floyd Shivambu and former Police Minister Nathi Nhleko as he arrived. Former National Freedom Party (NFP) secretary-general Canaan Mdletshe was also at the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg to support Zuma.

In March this year Zuma lost his court bid to have state prosecutor advocate Billy Downer removed from his corruption trial.

Zuma had argued that involving Downer in the matter would infringe his right to a fair trial.

Chili said he was not convinced that Downer’s status as lead prosecutor on the case would prejudice Zuma and violate his right to a fair trial.

Zuma’s legal representative advocate Dali Mpofu, citing various cases, said that Zuma was entitled to those reasons so that he could appeal his decision properly, IOL reported.

On the other hand, Downer argued that this was the third time the matter was set down for pre-trial and urged Judge Nkosinathi Chili to go ahead.

On Thursday, judge Chili postponed the matter to 11 September in order to give reasons for his decision [in March] to dismiss Zuma’s application.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE DELAYS IN THE JACOB ZUMA AND THALES CORRUPTION CASE?

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Universal Music in Sweden said videos had surfaced of ABBA’s music being played at at least one Trump event.

Donald Trump played ‘The Winner Takes it All’ in Minnesota

“We have demanded that (the material) be taken down and removed,” Universal Music AB told AFP in an email.

“Universal Music Publishing AB and (record company) Polar Music International AB have not received any request (to use the music), so no permission or licence has been given to Trump,” it said.

Swedish daily Svenska Dagbladet said its reporter had in July attended a Donald Trump rally in Minnesota – known for its strong Swedish community – where “The Winner Takes it All” was played.

The reporter said the song was followed by a 10-minute video clip, projected on a big screen, of ABBA in its heyday playing some of its biggest hits, including “Money, Money, Money” and “Dancing Queen”.

Catchy melodies

With their catchy melodies and glittering costumes, Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid – whose initials make up the name of the group – personified disco around the globe until they stopped performing in 1982.

The group is the latest in a slew of artists who have asked the US Republican presidential candidate to refrain from using their music at rallies and events, including Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Celine Dion and the Rolling Stones.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

Manyi who recently ditched the EFF was sworn in alongside corruption-accused former heads of state-owned enterprises Brian Molefe, Siyabonga Gama and Lucky Montana on Wednesday. Another Zuma loyalist Thulani Gamede whose name was removed on the eleventh hour from the list of MK Party members heading to the KZN legislature was also sworn in.

MK PARTY CONTINUES TO SHUFFLE ITS LEADERS

Manyi’s appointment as chief whip comes as the MK Party fired 18 members of Parliament earlier this month.

The members who are challenging their dismissal in the Western Cape High Court were fired to make way for the seven who were sworn in on Wednesday and eight others are yet to fill the vacant seats.

Following the dismissal, MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said many of those who were on the party’s candidate list should not have been there in the first place.

Ndhlela said their list was sabotaged and ended up including Zuma whom he said was not supposed to appear on the list.

Regarding Manyi’s appointment, Ndhlela said the former GCIS boss brings in a wealth of experience to the administrative yet political role.

Ndhlela said Manyi’s expertise will add impetus to the ongoing work within the MK Party, whilst building upon the foundation laid by Sihle Ngubane.

“Honourable Sihle will continue to serve as an ordinary member of the National Assembly as assigned to the committees he continues to participate in,” he added.

Recently, Zuma fired Arthur Zwane as the party’s secretary-general for the second time.

Zwane was initially fired in June but he was reinstated a few days later. Less than a month after reinstatement, he was fired again.

DO YOU THINK JIMMY MANYI WILL STILL BE THE MK PARTY CHIEF WHIP BY THE END OF THE YEAR?

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In statement released on Thursday morning, Makhubele thanked the leadership of her South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA) but said MK Party would be the vehicle to bring about transformation in the country.

“My decision to join MK Party will only amplify the work we were doing in SARA, and I will ensure that I carry with me the values and ethics that bound us together,” Makhubele said.

Praising the MK Party as “beacon of hope to rally and unite African leaders”, she took a swipe at the ANC and other political parties constituting the so-called government of national unity (GNU).

“To the GNU ‘collaborators’ who are extremely excited by the never-imagined rare opportunity to govern with white supremacy in blue lights, the call for Africa is too daunting a task for you.”

Colleen Makhubele: COPE, SARA, now MK Party

Makhubele, who was speaker of the Johannesburg council between October 2022 and November 2023, started SARA in late 2023 after she was expelled from Congress of the People (COPE).

COPE fired her for allegedly establishing SARA without permission but she claims she was axed “because I had the courage to voice my ambitions”.

Starting SARA ahead of the 2024 elections, Makhubele aimed for a 1% share of the national electoral pie but South Africans rejected her party emphatically, give her 4,796 votes – a 0.03% share.

In Gauteng and Limpopo, the only two provinces SARA contested, the party garnered 0.07% and 0.05% of the vote respectively.

It is unclear if she also believes that the elections were rigged, as MK Party argues without evidence, but three days after the polls, she posted her appreciation for the support SARA received.

“Thank you to all our SARA voters, supporters, prayer warriors and friends,” she posted on X (Twitter).

Makhubele’s move to MK Party comes in the wake of other high-profile defections.

Two weeks ago, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) co-founder Floyd Shivambu quit the Red Berets to join the Zuma-led party.

Shivambu wished the EFF “full prosperity and success” as he exited the party to throw his lot in with MK Party. A week later, Shivambu was announced as the national organiser for South Africa’s third-largest party.

Zuma ally Mzwanele Manyi also quit the EFF, a party he joined in 2023. Manyi, formerly a member of the ANC, All Africa Decolonisation Congress, African Transformation Movement and recently EFF, is now the MK party’s chief whip in the National Assembly.

Do you think Makhubele will move the needle for MK Party?

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The three were sworn in alongside artist Eric “Penny Penny” Nkovane, former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) member Mzwanele Manyi, Zuma loyalist Thulani Gamede and Nompumelelo Gasa on Wednesday. 

CORRUPTION ACCUSED FORMER SOE CEOs JOIN MK PARTY

Brian Molefe has been involved with entities such as Telkom, the Airports Company of South Africa, the National Empowerment Fund, and the Export Credit Insurance Corporation. Brian was Chief Executive Officer of Transnet before his secondment as acting Chief Executive of Eskom in April 2015. He was appointed Group Chief Executive on 1 October 2015 and resigned in November 2016. 

As per Mail and Guardian, Molefe faces fraud, corruption, and money-laundering charges related to the inflated tender to procure 1 064 locomotives to upgrade the logistics company’s ageing fleet.

The Commission of inquiry into allegations of state capture found that Molefe was involved in the Gupta brothers looting Transnet coffers. He and former Transnet chief financial officer Anoj Singh are due back in court in October.

Likewise, Lucky Montana headed the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) between 2010 and 2015. He reportedly directed who should receive lucrative tenders.

On the other hand, Siyabonga Gama was arrested in 2022, along with three other former Transnet executives, and faces charges of corruption and money laundering.

The former executives are charged with contravening the Public Finance Management Act and fraud. The charges relate to millions of rand Transnet paid Trillian for organizing a R30 billion club loan to help buy 1,064 locomotives.

Lastly, Mzwanele Manyi, who recently ditched the EFF, has been appointed MK Party Chief Whip in Parliament. He takes over from Sihle Ngubane, who is now an ordinary MP.

Over the past five years, Manyi has moved through the ranks of five different political parties.

PARTY WELCOMES NEW MPs

The MK Party said the swearing in of the new members represents its leader Jacob Zuma’s commitment to assemble the most brilliant capable individuals in society.

Spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said undoubtedly, the new members have collective and individual capacities to gallantly lead South Africa and the continent into optimal prosperity.

“The MK Party is not only proud but we’re also confident that these leaders will bring about qualitative change to the lives of our people and nation,” he said.

DO YOU THINK THE NEWLY ELECTED MK PARTY MPs WILL FINISH THEIR TERMS IN PARLIAMENT?

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The motion set for Friday, 30 August, is sponsored by the African National Congress (ANC) which is reportedly considering forming a coalition with ActionSA.

ActionSA is part of the current multi-party coalition government in the metro. The ANC and ActionSA recently partnered in the City of Johannesburg, and this move saw Kabelo Gwamanda from Al Jama-ah removed as executive mayor and ActionSA caucus leader Nobuhle Mthembu elected speaker of the council.

TSHWANE MAYOR WANTS TO PREVENT OUSTING

In the court papers addressed to the speaker of council, Brink’s lawyers asked for the motion to be postponed arguing that he was not given enough time to respond.

“Our client cannot do so between the two days between when you gave him the notice and the council meeting.

“As the executive mayor, our client has the right to know the charges against him and a fair opportunity to take steps to defend himself adequately against them, which requires collecting and preparing evidence and submissions to the council.”

Earlier on Wednesday, political parties said they remain committed to the multi-party coalition and backed the Tshwane mayor.

Freedom Front Plus’ Grandi Theunissen pledged his party’s support and assured that said they remain fully committed to the coalition as the party has contributed a lot in the stabilisation of the metro.

“We are fully committed to remain here, to keep a stable coalition on its root. The root is to make sure that the service delivery in the city is on course,” he said.

Democratic Alliance (DA) spokesperson in Tshwane Kwena Moloto said the local working relationship between the DA, ActionSA, and other coalition partners remains strong.

Moloto said there was no indication from any party that they intended to disrupt this stability.

“Tshwane continues to serve as a beacon of hope for Gauteng residents, demonstrating that local government can be effective. We believe that no party would seek to undermine this stable and prosperous multi-party government only to open the doors for those who crippled Tshwane in the past,” she emphasised.

DO YOU THINK THE TSHWANE MAYOR WILL SUCCEED IN INTERDICTING HIS OUSTING?

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Mashaba’s sentiment comes as his party and the African National Congress (ANC) reportedly consider forming a coalition. The two parties recently partnered in the City of Johannesburg, and this move saw Kabelo Gwamanda from Al Jama-ah removed as executive mayor and ActionSA caucus leader Nobuhle Mthembu elected speaker of the council.

FUTURE OF TSHWANE MAYOR HANGING A BALANCE?

Since the 2016 local government elections, the City of Tshwane has been governed through a multiparty coalition. Since then, there have been five mayors and four were from the DA.

According to reports, Brink will be ousted via a motion of no confidence so that a new mayor can be elected to lead the metro. In order to achieve this, the ActionSA and ANC would have to rope in the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as the two do not have enough seats to govern on their own.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Brink said Mashaba has made a number of remarks that indicate that the party is considering some kind of a coalition with the ANC.

“We shouldn’t be worried given what our coalition has achieved, given the fact that nobody has withdrawn from the coalition agreement and that there is no outstanding dispute between the coalition parties. However, those statements from ActionSA are concerning,” he said.

Brink said they are concerned the most about the fact that ActionSA would have to rope in the EFF which then raises the spectre of the kind of chaos and mismanagement happening in Johannesburg.

Reacting to Brink’s sentiments, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said the DA will not prescribe to them who to coalesce with.

POLITICAL PARTIES BACK BRINK

During a media briefing on Wednesday, political parties said they remain committed to the multi-party coalition and backed the Tshwane mayor.

Freedom Front Plus’ Grandi Theunissen said they remain fully committed to the coalition as the party has contributed a lot in the metro.

“We are fully committed to remain here, to keep a stable coalition on its root. The root is to make sure that the service delivery in the city is on course,” he said.

DA spokesperson in Tshwane Kwena Moloto said the local working relationship between the DA, ActionSA, and other coalition partners remains strong.

Moloto said there was no indication from any party that they intended to disrupt this stability.

“Tshwane continues to serve as a beacon of hope for Gauteng residents, demonstrating that local government can be effective. We believe that no party would seek to undermine this stable and prosperous multi-party government only to open the doors for those who crippled Tshwane in the past,” she emphasised.

DO YOU THINK THE TSHWANE MAYOR WILL SURVIVE THE LOOMING NO CONFIDENCE MOTION?

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National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza presided over the ceremony, where Molefe and Gama – along with former Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa CEO Lucky Montana – took their oaths and swore to be “faithful to the Republic of South Africa”.

Molefe, Gama (both charged with State Capture-era corruption at Transnet) and Montana were joined by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) defector Mzwanele Manyi and musician Gezani Eric Kobane – popularly known as Papa Penny – in becoming new MK Party MPs.

Kobane was previously an ANC councillor, before leaving in May 2024 to join MK Party.

Manyi was an EFF MP until two weeks ago, when he quit the party to join the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party.

Sworn-in along with the cohort of MK Party MPs were two EFF members, namely Sinawo Thambo and Nazier Paulsen, who were filling the EFF seats left vacant by Manyi and Floyd Shivambu’s departures from the Red Berets.

The other MPs who were sworn in are:

• Thembinkosi Siboniso Mjadu (MK Party)
• Nompumelelo Matilda Gasa (MK Party)
• Thulani Innocent Gamede (MK Party)

Battles over MP positions in MK Party

The swearing in of the eight new MK Party MPs is certain to cause further ructions within the party.

Last week, 10 out of 18 fired MK Party MPs approached the Western Cape High Court on an urgent basis, in a bid to nullify their expulsions from the party and consequently, the National Assembly.

There were also asking the court to halt the swearing in of replacement MPs. The case was postponed to 3 September 2014.

The aggrieved MPs, who were fired on 7 August 2024, contend that their signatures were forged on the proffered resignation letters.

They claimed they were being muscled out in order for the MK Party to replace them with EFF defectors.

Molefe returns to Parliament

This is not Molefe’s first stint as an MP. He represented the ANC in the National Assembly for a little under three months in 2017, joining the House on 23 February and resigning on 12 May.

When he was sworn in 2017, he was filling in a vacancy as representative of the ANC from the North West but on Wednesday, he joined the National Assembly representing KwaZulu-Natal.

Similarly to Manyi, Molefe – who is also a former Eskom CEO – is now representing his second different political party in Parliament.

During her tenure as Polokwane municipality mayor, Simelane reportedly took a loan of R575 600 from Gundo Wealth Solutions, a corrupt brokerage investment company that facilitated connections and “investments” between municipalities, including the Polokwane Municipality, and VBS.

THEMBI SIMELANE’S ALLEGED LINKS TO VBS MUTUAL BANK

As previously reported, shortly after securing two deposits totalling R130 million from the Polokwane Municipality in October 2016, VBS reportedly sent Gundo Wealth Solutions owner Ralliom Razwinane a payment of R1.66 million, who then funnelled R575 600 to Simelane through a company named Ricovert, which owned the Silvanas Coffee Shop in Sandton at the time. 

Razwinane is currently on trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to the VBS saga.

On Wednesday, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa has requested a detailed report and briefing from Simelane on the matter.

POLITICAL PARTIES REACT

ActionSA has filed a complaint with the Public Protector against Simelane.

ActionSA caucus leader in Parliament Athol Trollip said they believe this is a clear case of an apparent conflict of interest, with the integrity of the justice system under her stewardship at stake.

Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has called for Simelane to resign.

The party said as mayor, Simelane played a pivotal role in enabling these unlawful deposits into VBS Mutual Bank—deposits that were part of a larger scheme involving multiple municipalities and state entities across South Africa.

The VBS scandal saw over R2 billion looted, devastating the lives of thousands of ordinary South Africans, many of whom lost their life savings in this fraudulent scheme.

“It has also been uncovered that Gundo Wealth Solutions was not a legitimate credit provider and had no legal basis to offer loans, exposing Simelane’s ‘commercial loan’ as a bribe thinly veiled as a business transaction. This scandal is not just a tale of financial mismanagement; it is a stark example of the rot within the ANC’s leadership,” the party said. 

The EFF further accused Simelane of exploiting her position for personal gain as she was entrusted with safeguarding public funds, yet she chose to engage in corrupt dealings. 

DO YOU THINK JUSTICE MINISTER THEMBI SIMELANE WILL STEP ASIDE FROM HER DUTIES?

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Maseko, along with eight other government officials, were suspended between 25 January 2022 and 1 February 2022, after a recommendation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report.

SIU recommendations

The SIU probed irregular procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) by the GDH during the National State of Disaster from various service providers.

The SIU recommended that disciplinary and criminal action be taken against three GDH officials, which include Maseko (who went by the name Goodhope, not Sifiso, at GDH), and six officials from the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID).

Charged and suspended, with full pay

Disciplinary charges against Maseko and the others were brought, over the flouting of procurement and contractor appointment regulations.

This was in relation to the AngloGold Ashanti Hospital refurbishment project in the West Rand, where the Gauteng government spent over R588 million, instead of the initially budgeted R50 million.

Maseko – the head of infrastructure development at GDH – and the others were then suspended but their disciplinary hearings are yet to conclude, meaning the MK Party chief has collected an approximate gross of R120,000 per month, for 36 months to date, without doing any work for the GDH. That amounts to over R4.3 million, conservatively tallied.

This was calculated at a provincial chief director’s package of around R1,436,022 per year, according to a senior HR official in government.

The practice of suspension, with full pay, has weighed heavily on taxpayers in recent years. In October 2023, The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) said there were 417 government officials on suspension with full pay, earning over R128 million with no work done.

This was up from 2022, when DPSA put the number of government officials sitting at home at 305.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s spokesperson, Vuyo Mhaga, confirmed the officials’ suspensions on full pay.

“The regulatory framework provides for the precautionary suspension of full pay pending the outcome of the hearing,” Mhaga told The South African.

Fortunately for taxpayers, he revealed that Maseko and the others’ disciplinary hearing was nearing finality.

“The hearing is in the last phase which requires parties to conclude on written submissions [arguments followed by an opportunity to refute arguments and finally the right to reply to new arguments], which commenced on 5 August 2024 and is anticipated to be concluded on 25 September 2024,” Mhaga said.

The chair of the disciplinary hearing will then issue a verdict, he added. While proceedings continue, Mhaga said GDH had already referred the case to law-enforcement authorities.

The report that triggered these suspensions came after the SIU was directed, under Proclamation R23 of 2020, by President Cyril Ramaphosa to probe allegations of corruption made by state institutions concerning PPE procurement and the conduct of state employees.

Sifiso Maseko, MK Party CEO

The secretary-general position in the MK Party, akin to other political parties, was described as the “chief executive officer of the organisation” during last Wednesday’s press conference, where leader and founder Jacob Zuma paraded the party’s top leadership.

Maseko is the MK Party’s fourth secretary-general since the organisation’s launch on 16 December 2023, coming after Arthur Zwane, Sihle Ngubane and Thanduxolo “Gorbachev” Dyodo.

Maseko is a qualified medical doctor, having obtained his MBChB degree from the University of Natal in 1994, according to the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

After a period in private practice, it seems he joined the public service. For a stint, he was deputy CEO of Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

He was later appointed acting CEO of Africa’s largest hospital, which lasted until he was “caught up in allegations of corruption and maladministration, leading to his departure”.

After the Baragwanath hospital spell, he was moved to the GDH as head of infrastructure in 2019, reportedly facilitated by then-Gauteng Health MEC Dr Bandile Masuku, until he was suspended in early 2022.

The South African asked MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela if they were aware of Maseko’s issues at the Gauteng Department of Health, and what view the party took in light of the its secretary-general being linked to allegations of financial misconduct. No response was received.

Maseko’s boss tumbles

Masuku, ironically, would be fired as health MEC in October 2020, 17 months into his tenure, by then-premier David Makhura.

He was dismissed after the SIU fingered him in Covid-19 tender irregularities and recommended that he be disciplined.

“There are issues before me as the head of the provincial government based on the SIU report that I must act on and it is on that basis that I have decided to discharge MEC Masuku as the MEC responsible for health in our province,” Makhura said at the time.

The South African asked MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela if they were aware of Maseko’s issues at the Gauteng Department of Health and what view does the party took in light of its secretary-general being linked to allegations of financial impropriety. No response was received.

Should Maseko and other suspended officials get their full pay? How about half?

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According to a Daily Maverick report, Simelane took a loan of R575 600 during her tenure as Polokwane municipality mayor, from Gundo Wealth Solutions. The corrupt investment brokerage was owned by Ralliom Razwinane, who is currently on trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to his role in facilitating connections and “investments” between municipalities, including the Polokwane Municipality, and VBS.

EFF CALLS FOR JUSTICE MINISTER TO RESIGN OVER VBS ALLEGATIONS

Shortly after securing two deposits totalling R130 million from the Polokwane Municipality in October 2016, VBS reportedly sent Razwinane a payment of R1.66 million, who then funnelled R575 600 to Simelane through a company named Ricovert, which owned the Silvanas Coffee Shop in Sandton at the time. 

The EFF said the funds Simelane received were corruptly syphoned from the very public coffers she was entrusted to protect. 

“As Mayor, Simelane played a pivotal role in enabling these unlawful deposits into VBS Mutual Bank—deposits that were part of a larger scheme involving multiple municipalities and state entities across South Africa. The VBS scandal saw over R2 billion looted, devastating the lives of thousands of ordinary South Africans, many of whom lost their life savings in this fraudulent scheme.

“Furthermore, it has also been uncovered that Gundo Wealth Solutions was not a legitimate credit provider and had no legal basis to offer loans, exposing Simelane’s ‘commercial loan’ as a bribe thinly veiled as a business transaction. This scandal is not just a tale of financial mismanagement; it is a stark example of the rot within the ANC’s leadership,” the party said. 

The EFF further accused Simelane of exploiting her position for personal gain as she was entrusted with safeguarding public funds, yet she chose to engage in corrupt dealings. 

‘A FLIMSY COVER-UP’

Additionally, the Red Berets said Simelane’s continued presence in her role threatens the integrity of the VBS investigations and undermines the pursuit of justice.

“Simelane’s attempts to dismiss her actions as a legitimate commercial transaction are a flimsy cover-up. Her failure to adequately address the conflict of interest, her role in facilitating these illegal investments, and her subsequent attempts to downplay her involvement indicate someone who cannot be trusted to oversee justice in our nation.”

Meanwhile, ActionSA has also filed a complaint with the Public Protector against Simelane.

 ActionSA caucus leader in Parliament Athol Trollip said they believe this is a clear case of an apparent conflict of interest, with the integrity of the justice system under her stewardship at stake.

Trollip said it is untenable that the very person entrusted with ensuring justice is upheld in South Africa may herself be compromised. This, in turn, casts a shadow over the National Prosecuting Authority’s ability to carry out its mandate impartially and without favour.

JULIUS MALEMA AND FLOYD SHIVAMBU ALSO IMPLICATED

In a witness statement made under oath, former VBS boss Tshifhiwa Matodzi revealed that he met with EFF leader Julius Malema and and his former deputy Floyd Shivambu in Sandton around April/May 2017.

“I then proposed that VBS can donate R5 million and R1 million per month to the EFF. I also made it clear that the amount could only be deposited into a VBS account and that the EFF should therefore open a bank account with VBS.

“At some stage Floyd indicated to me they have opened an account at VBS in the name of a company called Sgameka. A transfer of R5 million as promised was made on my instructions from Malibongwe to Sgameka on 8 June 2017. Subsequent payments were made to the Sgameka VBS account every month and were paid from Vele or any of Vele’s subsidiaries. Myself, Julius and Floyd understood that concept of donation to mean gratification hence Floyd and Julius did not provide me with EFF’s own banking details for these ‘donations’,” Matodzi explained.

Malema and Shivambu denied the allegations. However, the party’s former chairperson Dali Mpofu admitted that the two leaders did meet with Matodzi but disputed the fraud and corruption allegations.

DO YOU THINK JUSTICE MINISTER THEMBI SIMELANE WILL STEP ASIDE?

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According to a Daily Maverick report, Simelane took a loan of R575 600 during her tenure as Polokwane municipality mayor, from Gundo Wealth Solutions. The corrupt investment brokerage owned by Ralliom Razwinane, who is currently on trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to his role in facilitating connections and “investments” between municipalities, including the Polokwane Municipality, and the now defunct bank.

MALEMA ‘IMPLICATES’ JUSTICE MINISTER IN VBS BANK SAGA

According to the publication, VBS awarded Razwinane with kickbacks totalling R24.2 million for being a commissioning agent for various municipalities and state entities. Investigators found these to be corrupt transactions and contraventions of the Municipal Finance Management Act.

Further, the publication reported that between September 2016 and May 2017, Polokwane municipality made at least five unlawful deposits into VBS bank, totalling R349-million. Notably, unlike other municipalities which lost large amounts when VBS collapsed, the Polokwane municipality reportedly retrieved all its money.

In response, ActionSA caucus leader in Parliament Athol Trollip said they believe this is a clear case of an apparent conflict of interest, with the integrity of the justice system under her stewardship at stake.

Trollip said it is untenable that the very person entrusted with ensuring justice is upheld in South Africa may herself be compromised. This, in turn, casts a shadow over the National Prosecuting Authority’s ability to carry out its mandate impartially and without favour.

“ActionSA has therefore approached the Public Protector to initiate an urgent investigation into this matter and to probe the potential violation of the Executive Members’ Ethics Act. Given the implications for our justice system, we cannot afford to overlook this issue. Moreover, everyone involved in the looting of VBS Bank must be prosecuted, regardless of their political affiliation.

“Should the Public Protector conclude that there is sufficient evidence of wrongdoing, ActionSA will write to President Cyril Ramaphosa, requesting the immediate removal of Thembi Simelane as Justice Minister,” Trollip said.

MALEMA, SHIVAMBU, SACP, DONDO MOGAJANE AND ANC TOP BRASS AMONG THOSE IMPLICATED

In a witness statement made under oath, former VBS boss Tshifhiwa Matodzi claimed he paid former Treasury director-general Dondo Mogajane a R1 million bribe through a conduit in 2017, to get Treasury to back off from VBS.

Government had started circling, telling municipalities to stop depositing money at the now-defunct bank.

Matodzi claimed he held a series of meetings with Mogajane, where it was agreed that the former DG would “intervene” in the VBS-Treasury matter.

In his affidavit, Matodzi also revealed that he met with Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and and his then deputy Floyd Shivambu in Sandton around April/May 2017.

“I then proposed that VBS can donate R5 million and R1 million per month to the EFF. I also made it clear that the amount could only be deposited into a VBS account and that the EFF should therefore open a bank account with VBS.

“At some stage Floyd indicated to me they have opened an account at VBS in the name of a company called Sgameka. A transfer of R5 million as promised was made on my instructions from Malibongwe to Sgameka on 8 June 2017. Subsequent payments were made to the Sgameka VBS account every month and were paid from Vele or any of Vele’s subsidiaries. Myself, Julius and Floyd understood that concept of donation to mean gratification hence Floyd and Julius did not provide me with EFF’s own banking details for these ‘donations’,” Matodzi explained.

Former Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize and Gauteng MEC Jacob Mamabolo were also implicated in the corruption scandal.

DO YOU THINK JUSTICE MINISTER THEMBI SIMELANE WILL STEP DOWN FROM HER DUTIES?

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Ramokgopa points out issues

In a recent update on the Energy Action Plan (EAP), Minister Ramokgopa pointed out the problems with South Africa’s electricity pricing policy, as reported by My Broadband. Markedly, it is not the first time he has commented on these issues.

Ramokgopa emphasised the importance of reassessing the nation’s electricity pricing policy, especially as families face growing challenges from rising energy costs. Over the last 10 years, electricity rates have increased well beyond the general inflation rate. They have risen a significant five times since 2008.

Free electricity

The government has started a program to help low-income South African households by giving them free basic services, e.g. electricity, to ease the financial burden for them.

Poor households can receive 50 kWh of electricity each month at no cost. This amount is sufficient for essential needs. This includes basic lighting, heating water with a kettle, doing some ironing, and powering a small black-and-white TV and radio.

To qualify for this free electricity, households must be on the lifeline electricity tariff, registered as indigent, or qualify for a pensioner’s discount on service fees. Households with any municipal accounts in arrears will not qualify.

The issue is that many households do not receive this benefit despite qualifying for it.

Municipalities mismanage funds

According to Ramokgopa the problem lies with the execution, specifically execution at the level of municipalities, and not with funding.

“There is no reliable system that makes it possible to extend that benefit to households that qualify.”
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa

He added that in some cases, a system is in place, but its management is inefficient. In addition, he stated that the government must find a more reliable way to ensure households receive the free electricity benefit.

‘Municipalities receive these grants, but they misappropriate the money, redirecting it to other municipal expenses’, said Ramokgopa as reported by The Electricity Hub.

Are you aware of households that should be receiving this benefit but are not?

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Morero suggested that it will help solve language barriers between law enforcement officers and foreign nationals when arrested. 

PARTIES REJECT DADA MORERO’S JMPD PROPOSAL 

Addressing an ANC gathering Morero said hiring documented foreign nationals would assist law enforcement in dealing with language barriers when arresting other foreign nationals.

In a clip circulating on social media, Morero says, “Comrade chair, deputy chair, I always ask this question: Can none of our policemen and women in uniform speak any of the foreign African languages?”

“And the challenge is for us to deal with crime, and you can have all your suspects here before they write their statements; they can plan what they will say in front of you without you even hearing what they are saying.

“It might be a culture shock to suggest to this REC, but if we are serious about fighting crime in Ward 67, we have no option, but those properly documented with proper documents can be recruited to the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) ,” he said.

Reacting to the suggestion, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said Morero’s proposal is not only a capitulation to neoliberal ideology but a betrayal of the working class, particularly South Africa’s unemployed youth who continue to be relegated to the margins of economic and social life. 

The Red Berets said the latest data from Statistics SA reveal that the unemployment rate has increased to 32.9%, with youth unemployment soaring to 45.5%. 

“These figures reflect a systemic failure to harness the potential of millions of South Africans who are eager and willing to contribute to the prosperity and security of our nation. Instead of outsourcing jobs to foreign nationals, which only serves to deepen the crisis of unemployment and social inequality, the state must invest in developing its citizens,” the party said. 

Likewise, ActionSA also vehemently condemned Morero’s suggestion. 

ActionSA Gauteng leader Funzi Ngobeni said this will not happen. 

“JMPD must fight crime and arrest criminals. If these foreign criminals need translation, they will find that in court. This off-ramping of yours is worrying,” Ngobeni wrote on X. 

Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie said, “This will be the day hell freezes over. Many South Africans speak foreign languages, so why not offer them jobs?”

LESUFI SHOOTS DOWN SUGGESTION

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi also apologised for the confusion caused by Morero’s proposal and emphasised they do not agree with it.

“We held discussions with our Regional Chairperson and executive mayor Dada Morero who advised us that the ANC Johannesburg Lekgotla rejected his proposal and he fully accepts the decision not to entertain this proposal further. We remain committed to ensure that our law enforcement agencies are appropriately trained to tackle challenges created by crime. Our sincerest apologies for the confusion and pain caused by this proposal,” Lesufi wrote on X.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT DADA MORERO’S JMPD SUGGESTION?

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Madyo, suspended in August 2022, was accused of failing to oversee and prevent fruitless and wasteful expenditures. She was facing 13 misconduct charges concerning suspicious contracts that murdered whistleblower Babita Deokoran tried to stop at the Tembisa Hospital. 

DA SLAMS GAUTENG HEALTH FOR ACCEPTING LERATO MADYO’S RESIGNATION 

The South African previously reported that shortly before her death, Babita Deokaran flagged possibly fraudulent contracts worth R850 million and had asked for an audit, but Madyo did not do this. 

During the inquiry, Gauteng Health’s head of department, Sibongile Zungu, revealed that she wasn’t aware of any call for a probe into the fraudulent contracts at Tembisa Hospital. Surprisingly, Madyo indicated to Deokaran that she had escalated the matter and requested approval for an investigation.

A top ANC official in Gauteng, Sello Sekhokho, who was the ANC treasurer-general in Ekurhuleni at the time, was named in the corruption scandal.

Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko revealed that the party bigwig had 55 contracts with Tembisa Hospital, involving his three companies.

The companies provided cleaning products, PPE, office supplies, and even groceries. Moreover, Sekhokho doubled his haul in 2021 when the late Ashley Mthunzi was appointed CEO.

All individual payments between Tembisa Hospital and Sello Sekhokho were under R500 000. This means they didn’t have to be reviewed, and Mthunzi could approve the transaction himself.

‘PENSION SHOULD HAVE BEEN FROZEN’

DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC Jack Bloom said a probe by the Special Investigation Unity (SIU) revealed that the full scope of the corruption at Tembisa Hospital includes grossly overpriced contracts from shelf companies, amounting to about R3 billion syphoned off by criminal syndicates.

Bloom said he suspects that Gauteng Health deliberately delayed Lerato Madyo’s disciplinary process to protect others who were implicated. 

He said the department should not have accepted her resignation before it was concluded, and her pension should have been frozen to enable recovery of money that may be proven to have been lost because of her negligence.

“An aggravating factor is that Madyo was paid more than R3 million while suspended on full pay.

“The best legacy for Babita would be a wholly reformed Gauteng Health Department where corruption is eliminated. I believe the cover-up continues at this department, and whistleblowers like Babita would again be silenced,” Bloom said.

HAS JUSTICE BEEN SERVED FOR BABITA DEOAKARAN?

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On Thursday, MK Party held a press conference in Sandton, Johannesburg, where they paraded their leaders and gave South Africans some insight into the party’s machinery.

Since the party was launched in December 2023, it has been wracked by constant personnel changes, internally and in Parliament.

Now, the party has a top-eight leadership group, supported by what it calls a national high command, which has 45 additional members.

According to Zuma, there will not be an elective conference anytime soon, so the length of these leaders’ tenures is likely to depend on the whims of the former president.

Who are the MK Party leaders?

Jacob Zuma

Zuma is the president and the beneficial founder of MK Party.

Last month, the 82-year-old former ANC president was expelled from the liberation party after being found guilty of misconduct due to starting and campaigning for the MK Party, and eating away at the ANC’s voter base.

The corruption-accused Zuma was a member of the ANC for nearly 65 years, serving in various roles, including deputy secretary-general, national chairperson, deputy president and finally president.

He was president of South Africa from 2009 until he was recalled by the ANC in 2018.

John Hlophe

Hlophe is MK Party’s deputy president and leader of the party in Parliament, ostensibly because Zuma himself cannot be a member of the Parliament (MP), due to his contempt conviction.

Hlophe is a former jurist and until early this year, he was the Western Cape judge president.

On 6 March 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa formally removed Hlophe from the bench. This came after Hlophe was impeached by MPs in the National Assembly on 21 February 2024, becoming the first judge in democratic South Africa to be removed from office.

Hlophe was removed after MPs voted for his impeachment, emanating from a finding of guilty over gross judicial misconduct by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in 2021.

Hlophe now serves on the JSC, a decision that is being challenged in court.

Sifiso Maseko

Maseko is the secretary-general of MK Party, replacing Arthur Zwane as the organisation’s CEO. 

He is a medical doctor by profession and a former CEO of Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the largest in Africa, before being removed from the position over allegations of maladministration.

Maseko is also the former head of infrastructure at the Gauteng Department of Health.

Nombuso Mkhize

Mkhize is the MK Party’s deputy secretary-general.

Not much is known about her but a quick search revealed that she is a former Correctional Services official, serving as regional head for KwaZulu-Natal, according to her LinkedIn and Facebook pages.

It seems she has fully committed to the Zuma-led party, as she resigned from the department last month.

“Correctional Services is able to confirm that Nombuso Mkhize resigned on 24 July 2024,” Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo told The South African.

It is unclear if the resignation was immediate or if she is currently serving her notice.

Nathi Nhleko

Nhleko is MK Party’s national chairperson, after long stint in the ANC.

Nhleko, a former ANC national executive committee member, tendered his seven-page resignation letter on 4 March 2024.

“I resign from this African National Congress as its current values and principles are not aligned to mine,” Nhleko said in the letter.

He is a former ANC national executive committee member and served in Cabinet during Zuma’s presidency, first as minister of police between 26 May 2014 and 30 March 2017, then as public works minister from 31 March 2017 until 26 February 2018.

Known as the “fire pool minister”, he is infamous for his part in the Nkandla scandal, when Zuma used public funds to refurbish his personal home in rural KwaZulu-Natal.

Nhleko insisted in 2014 that a swimming pool dug at the Nkandla home, was actually a “fire pool”, for firefighting purposes.

Wilson Sebiloane

Sebiloane is Nhleko’s deputy in the MK Party.

He previously served in the ANC Johannesburg’s regional executive committee and was also a member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans’ Association, a disbanded structure of the ANC.

Sebiloane is a former MK operative, the ANC’s liberation army. He was granted amnesty by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission after being convicted of attempted murder “for injuring two policemen during a shootout in Johannesburg in 1991”.

In 2018, he was implicated in a “simulated” robbery scheme at Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), where security guards reportedly said they were carrying out Sebiloane’s orders when they faked a robbery.

Sebiloane was the Prasa’s business intelligence unit at the time.

Floyd Shivambu

Shivambu is the latest and most high-profile politician to join MK Party recently.

He is the party’s national organiser, after he defected from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) last week, where he was deputy president.

Shivambu, who has been implicated in the looting spree at VBS Mutual Bank, was praised by Zuma on Thursday as a consummate politician, saying the EFF co-founder was “honest and clear”.

Shivambu is also a former member of the ANC Youth League, where he was expelled in 2013.

“Mr Shivambu has made it his full-time job to undermine the organisation and its leadership. We have a warning to many others who might have ideas to follow the same anarchic line that we are not going to sit in our laurels and become spectators when they are blatantly undermining our organisation,” Youth League convenor Mzwandile Masina said at the time.

Menzi Magubane

Magubane is in charge of the party’s purse as treasurer-general, having replaced Danisa Zulu on 1 July 2024.

Do you think this leadership is able to stabilise MK Party?

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Last month, 82-year-old Zuma was expelled from the ANC after being found guilty of misconduct due to starting the MK Party and eating away at the ANC’s voter base.

He was a member of the party for nearly 65 years.

Jacob Zuma says new recruit Floyd Shivambu is a consummate politician, “honest and clear”.

When Shivambu was expelled from the ANC, along with EFF leader Julius Malema in 2013, Zuma was the president of the ANC.

MK Party leader Jacob Zuma says the media needs to congratulate the party for what it has achieved in its early stages – becoming South Africa’s third-biggest party – instead of focusing on its organisational shortcomings.

John Hlophe, MK Party deputy president, dismisses that notion that the MK Party recruited Floyd Shivambu to destroy the EFF.

“Floyd is sharp like a razor,” the former judge tells the media. Hlophe says Shivambu has been appointed national organiser “based on merit”.

“Fiefdoms of individuals.”

Shivambu takes a swipe at the EFF and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), implying that are they parties centred around personality cults.

EFF is led by Julius Malema and IFP was led for decades by the late Mangosuthu Buthelezi. It is now led by Velenkosini Hlabisa.

“The liberation movement no longer exists,” says Shivambu, referencing the ANC.

Shivambu is a former member of the ANC. He was expelled in 2013, along with EFF leader Julius Malema.

MK Party’s national high command is now taking questions from the media.

Nathi Nhleko has been announced as the MK Party’s national chairperson.

A former minister of police, he is widely known for his part in the “fire pool” saga that emanated from Zuma’s Nkandla upgrades, where state money was used to renovate the former president’s personal home.

Floyd Shivambu is the MK Party’s new national organiser. The former EFF deputy president left the Red Berets last week.

Other leaders are:

• Jacob Zuma – president
• John Hlophe – deputy president
• Sifiso Maseko – secretary-general
• Nombuso Mkhize – deputy secretary-general
• Nathi Nhleko – national chairperson
• Wilson Sebiloane deputy national chairperson
• Menzi Magubane – treasury-general

MK Party remains committed to working with the so-called Progressive Caucus in Parliament, as an opponent of the so-called government of national unity.

The caucus consists of MK Party, EFF, United Africans Transformation, African Transformation Movement and the National Coloured Congress

MK Party is not planning to hold elective conference, statement says, meaning leaders will be appointed by Jacob Zuma.

The party has been plagued by constant leadership changes since its formation in December 2023.

Last month, Arthur Zwane was fired as secretary-general, with Sifiso Maseko replacing him in the interim.

MK Party will have a top-eight leadership structure, along with 45 additional members.

The top eight leaderships positions are:

• President
• Deputy president
• Secretary-general
• Deputy secretary-general
• National chairperson
• Deputy national chairperson
• Treasury
• National organiser

An MK Party member is reading a statement supposedly penned by Jacob Zuma.

Part of it highlights that the party still believes, without evidence, that the 2024 elections were rigged.

However, they will still participate in Parliament, as their members deserve to be represented, says the member.

Proceedings have started in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Jacob Zuma is seen sitting next to John Hlophe, who has been announced as the uMkhonto weSizwe Party’s deputy president.

Hlophe, who was Western Cape judge president before being impeached, also serves as MK Party’s leader in Parliament.

Former president of South Africa and current uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma is addressing the media “regarding the current political situation and ongoing developments in South Africa”.

Zuma’s address comes after former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Floyd Shivambu defected to MK Party last week.

Shivambu was joined by former EFF MP Mzwanele Manyi in the move to Zuma’s party. Manyi’s move was unsurprising, as he had been moonlighting as spokesperson of the Jacob Zuma Foundation while being a member of the EFF.

And on Wednesday, 10 MPs – dismissed from the party to allegedly make way for new members to join Parliament – challenged their axing at the Western Cape High Court.

WATCH THE MK PARTY LEADER ZUMA’S ADDRESS LIVE BELOW

On Thursday morning, Kayser-Echeozonjoku – the DA caucus leader in the Johannesburg council – criticised Mthembu’s installation, saying her inexperience would not aid the city.

“I do think she is a bit inexperienced. I do think we’re going to see fractures in that relationship between them [ActionSA] and the ANC,” said Kayser-Echeozonjoku on Newzroom Afrika.

“The city needs experience.”

Mashaba slams DA’s ‘disrespect’

Mashaba has countered that this critique of Mthembu – ActionSA caucus leader in Johannesburg – as arrogant and disrespectful.

“They belief [sic] that they have the monopoly to decide who they partner with, including deciding for other political parties.

“It appears to me that they have no shame whatsoever to disrespect other people. Until they decide to humble themselves, they will learn the hard way,” Mashaba posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Mthembu officially replaced the African Independent Congress’s (AIC’s) Margaret Arnolds as speaker of the City of Johannesburg on Wednesday.

Mthembu (180 votes) beat the Democratic Alliance’s (DA’s) Nonhlanhla Sifumba (68 votes) to the position, who was nominated even though the DA wants the council to be dissolved and fresh elections held.

After the election, a triumphant ActionSA said Mthembu would work speedily to restore governance.

“The urgent work of stabilising the City of Johannesburg, restoring good governance and effective service delivery in the province now begins. Councillor Mthembu brings much-needed experience to this position that we will use to hold the CoJ administration to account,” read a statement on X (Twitter).

Mthembu’s election to head the city’s council concluded weeks of back-and-forth deals between the ANC, ActionSA and other parties, bar the Freedom Front Plus and the DA.

ActionSA set to punish DA in Tshwane

Mashaba’s statement that the DA “will learn the hard way” could be an early warning as tensions build in the City of Tshwane.

The ActionSA-ANC collaboration looks set to make changes in Tshwane, with Mashaba confirming on Wednesday that talks have started regarding the removal of mayor Cilliers Brink.

“I can confirm that discussions are underway [regarding a motion to remove Brink as Tshwane mayor]. We are consulting our structures on the ground,” Mashaba told eNCA

“Negotiations are underway” with the ANC on which party will get which position in Tshwane, Mashaba added.

Mthembu’s election follows the resignation of former Speaker Margaret Arnolds, who stepped down after being appointed as the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Finance by newly elected Mayor Dada Morero.

Mthembu’s appointment as speaker marks a significant moment for Johannesburg, as she steps into a role critical for guiding the city’s legislative processes and ensuring accountability within the Council. Her election has been widely supported by the governing coalition, who believe her leadership will be instrumental in addressing the city’s many challenges.

Nobuhle Mthembu: A proven advocate for residents

Born on June 14, 1987, Mthembu has spent the past several years solidifying her reputation as a dedicated public servant. With a BCom degree in Taxation, she brings both academic and practical expertise to her political roles. Additionally, her career in the Johannesburg Council includes a tenure on the Section 79 Committee on Human Settlements, where she played a key role in addressing housing issues.

Mthembu’s leadership style is both proactive and solution driven. As ActionSA’s Caucus Leader, she has been a vocal critic of administrative inefficiencies that have plagued Johannesburg, from the tragic Usindiso fire to the persistent water crisis.

“We must hold those in power accountable,” she has said, underscoring her commitment to protecting the city’s residents.

Furthermore, her stance against the controversial R200 surcharge imposed on Johannesburg’s residents is a prime example of her advocacy.

She argued that the surcharge was “a burden on an already overstretched population,” and she led efforts to push back against it, reflecting her focus on the welfare of the city’s inhabitants.

Continuing a legacy of strong leadership

As Speaker, Mthembu follows in the footsteps of several notable predecessors who have shaped the Johannesburg Council over the years.

In August 2016, Vasco Da Gama was elected as the Council Speaker, representing the Democratic Alliance (DA).

However, in December 2019, he was removed from this position and replaced by Nonceba Molwele from the African National Congress (ANC).

Following the 2021 local government elections, Da Gama was once again put forward by the DA as their candidate for Council Speaker.

He was re-elected to the position during the inaugural council meeting on 22 November 2021. His tenure was succeeded by Colleen Makhubele from the Congress of the People (COPE), who served from September 2022 until 2023.

Most recently, Margaret Arnolds of the African Independent Congress (AIC) held the position in 2023 until the recent transition.

What are your thoughts on the impact Mthembu will have as Speaker?

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Simelane was paying tribute on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the farewell dinner of outgoing Chief Justice Zondo in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, on Tuesday night.

Zondo is retiring at the end of August 2024 after a distinguished judicial career spanning 27 years. 

Raymond Zondo ‘has served the cause’

During his term, Zondo has been pivotal in advancing the transformation of the judiciary, leading the Labour Appeal Court through significant challenges, and presiding over the State Capture Commission. 

“Tonight, we honour a person who possesses all the virtues demanded of a judge as foretold by the ancients. A man of wisdom, tempered by experience. A man of unwavering principle and integrity. A man of humility and courage.

“Chief Justice Zondo has served the cause of justice over a long and illustrious career. He led the Constitutional Court at an important time in our democracy,” the Minister said.

Simelane praised Raymond Zondo for leading the State Capture Commission as the country tried to uphold the rule of law. 

“This was a task which he undertook with dignity, with fairness and with integrity. The work of what is now known as the Zondo Commission remains integral to our efforts to rebuild our country in the wake of one of the most shameful periods in our democratic history.

“The Zondo Commission was an affirmation of our constitutional order, the rule of law and the strength of our institutions. The Commission did much more than reveal – in painstaking detail – the extent and nature of state capture,” she said. 

The Minister added that the Commission began to restore society’s confidence in its ability to correct mistakes and to hold those responsible for wrongdoing to account.

“History will record that Chief Justice Zondo fulfilled his assigned responsibility with wisdom and diligence. But more than that. History will record that Chief Justice Zondo established a standard for probity in public affairs that will serve our country for many years to come,” the Minister said.

Recommendations

Simelane told the gathering that it was a great honour to pay tribute to a distinguished jurist and a dedicated champion of our democratic constitutional order.

“Through the service he has rendered the nation, through his conduct and his demeanour, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo has earned the admiration, respect and gratitude of all South Africans,” she said.

Simelane added that the government’s task now is to follow in Zondo’s direction.

She highlighted that already, the government has done much to implement the recommendations of the commission.

“To ensure that our country may never again experience state capture, we have introduced and enacted legislation in critical areas such as public procurement, criminal justice, public administration and others.

“The law enforcement agencies have made important progress in investigating and prosecuting alleged perpetrators and have begun to recover stolen funds.

“As we continue and intensify this work, we are duty bound to entrench in all areas of public life the ethical standards that the Zondo Commission has helped to define,” she said.

Simelane wished Chief Justice Raymond Zondo the very best upon his retirement.

“The nation thanks you for your service. The bench, the legal fraternity and our country is all the richer for your contribution. 

“We are confident that your important voice and wise counsel will not be lost to us in this new era in the life of our country,” the Minister said.

Mthembu (180 votes) beat the Democratic Alliance’s (DA’s) Nonhlanhla Sifumba (68 votes) to the position, who was nominated even though the DA wants the council to be dissolved and fresh elections held.

The newly elected speaker said she would work with the city’s executive to:

• Resolve the billing crisis
• Rejuvenate the inner city
• Tackle corruption and wastefulness
• Enforce city by-laws to prevent illegal trading and dumping

A triumphant ActionSA added that Mthembu would work speedily to restore governance.

“The urgent work of stabilising the City of Johannesburg, restoring good governance and effective service delivery in the province now begins. Councillor Mthembu brings much-needed experience to this position that we will use to hold the CoJ administration to account,” read a statement on X (Twitter).

Mthembu’s election to head the city’s council concludes weeks of back-and-forth deals between the ANC, ActionSA and other parties, bar the Freedom Front Plus and the DA.

Nobuhle Mthembu: Speaker steps in after backroom deals

The first of these deals was put in place last Friday when the ANC’s Dada Morero replaced Al Jama-ah Kabelo Gwamanda as mayor.

Morero then announced new members of the mayoral committee (MMCs), which included Arnolds being the new MMC for finance, Morero’s former position, while Gwamanda was given the community development portfolio.

Arnolds was Johannesburg speaker for under a year, after she replaced Colleen Makhubele on 21 November. Makhubele was removed after her then-party, Congress of the People, terminated her membership on 14 November 2023.

Mthembu is ActionSA’s caucus leader in the Johannesburg council and she was a shoo-in for the position, due to ANC (91) and ActionSA (44) having 135 of the council’s 270 seats.

The one extra needed could come from any of the parties (Economic Freedom Fighters, Patriotic Alliance, Al Jama-ah and others such as AIC) forming the so-called government of local unity.

ANC-ActionSA collaboration in the city

The ANC-ActionSA tie-up came as a surprise to many, due to the latter party’s leader Herman Mashaba previously claiming vowing to never work with the liberation party.

“The ANC, EFF and the MK [uMkhonto weSizwe Party] – those are the parties, for us as ActionSA, we will never work with those parties,” Mashaba said in June 2024.

Last month, in an about-turn, he defended the decision to work with the “criminal enterprise” ANC as the being in the interest of Gauteng residents.

“Yes, absolutely, I am really talking to the ANC to see how we can best stabilise the metros of Gauteng, because it’s really very critical,” Mashaba said on the sidelines of the Opening of Parliament in Cape Town.

Yengeni, who also served as the ANC’s chief whip in the National Assembly from 1998 to 2001, simply remarked: “Good riddance.”

He added another comment, stating: “Africa is cursed with substandard leaders who pander to their erstwhile colonial masters.”

Yengeni, who resigned from legislative politics after a 2003 fraud conviction, has remained a vocal figure within certain ANC circles. His recent comments reflect his continued engagement with the country’s political and judicial developments.

Zuma’s disciplinary woes and Yengeni’s Role

In another twist, Yengeni has also made headlines for his involvement in former president Jacob Zuma’s disciplinary battles with the ANC. He was chosen by Zuma to represent him during the party’s disciplinary hearings, Yengeni’s role underscoring the enduring alliance between the two figures.

Zuma, who was expelled from the ANC in July 2024, following his suspension earlier in the year, now leads South Africa’s third-biggest political party: uMkhonto weSizwe Party.

The ANC’s national disciplinary committee found Zuma guilty on two charges of misconduct, leading to his expulsion. According to The Mercury, Zuma’s failure to appeal the decision within the stipulated 21 days cemented his departure from the party. The ANC confirmed his expulsion, marking the end of an era for the former president within the party.

Yengeni’s involvement in Zuma’s defence illustrates his continued influence within certain factions of the ANC.

Final days as chief justice

Meanwhile, Chief Justice Raymond Zondo is set to retire at the end of August, concluding a 12-year term as a ConCourt justice.

Appointed as chief justice by President Cyril Ramaphosa in April 2022, Zondo’s tenure has been marked by significant legal battles and national scrutiny. His appointment as a ConCourt justice by then-president Zuma in 2012 and subsequent promotion to deputy chief justice highlight a storied judicial career.

Zondo’s retirement coincides with a period of political transition in South Africa, as the country recently elected a new Parliament in May 2024.

The judiciary honoured Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on 20 August with a special farewell dinner in Johannesburg, where his predecessor Mogoeng Mogoeng and other colleagues spoke glowingly about him.

President Cyril Ramaphosa was also due to speak at the occasion but could not honour the invite after contracting an eye infection. Instead, he sent Justice Minister Thembi Simelane in his place.

On Wednesday morning, a special ConCourt session was held, where he delivered his last judgment before he bows out.

How will Zondo’s departure impact South Africa’s judiciary?

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On Monday evening, Malema castigated certain members, without naming them, as being silent during a pivotal moment for the party, in light of former deputy president Floyd Shivambu and EFF MP Mzwanele Manyi leaving the organisation last Thursday for uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.

“Where are their voices when our movement is under attack?” Malema asked.

But on Tuesday evening, Mente moved to pledge her allegiance to the party.

Mente remains member of the EFF

“My membership [of the EFF] was renewed on the 17th of July,” Mente said on Metro FM.

Mente also poured cold water on perceptions that the party was in crisis mode, triggered by their underwhelming 2024 elections performance, and now exacerbated by Shivambu’s defection to the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party.

“The EFF is going nowhere. The EFF is here to stay.

“People are using this moment to try and create a crisis moment. There is no crisis,” Mente said.

Asked by a caller if she would be throwing her hat into the ring for the vacated position of deputy president come the EFF’s National People’s Assembly elective conference in December, Mente was coy.

“We have not discussed issues of positions,” she responded, directing the conversation to the EFF’s stability.

“EFF is going to come out of December solid.”

Malema to EFF members flirting with MK Party: ‘Leave now!’

Part of Malema’s address to EFF Gauteng members on Monday was aimed at senior members, thought to be Mente, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and others.

He said these members were biding their time until the party’s December conference before deciding whether to follow Shivambu to the MK Party or not.

“Many of them are opportunistic, because they want to see whether they will emerge in the upcoming third National People’s Assembly, before they decide whether they will remain in the EFF or not,” Malema said.

Malema beckoned these unnamed party members to quit the EFF immediately, saying “nothing is going to change between now and December”.

“Leave now!” he said to rousing applause.

Rumours of an exodus to Zuma’s MK Party

Last Thursday morning, after the EFF called an urgent press conference but before Shivambu confirmed his departure, rumours started swirling that Ndlozi and Mente would be following Shivambu out of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House, the party headquarters in Johannesburg.

Newzroom Afrika, citing sources, reported on the possible exit of former EFF spokesperson Ndlozi and Mente, both EFF MPs.

In contrast, EFF MPs Busisiwe Mkhwebane and Carl Niehaus quickly dismissed rumours of their impending defections to the MK Party.

Mkhwebane confirmed that she had not resigned the Malema-led EFF, calling such rumours “fake news”.

“Rumours by SABC News about me leaving EFF are fake news. I will never betray the fighters – my political home,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Interestingly, Mkhwebane has spousal ties to MK Party. Her husband, David Skosana, is an MP for the Zuma-led party.

Niehaus also dismissed any talk of an exit.

He also said SABC News was spreading “fake news” and demanded that they issue a correction and apology for their report.

“I remain a loyal member of the EFF and have absolutely no reason or intention to leave my party,” Niehaus wrote on X.

Niehaus was once a fierce Zuma ally, even expressing sadness when the former president was imprisoned in 2021 for contempt.

Niehaus would later be arrested on live TV for breaking lockdown rules when he addressed a gathering outside the Estcourt prison where Zuma was held.

Ndlozi’s EFF future

As of Tuesday evening, Ndlozi’s future in the EFF was seemingly still in the air, even though he was pictured at the EFF headquarters on Monday afternoon.

Last month, Ndlozi was touted as a possible candidate to replace Marshall Dlamini as the EFF’s secretary-general, when party delegates gather for its elective conference in December.

“I think I must convene a meeting of all former presidents of EFFSC, including the current one. We must have a view on the EFF national people assembly. I will persuade them, if they agree, that a character like Mbuyiseni must come as an SG,” said former EFF Student Command president Mpho Morolane in July 2024.

Now two years later, Zondo is vacating the office – effective 31 August 2024 – after serving a non-renewable term of 12 years on Constitutional Court bench, as per the South African Constitution.

Zondo will be replaced by current Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, who was appointed by Ramaphosa last month.

From 1 September 2024, Maya will begin her role as the first black woman to fill the chief justice seat.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT RAYMOND ZONDO

The outgoing chief justice was thrust into the limelight when he was appointed chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, colloquial known as the Zondo Commission.

Here is brief outline of the jurist’s life:

• Raymond Mnyamezeli Zondo was born at Ixopo, KwaZulu-Natal. He is married and he and his wife have been blessed with four children.
• The 63-year-old obtained his secondary and high school education at St Mary’s Seminary at Ixopo, where he matriculated. 
• He holds a BJuris degree from the University of Zululand and obtained his LLB from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He also holds an LLM (cum laude) from the University of South Africa and another with a specialisation in commercial law.
• Justice Zondo was first appointed as a judge of the Labour Court in 1997 and was Judge President of the Labour and Labour Appeals courts between 2000 and 2010. 
• He has been a judge of the Constitutional Court since 2012 and was appointed as Deputy Chief Justice in 2017. 
• In March 2011 Justice Zondo was honoured by the KZN Legal Forum, consisting of many legal bodies, with an award for his contribution to human rights in South Africa.  
• In January 2018, then-president Jacob Zuma appointed Zondo as the chair of the State Capture Commission. Zondo was recommended by then Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, as ordered by previous Public Protector Thuli Madonsela in her report, State of Capture, released in October 2016.

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This demand follows Lesufi’s remarks during his recent State of the Province Address (SOPA), where he said lifestyle audits for all heads of departments and CEOs of Gauteng provincial government agencies had been finalised.

DA demands accountability

Lesufi disclosed that he had received a report from the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and plans to meet with the SIU to receive a full briefing on the matter. The DA, however, insists that the public has a right to know the outcomes of these audits.

“If Premier Lesufi has nothing to hide or is not shielding anyone, he must do the right thing and make the lifestyle audits public,” the DA stated.

The party argues that repeated delays in releasing audit results hinder economic growth in the province. Investors need assurance that the Gauteng government is committed to transparency and creating a favourable environment for business and job creation.

The DA’s statement added: “Enough with delays, as this will hamper the growth of this province’s economy.”

Questioning MEC Integrity

Beyond transparency, the DA also demands clarity on actions to be taken against any MECs or officials found living beyond their means.

“We cannot have a situation where officials and MECs, despite not passing the lifestyle audit, are kept in their positions because of cadre deployment,” the DA asserted.

They emphasise the importance of public accountability and argue that officials unfit for their roles should be removed to restore public confidence.

The DA also called for the performance agreements of MECs to be made public, allowing citizens to hold these officials accountable for their duties. In a pointed critique of the current administration, the DA claims that under its governance, regular lifestyle audits would be conducted, with the results made available to the public.

“By doing so, the residents of this province will receive the service delivery they deserve,” the DA declared.

According to SABC News, speaking at the SOPA Premier Lesufi emphasised that the report from the SIU would be made public.

“I will brief the people of Gauteng further on this report, and we are prepared to also release the report,” he stated.

As pressure mounts, The South African attempted to reach out to Lesufi’s spokesperson for comment, but there was no response at the time of publishing.

Will Premier Lesufi act on his promise of accountability and release the audit results?

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In an interview with Newzroom Afrika on Monday night, Nciza emphasised that the ANC was facing serious challenges, not only in Gauteng but across the entire country.

“We have lost a serious percentage,” Nciza stated, reflecting on the ANC’s declining support in Gauteng. He acknowledged the party’s defeat.

Nciza’s remarks signal a shift in the ANC’s narrative. In the past, the party maintained that it had not entirely lost its grip, despite failing to secure 50% of the vote. However, Nciza now concedes that the ANC is facing a crisis of confidence and is in dire need of revitalization.

“We are on our way to recover,” he assured, stressing the importance of critical and honest discussions within the party to rebuild and strengthen the organisation.

ANC electoral decline: 2019 vs. 2024 in Gauteng

The ANC’s challenges have been starkly reflected in its electoral performance in Gauteng. In the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, the ANC managed to secure 50.19% of the vote in Gauteng, allowing it to maintain a majority in the province. However, the 2024 general elections revealed a significant drop in support, with the ANC garnering only 36.49% of the vote. This decline marks the lowest level of support the ANC has received in Gauteng since the advent of democracy in South Africa.

The results indicate a dramatic loss of confidence among Gauteng voters, underscoring the urgency for the ANC to address its internal weaknesses.

Challenges of factionalism and slate politics

One of the most significant issues contributing to the ANC’s decline, according to Nciza, is the prevalence of factionalism and slate politics within the party. These internal conflicts have weakened the ANC’s branches and diminished its ability to function effectively as a unified organisation.

“Slate politics has crossed the ANC a lot,” Nciza admitted, lamenting that capable comrades have been sidelined due to factional disputes.

Nciza highlighted the need for a system that addresses leadership elections differently, suggesting that the current approach has exacerbated divisions within the party. He called for a focus on building strong, loyal branches that understand the ANC’s mission and values.

“We want to build branches on the ground, look for quality members, and bring back activists,” he said, emphasising the need for political education and a return to the grassroots level of organising.

Rebuilding trust and service delivery

As the ANC prepares for the future, Nciza stressed the importance of rebuilding trust with the Gauteng electorate. He acknowledged that the ANC has been accused of failing to deliver services, particularly at the local government level, where many ANC councillors have been criticised for non-performance. Nciza argued that the party must prioritise service delivery to regain the confidence of the people.

“We are making sure that we have engagement with all parties so that we can deliver services for people,” he said.

Looking ahead, the ANC faces the daunting task of regaining its former dominance in Gauteng. The party’s leadership acknowledges the challenges but remains committed to reforming and revitalising its structures.

As Nciza puts it, “We must turn the tide and make sure that our people feel serviced by the organisation they believe in.”

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This was meant to be his first sit-down interview with the media since the formation of the so-called government of national unity executive on 30 June 2024.

Ramaphosa interview cancelled

Unfortunately, an eye infection has led to a postponement but Ramaphosa is still keen to conduct the interview, SABC News political editor Mzwandile Mbeje said on Tuesday afternoon.

Ramaphosa was expected to ventilate plans of the seventh administration, including accelerating economic growth, service delivery, foreign policy and the scourge of crime, among other issues.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika’s Ziyanda Ngcobo after the postponement, Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the president’s eye would not be suitable for a TV interview.

“The eye infection is quite bad and it would not look good on television to appear with an eye like that,” Magwenya said.

The interviews were supposed to take place at Mahlamba Ndlopfu presidential residence in Tshwane.

Ramaphosa still ‘fit as a fiddle’?

In January this year, there were rumours that Ramaphosa was unwell after he missed some events during the ANC’s 112th birthday celebrations in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.

However, the Ramaphosa quashed the murmurs, saying he was preserving his energies ahead of a gruelling itinerary.

“I had meetings, then I continued working at home, clearly on the instructions of the officials, saying that ‘we want you to be well preserved because the next six days will be very vigorous for you as a president’,” Ramaphosa said at the time.

“So the news of my illness and the news that I was in ICU are extremely exaggerated; I am fit as a fiddle, I have no illness whatsoever, I didn’t collapse.”

Covid-19 diagnosis

Ramaphosa rarely gets struck down by illness, at least publicly, except in December 2021 when he was diagnosed with Covid-19.

According to the Presidency at the time, Ramaphosa started feeling unwell after leaving the memorial service of apartheid-era president FW de Klerk in Cape Town.

“The president is in good spirits but is being monitored by the South African Military Health Service of the South African National Defence Force.
 
“The president, who is fully vaccinated, is in self-isolation in Cape Town and has delegated all responsibilities to Deputy President David Mabuza for the next week,” the Presidency said at the time.

The beauty queen – whose father is Nigerian and her mother allegedly Mozambican – came under fire from many South Africans who questioned her citizenship.

After stepping down from the local pageant, Chidimma was invited to participate in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, which she has since accepted.

Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs is continuing an investigation into her mother, who is accused of committing fraud and identity theft.

MALEMA’S RANT SLAMS CHIDIMMA CRITICS

In a heated two-hour rant on Monday, 19 August, Malema addressed a crowd of supporters in Orlando Stadium. The outspoken EFF leader used the opportunity to throw shade at multiple individuals, including recently resigned Floyd Shivambu, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s wife Mmabatho Montsho, and anonymous X “whistleblower” Goolam MV.

Malema – who is pro-open borders – also lashed out at “social media commentators”, some even in the EFF, who had criticised Chidimma Adetshina.

He said: “All of you went into a cocoon because you responded on that view that said you must hate this black child.

“Your position on that girl was necessitated by the fact that an African child was under attack.

“You chose to fight an African child in favour of a white person [Miss SA 2024 winner Mia Le Roux]”.

Malema has previously defended Chidimma during an interview on an EFF podcast earlier this month.

Defending the former Miss SA finalist, Malema said, “Your citizenship is determined by where you were born. So, if she was born here, she is South African. It doesn’t matter. She is not her parents; she is herself. So why do you say she’s from Nigeria or she’s from Mozambique? She was born here.

“We cannot punish people on the basis of where their parents come from.”

MISS UNIVERSE NIGERIA BOSS CHASTISES GOVERNMENT

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Nigeria boss Guy Murray-Bruce has criticised the South African government for “victimising” Chidimma Adetshina.

Speaking to the Nigerian Arise News TV channel, he said: “We don’t have xenophobia in Nigeria. We don’t practice that here. Why do they want to practice that there in South Africa?

“It had nothing to do with Miss South Africa, it had to do with the government. The government were the ones after her..they were not nice towards her.

“Nigeria is a united nation, we care for one another. We look out for our brothers and sisters, no matter where they are. That’s what we stand for. We’re bringing a girl from the pits into Nigeria.”

DID SOUTH AFRICANS AND GOVERNMENT HARSHLY CHASTISE CHIDIMMA?

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Swift has not yet publicly thrown her weight behind any presidential candidate in the November 5 election, but she backed President Joe Biden in 2020 and has previously been critical of Trump.

‘Swifties’

On Sunday, Trump shared screenshots of posts with manipulated images – including some that an expert said appeared to be AI-generated – suggesting that the pop star and her fans, popularly known as Swifties, support his campaign.

In a post on his social media site Truth Social, which included an image of Swift clad in an Uncle Sam outfit and instructing her fans to vote for Donald Trump, the former president wrote: “I accept!”

That image, in the style of a poster, was either “AI-generated or just classically manipulated,” Hany Farid, a digital forensics expert at the University of California, Berkeley, told AFP.

The post also includes photos of women wearing shirts with the slogan “Swifties for Trump,” some of which Farid said had the “tell-tale signs of being AI-generated.”

What makes the mash-up “particularly devious” is its combination of real and fake imagery, with at least one photo of a woman wearing such a shirt looking legitimate, Farid said.

No comment from Taylor Swift

There was no immediate comment from Swift about the post by Trump, who separately shared on Truth Social a video of a supporter voicing the dubious claim that “Swifties were rallying for Trump.”

“You’re going to let this go uncorrected?” A.J. Delgado, a former advisor to the Trump campaign in 2016, wrote in a post on the platform X that was addressed to the singer’s publicist.

Donald Trump’s post also drew online mockery and scorn from the singer’s fans, some of whom called on her to take legal action against the former president.

Swift’s massive popularity and sway over her fans could make her support valuable in the upcoming US presidential election.

Both Republicans and Democrats have long wanted her support, but the megastar has been largely reticent about her political leanings.

In a demonstration of her star power, when Swift encouraged her fans to register to vote last fall, directing them to the nonpartisan nonprofit Vote.org, her plea had an immediate impact.

Following her message, the institution said it recorded more than 35 000 new registrations, 23 percent more than last year and the most since 2020.

Broke her silence

Swift’s feelers into politics have been heavily scrutinised, making her a ripe target for political misinformation and right-wing conspiracy theories.

Her reserve led many critics to speculate Swift was a closet Republican, until 2018, when she broke both her silence and the internet by endorsing the Democratic opponent of far-right US Senator Marsha Blackburn in Tennessee.

She has since spoken out in particular for the legal right to an abortion and LGBTQ rights.

In recent weeks, intense speculation has swirled on social media that Swift will endorse Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in the November election.

The megastar has not commented publicly, but that has not stopped legions of fans from forming a group called “Swifties for Kamala,” attracting tens of thousands of followers on platforms including Instagram and X.

In recent months, a tide of AI-fueled political disinformation has prompted alarm over its potential to manipulate voters as the presidential race heats up.

“No one is immune to AI’s harms, not even Taylor Swift,” said the campaign group Accountable Tech.

“Without urgent intervention, it’ll only get worse.”

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

Malema also announced that Sinawo Thambo would take over former EFF chief whip Shivambu’s seat in the Parliament.

“We love the youth so Floyd Shivambu shall be replaced by Sinawo Thambo in Parliament, as a member of Parliament [MP] of the Republic of South Africa,” Malema told EFF supporters.

The EFF leader was speaking to party members at a Gauteng Provincial Ground Forces Forum on Monday evening, held at Orlando Community Hall in Soweto.

Manyi and Shivambu replaced

Malema also told party members that Nazier Paulsen, a Western Cape leader of the party and former MP, would replace Mzwanele Manyi as an EFF parliamentarian.

Manyi and Shivambu both left the Red Berets to join Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto (MK) weSizwe Party. The departures were announced during an emergency press conference held last Thursday at the EFF headquarters in Johannesburg.

Manyi, who joined the EFF in May 2023, is the spokesperson of the Jacob Zuma Foundation so the defection was not completely unexpected.

Shivambu, who was the party deputy president, read his resignation letter to reporters gathered at Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House during a sombre occasion.

“I wish the EFF full prosperity and success, and wish that all commissars and ground forces will accept the very difficult decision I have taken,” Shivambu read from the letter.

Immediately after Shivambu read the letter, a visibly dejected Malema spoke of his sadness at the departure of his long-time ally and co-founder of the EFF.

“When he sent me a letter yesterday, I felt the same pain when I received the news of the passing away of my mother because Floyd to me is not just a comrade. He is a brother, and he will remain a brother even when he pursues his political career differently,” Malema said to reporters.

No more crying for Shivambu, says Malema

However, on Monday, Malema told EFF members that the time for sadness was over and that they needed to focus on growing the party after the decline suffered during the 2024 elections.

“The mourning period is over!” Malema said to applause.

Malema also announced that he was absorbing the functions of the newly vacated deputy’s president’s office into his own duties. The deputy president’s office was tasked with deployments into state structures under the party’s government task unit, he said.

“All powers that belong to the deputy president will go into the office of the president and everything else that looks like the former deputy president shall be dismantled and gotten rid off with immediate effect,” Malema said.

Last week, Malema said the party would not be installing an interim deputy president, considering the party would be electing new leaders at its National People’s Assembly conference in December 2024.

“Research suggests that SA’s green ID book is the most defrauded in Africa, with identity theft costing our country north of R1.5 billion per year.

“If you want to fight fraud and corruption while protecting your family, switch to a smart ID card before criminals steal your life,” Schreiber posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday afternoon.

Home Affairs goes on an ID-blocking spree

Schreiber’s warning comes as the department disqualifies identity documents (IDs) it flags as fraudulent.

Last Friday, Home Affairs announced that it would be blocking dodgy IDs, urging South Africans to provide reasons within 30 days why their IDs should not be permanently cancelled.

“Through this move, Home Affairs aims to both resolve the decades-old issue of wrongfully blocked IDs while reducing the number of fraudulent documents in circulation.

“Some documents were originally blocked as far back as 2005 for a range of reasons, including because the biometric system flagged the documents as duplicates, held by illegal immigrants or because the ID holder had passed away,” Home Affairs said.

Schreiber hits the ground running

Schreiber has been on an aggressive clean-up drive of Home Affairs since being appointed minister as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s so-called government of national unity.

Since joining Ramaphosa’s executive on 30 June 2024, Schreiber has – amonng other initiatives – moved to alleviate the country’s visa backlog, saying it was “abnormal“.

Last month, the backlog was cut by 92,886 applications out of a total of 306,042.

And another of his first ministerial acts was to extend the concession for foreign nationals awaiting the outcomes of their visa, waiver and appeal applications, as reported by Business Tech. Home Affairs gave long-term visa holders legal permission to remain in South Africa until 31 December 2024.

Chidimma Adetshina saga

And recently Home Affairs was drawn into the realm of beauty pageants, when doubt was cast over a Miss South Africa finalist’s citizenship.

Later, the Department of Home Affairs revealed Chidimma Adetshina’s mother may have committed fraud and identity theft to register her birth. It has since instituted an investigation.

“Adetshina could not have participated in the alleged unlawful actions of her mother as she was an infant at the time when the activities took place in 2001,” the department clarified.

Do you still own a green ID book? Why are you holding onto it?

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Despite media outlets calling it the Afrikaner-only township of Kleinfontein, with “various types of housing, including shacks, RDP and wooden houses,” if you visit the Friends of Kleinfontein page on Facebook, it portrays a far more serene settlement. There are images of old-style Apatheid flags, wildlife and pretty sunsets. And men and women working for the betterment of their community – building roads, fixing plumbing and building important infrastructure.

AFRIKANER-ONLY TOWNSHIP OF KLEINFONTEN

However, the Afrikaner-only township of Kleinfontein is now in the crosshairs of the City of Tshwane. The High Court in Pretoria was recently asked to step in and enforce bylaws after the Afrikaner-only township of Kleinfontein was declared illegal, reports The Citizen. But the residents have defended themselves saying their land is zoned for agricultural use and the enclave is not illegal.

Director and shareholder of the settlement Dannie de Beer argues they’ve received nothing from the City of Tshwane, nor do they want anything. Thus its exact intention to be recognised as a separate homeland. He explained the land was bought before the City of Tshwane came into existence.

WE JUST WANT PEACE

Little is known about how culturally independent life behind its walls works. But a window into the secretive Afrikaner-only township of Kleinfontein can be found through its Facebook page. At the entrance are statues of former Prime Minister Hendrik Verwoerd and former President Paul Kruger. Residents are reported to be living in various types of housing, including shacks, RDP-equivalent houses, wooden houses and townhouses. The settlement has its own electricity, water and municipality.

Moreover, Kleinfontein boasts rugby fields, tennis courts, a large solar energy plant and independent wastewater system and water supply. Images on social media show plentiful wildlife, a fishing dam, picnic area and a community hall. Residents enjoy communal potjies together and regular visits from the ice-cream van. But how does it run and what does the City of Tshwane want to do with it?

SHARE BLOCK SCHEME

“First Kleinfontein was a closed corporation. Then a company, then a corporation, and now it’s a share block scheme, like Orania. The company owns all the land and assigns portions to community members,” noted de Beer. Despite millions spent in legal fees to resolve the dispute, government keeps going after them.

De Beer says problems for the Afrikaner-only township of Kleinfontein started when disgruntled former residents started inciting people not to pay their levies. A case was brought forward, and the city was ordered to apply bylaws, which questioned the validity of the Kleinfontein’s township status.

Meanwhile Obakeng Ramabodu of the EFF has said: “The city must act without delay to enforce all planning and building regulations. This includes ensuring the land is properly rezoned and subdivided and that building plans are in accordance with legal requirements.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF AN AFRIKANER-ONLY TOWNSHIP?

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The 34-year-old #FeesMustFall activist was arrested for contravention of the Riotous Assemblies Act and conspiracy to commit public violence, which happened in Johannesburg in March this year.

BONGINKOSI KHANYILE ARRESTED
 

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said it is alleged that Khanyile made a public announcement that violated the Riotous Assemblies Act.

Mogale said the essence of the announcement was to instigate the citizens of South Africa to protest and commit acts of violence all over the country should the political party of his choice not be on the ballot paper.

“The announcement also had connotations that the country’s citizens must gather together and loot the country as previously done in July 2021. A criminal case was reported at Brixton police station, and Khanyile was arrested at Durban Magistrate Court while he was appearing for the July 2021 matter,” she explained. 

Khanyile was released on bail and will appear in court on 23 September 2024 for both cases. 

During his address Bonginkosi Khanyile said all hell would break loose if MK party leader and former president Jacob Zuma is not allowed on the ballot paper.

“If they remove the MKP and President Zuma from the ballot as the face of the campaign and try to take our rights, there won’t be elections in South Africa,” Khanyile said while addressing the media in Johannesburg.

FORMER YOUTH LEADER SLAPPED WITH R150 000 FINE

In July, the Electoral Court has instructed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party members Bonginkosi Khanyile and Visvin Reddy to pay a fine of R150 000 each. 

Ahead of the 29 May elections, the two were filmed saying that if the MK Party did not appear in the ballot box, there would be anarchy and riots of an unprecedented scale. The videos were widely circulated and viewed by scores of people on social media platforms. 

The Electoral Court said the R150 000 fine is suspended for five years on condition that:

• The two do not contravene sections 87(1) and 87(2) of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998 during the suspension period. 
• The two do not make any statements intended to undermine the integrity of any electoral process during the suspension period. 

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT BONGINKOSI KHANYILE’S ARREST?

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WHY FLOYD SHIVAMBU LEFT

Insiders from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) tell Sunday Times that Floyd Shivambu felt disrespected by Julius Malema.

The sources also reveal that Malema was secretly trying to get a deputy president post for himself in the GNU, which led to his fallout with Shivambu.

Sources from the EFF, the African National Congress (ANC), the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) also reveal that Shivambu was not pleased when he found that Malema wanted to join the GNU as deputy finance minister.

Shivambu, who was leading the party’s negotiations team during the GNU talks reportedly felt betrayed and disrespected by Malema.

“Floyd joined the MK party purely for his own political advancement, because in the EFF he would never be president. Even his prospects of remaining deputy were uncertain come December, with Marshall Dlamini challenging him for deputy,” says EFF insider.

The end of their political bromance means that the Malema will get a new deputy minister in December while Shivambu is tipped to be the future president of the MK party.

Malema revealed on Thursday that he accepts Shivambu’s decision to resign from the party.

“I accept the decision of the deputy president who has voluntarily resigned his position and did not renew his membership. When he gave me the letter yesterday (Wednesday), I felt the same pain I felt when I received the news of the passing of my mother”

JULIUS MALEMA: ‘WE COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER’

The Star previously reported that Floyd Shivambu’s resignation was fuelled by in-fighting with Julius Malema over the party’s elective conference.

An EFF insider revealed to the publication that Malema’s ambition to remain the president in December demoralised Shivambu, who wanted the position.

Malema warned Shivambu at their 10th anniversary celebrations in July 2023, that he was aware that he had ambitions to dislodge him as president.

“We complement each other, we are not in competition with each other. I have made it clear to Floyd that the day you get tired of me, don’t go and organise against me, just tell me, ‘I think you have served your term, it is time to go’,” Malema said.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms Angie Motshekga to serve as Acting President today, Saturday, 17 August 2024,” said the Presidency in a brief statement on Saturday.

Cyril Ramaphosa in Zimbabwe

The appointment has been made in view of the President’s Working Visit today to Harare, Zimbabwe, to participate in the 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

President Ramaphosa arrived in Harare on Saturday morning to attend the Summit that will be held under the theme: “Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC”. 

Morero was elected on Friday, 16 August, following Kabelo Gwamanda’s resignation.

DADA MORERO ELECTED NEW JOHANNEBSURG MAYOR

Morero was elected Joburg’s first citizen in September 2022 when he took the mayoral chain from the Democratic Alliance’s (DA’s) Mpho Phalatse, but he barely spent a month in office as litigation ruled his election was illegal.

Phalatse was reinstated as mayor but was quickly ousted via a no-confidence motion, which paved the way for Thapelo Amad, first, and then Kabelo Gwamanda later – from three-seat party Al Jama-ah – to be mayors.

On Friday, Morero was up against DA caucus leader in the municipality Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku.

WHO WERE THE PREVIOUS MAYORS?

FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW MAYOR

• Dada Morero was born and raised in Orlando West Extension, a few kilometres from apartheid activists Nelson Mandela and Andrew Mlangeni’s homes.
• According to the City of Johannesburg, Morero cut his teeth in political activism in high school by rebelling against the forced occupation of Soweto schools by white former South African Defence Force members in the late eighties. He is a former Congress of the South African Students’ Congress student leader. 
• The new mayor also holds a postgraduate diploma in Public Management from the Wits Business School and a Master’s degree from the Regenesys Business School. He is currently enrolled for a Master’s in Policy Development at the London University.
• Before being elected regional chairperson in June 2022, Morero was the longest-serving regional secretary in Gauteng having served three terms.
• He is a father of five and is married.

DO YOU THINK DADA MORERO WILL FINISHG HIS TERM AS JOHANNESBURG MAYOR?

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This comes as council has convened to elect a new mayor after Kabelo Gwamanda handed in his resignation letter earlier this week.

DA WANTS JOHANNESBURG COUNCIL TO BE DISSOLVED

DA caucus leader in Johannesburg Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said that given the merry-go-round of mayors who have tried and failed to hold together Johannesburg’s unwieldy and ungovernable coalitions, it is time to recognise that the 2021 local election delivered such a fragmented result that it has proved almost impossible to put together a workable government.

Kayser-Echeozonjoku said when this kind of impasse arises in other democracies, voters are often given a chance to rectify the situation in a new election, and they believe the same must happen in Johannesburg to stop the further unraveling.

She said that currently, Johannesburg’s residents have to watch from the sidelines as service delivery continues to crumble. Many have no water, electricity, or refuse removal.

“The province must act when a City can no longer deliver basic services. It will not help to put Johannesburg under the administration of an ANC-run province, so the only viable remedy is dissolution.

“Only by putting power back into the hands of the city’s residents can a new council be elected that will be more responsive to residents,” she said.

HOW MANY MAYORS HAS THE METRO HAD?

Since 2021, the City of Johannesburg has had seven mayors with the ANC’s Dada Morero set to be elected for the second time.

The metro municipality has been unstable following the 2021 local government elections. Most of the mayors were ousted in no confidence motions after a few months in office.

Here are some of the city’s previous first citizens:

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE DA’S CALL FOR FRESH ELECTIONS IN NJOHANNESBURG?

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Following intense discussions Kabelo Gwamanda who was the city’s first citizen since May 2023 handed in his resignation letter earlier this week.

DADA MORERO TIPPED TO BE THE NEW CITY OF JOHANNESBURG MAYOR

The South African previously reported that African National Congress (ANC) regional chairperson in Johannesburg Dada Morero who replaced the Democratic Alliance’s Mpho Phalatse as mayor in 2022 is set to replace Gwamanda.

This comes as ActionSA placed three key conditions on its conditional support of a new government in the City of Johannesburg.

Additionally, the ANC’s highest-decision making body, the national executive committee (NEC) instructed its national coalition task team to intervene and stabilise hung municipalities starting in Johannesburg.

Earlier this month, the NEC held a three-day meeting and a Lekgotla to deliberate on the party’s dismal performance in the 29 May polls and other issues.

During his address, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that the ANC suffered its major electoral decline in metro municipalities. This has been the case since the 2016 Local Government Elections. Despite this, most of the metros are governed by an ANC-led coalition.

He said the instability, disfunction and poor performance of metros like Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, eThekwini and Buffalo City are clearly reflected in the election results.

“We therefore need decisive interventions in these metros. This is necessary, not simply for the ANC’s electoral prospects but for the sake of engendering inclusive growth, ensuring that there is job creation and that there is poverty reduction. These metros are where millions of our people lie, where most economic activity actually takes place,” he said.

He also confirmed that the first engagement will start in Johannesburg.

“The NEC made an assessment in all hung municipalities and has decided to work with a range of parties to stabilise municipalities across the country. During this month, the national task team on coalitions will be engaging starting in Johannesburg and it will also help to restore, rebuild and renew various structures,” he added.

WHO WERE THE PREVIOUS MAYORS?

DO YOU THINK THE NEW JOHANNESBURG MAYOR WILL FINISH HIS TERM?

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His latest move sees him joining the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, the political formation led by former president Jacob Zuma.

The move is not wholly unexpected. After all, he is the spokesperson for the Jacob Zuma Foundation.

Mzwanele Manyi moves from ANC to ATM: A quest for transformation?

Manyi’s political career began within the ranks of the African National Congress (ANC), where he became a notable figure. However, disillusionment with the party’s policies, particularly around land expropriation without compensation, led him to seek out a new political home.

In January 2019, Manyi made headlines when he announced his departure from the ANC to join the African Transformation Movement (ATM).

“The ANC is sabotaging itself,” he stated, criticising the party’s reluctance to fully embrace transformative measures.

However, Manyi’s time with the ATM was not without controversy. Shortly after his defection, his own initiative – the All Africa Decolonisation Congress (AADC) – accused him of fraudulent activities. The AADC claimed that Manyi was laundering money through the ATM and had even engaged in secretive overseas meetings with the controversial Gupta family.

Manyi, in response, dismissed the accusations and vowed to take legal action, insisting that the AADC was his creation and that he would prove it by disbanding the party.

Embracing the red berets: A new chapter with the EFF

In May 2023, Manyi decided to leave the ATM, choosing instead to join the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

The move, which Manyi described as amicable, was motivated by his belief that the EFF, with its larger base, could provide a stronger platform for his political ambitions.

“After careful thought and consideration, I have come to the conclusion I can serve South Africa better when in an organisation like the EFF,” he said.

His hope, he said, was to act as a bridge between the ATM and the EFF, fostering collaboration between the two opposition parties.

A new beginning with MK Party

Despite these ambitions, Manyi’s tenure with the EFF was shortlived. In a surprising twist, he and EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu announced their departure from the party on Thursday. Their next destination? The MK Party.

While neither Manyi nor Shivambu have publicly disclosed their reasons for leaving the EFF, the MK Party has welcomed them with open arms, signalling a new chapter in Manyi’s political career.

Will Manyi’s latest move to the MK Party be his last?

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Who will replace Shivambu as Malema’s right hand man?

WHO WILL REPLACE FLOYD SHIVAMBU AS MALEMA’S RIGHT HAND MAN?

The South African previously reported that Shivambu confirmed his resignation in a media briefing at the party’s headquarters in Johannesburg on Thursday.

Malema and Shivambu have been as thick as thieves since their days in the African National Congress (ANC) youth league where Malema was President and Shivambu was the spokesperson. The two have also served as President and Deputy President of the EFF since the organisation was formed.

During the briefing, Malema said they will not elect a Deputy President as the party will hold its National People’s Assembly, an elective conference, in December.

In an interview with the SABC in July, Malema said he is absolutely available to lead the party for the third term. He also acknowledged that it is up to the delegates whether he comes back from the conference as leader or not.

According to reports, some EFF members are rooting for the party’s former spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi to become secretary-general.

During the interview with the SABC, Malema said he has not heard of the contestation between Ndlozi and Dlamini.

“I don’t see why Mbuyiseni and SG [Dlamini] would contest each other…Whether you have Mbuyiseni or Marshall you have your best. If there is going to be such a contestation it will be amongst the best of the best of the EFF, but I don’t see it happening,” Malema said.

EFF WILL REMAIN EVEN IF PROMINENT MEMBERS RESIGN

Malema also assured EFF members that the party was not disintegrating, saying the doors of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House would remain open for the foreseeable future.

“I will be buried with the flag of the EFF,” Malema said, adding that he would not betray the movement.

Further, Malema said the party’s policy does not allow members who have resigned to join other parties to return to the EFF. However, Shivambu can return to the Red Berets should he wish to do so because he is not just a comrade but his dear and because he co-founded the EFF.

“The day you decide to come back, you are more than welcome,” he said.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT FLOYD SHIVAMBU’S RESIGNATION FROM THE EFF?

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Cholota appeared before Magistrate Estelle de Lange for the third time this week as her bail application was postponed twice. Cholota has been in custody since she was extradited from the United States last Thursday.

MOROADI CHOLOTA GRANTED BAIL

Cholota is accused of fraud and corruption, among other charges, alongside her former boss Magashule, infamous businessman Edwin Sodi and others, such as:

• Thabane Zulu, former director-general of national Department of Human Settlements
• Nthimotse Mokhesi
• Mahlomola Matlakala
• Sello Radebe
• Adel Kgotso Manyeki
• Nozipho Molikoe
• Albertus Venter
• Margaret-Ann Diedericks, former head of Gauteng’s human settlements department
• Olly Mlamleli, former MEC and Mangaung mayor

On Tuesday, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Cholota would most likely flee if granted bail, and in support, they contend that:

• She was extradited from US and did not return to South Africa willingly, while her co-accused – Magashule, Sodi and others – have been availing themselves to the court without coercion
•  She has not seen her child, who resides in South Africa, since 2020
•  She has already settled in the US and has not been to South Africa in approximately five years
•  She has a romantic partner who lives in the US

On Thursday, Cholota’s lawyer argued that she is not a flight risk as all her travel documents were left behind in the United States when she was extradited, and that all her co-accused in the matter are out on bail, so she deserves to be released too.

De Lange said she believed there are conditions that can limit Cholota’s movements and does not support the State’s assertion that she is a flight risk.

“The defence proved to the court that it is in the interest of justice for the accused to be granted bail,” she said.

WHAT ARE HER BAIL CONDITIONS?

• She should be present in court at 8:30 whenever the matter is heard.
• She may not travel outside Bloemfontein and she should consult the investigating officer for consent.
• Lastly, Cholota should report to the nearest police station every Monday and Friday between 8:00 and 17:00.

The magistrate further emphasised that should she fail to abide by the conditions, her bail will be forfeited to the State and a warrant of arrest will be issued.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE COURT’S DECISION TO GRANT MOROADI CHOLOTA BAIL?

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His departure to the Jacob Zuma-led uMkhonto WeSizwe (MK) Party, along with Mzwanele Manyi, marks a significant moment in the political landscape, but his career remains notable for its influence and impact.

Early political involvement of Floyd Shivambu

Shivambu’s senior political journey began with the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), where he served as the national spokesperson from 2008 to 2012.

During this time, he became known for his outspoken nature and close alliance with Julius Malema, another prominent figure in South African politics. Shivambu’s role in the ANCYL was marked by his firm stance on various issues, but his tenure ended in controversy.

In 2012, the ANC disciplinary committee suspended Shivambu from his position after he swore at a journalist and made provocative comments about regime change in Botswana. The suspension was a decisive moment in his career, as he was later expelled from the ANCYL.

Mzwandile Masina, the convener of the ANC Youth League’s National Task Team, commented on the situation at the time, saying: “Mr Shivambu has made it his full-time job to undermine the organisation and its leadership.”

This marked the end of his time with the ANC Youth League, but it was far from the end of his political journey.

Founding of the Economic Freedom Fighters

After his departure from the ANC, Shivambu – alongside Malema – co-founded the EFF in 2013. The EFF quickly became a significant force in South African politics, advocating for radical economic reforms and challenging the status quo.

Shivambu played a crucial role as the party’s deputy president and chief whip in Parliament. His leadership within the EFF was characterised by his strong advocacy for economic freedom and his participation in key parliamentary committees, including the Trade and Industry Portfolio Committee and the Standing Committee on Finance.

Shivambu’s involvement with the EFF also extended beyond South Africa’s borders. He served as a Member of the Pan-African Parliament from 2014 to 2018, representing the EFF’s commitment to pan-Africanism and continental unity. This role highlighted his influence on both national and international stages.

Shivambu: A controversial but influential figure

Throughout his career, Shivambu has been a figure of both controversy and influence. His tenure as a Board Member of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme from 2008 to 2012 and his involvement with the South African Students Congress further demonstrated his commitment to youth and education. His political style, often marked by directness and confrontation, has earned him both admirers and critics.

Shivambu’s resignation from the EFF raises questions about his future and the direction of the party without one of its founding members.

What impact do you think Shivambu’s departure will have on the EFF’s future?

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Floyd Shivambu who has served as deputy president since the EFF was formed 11 years ago and Mzwanele Manyi have resigned.

FLOYD SHIVAMBU QUITS EFF

During a media briefing on Thursday, Shivambu confirmed that he handed in his resignation letter on Wednesday, and that he is set to join the Jacob Zuma-led uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.

“We have over the years played an important role in shaping the politics of South Africa and the continent. We have all played our parts progressively and have no doubt that we will continue to do so.

“I firmly believe that political decisions should never be personalised and treated as betrayal of the cause and of individuals,” he said in his resignation letter.

Shivambu also confirmed that he has not been assigned any leadership role in the MK Party.

During the briefing, Malema said when he received Shivambu’s resignation letter he felt the same pain he felt when he received the news that he had lost his mother, emphasising that Shivambu is not just a comrade but a dear brother.

The two have been as thick as thieves since their days in the African National Congress (ANC) youth league where Malema was President and Shivambu was the spokesperson. The two have also served as President and Deputy President of the EFF since the organisation was formed.

Malema said the party’s policy does not allow members who have resigned to join other parties to return to the EFF. However, Shivambu can return to the Red Berets should he wish to do so.

“The day you decide to come back, you are more than welcome,” he said.

ZUMA CONTINUES TO RECRUIT EFF TOP BRASS

In July, Zuma appointed Julius Malema’s former ally Magasela Mzobe as the party’s head of presidency.

In 2023, Mzobe ditched the ANC to join the Red Berets after his long-term service as he also served as national coordinator in the youth league task team that was set up after Malema was expelled.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT FLOYD SHIVAMBU’S RESIGNATION FROM THE EFF?

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This confirms earlier reports that Shivambu had quit the party overnight and was moving to Zuma’s fledgling party.

Shivambu, on Thursday afternoon, read his resignation letter to reporters gathered at the EFF’s headquarters in Johannesburg.

“I wish the EFF full prosperity and success, and wish that all commissars and ground forces will accept the very difficult decision I have taken,” Shivambu read from the letter.

Taking to the podium after Shivambu, EFF president and co-founder Julius Malema expressed sadness at his deputy’s departure.

“When he sent me a letter yesterday, I felt the same pain when I received the news of the passing away of my mother because Floyd to me is not just a comrade. He is a brother, and he will remain a brother even when he pursues his political career differently,” a visibly pained Malema said to reporters.

Manyi also joins MK Party

Malema also announced that Mzwanele Manyi would be leaving the Red Berets to join MK Party, after resigning on Monday. Manyi, who joined the EFF in May 2023, is the spokesperson of the Jacob Zuma Foundation and the move has long been expected.

The EFF also told reporters that he expects more EFF members to leave due to their “loyalty” to Shivambu.

“Floyd is not the only one. Jimmy Manyi has also resigned to go and join MK. There will be many others who are going to leave the EFF because they have got their loyalty and support to the deputy president,” Malema said.

Earlier on Thursday, EFF MPs Busisiwe Mkhwebane and Carl Niehaus moved swiftly to quash rumours that they were also exiting the party.

Mkhwebane confirmed on Wednesday morning that she has not resigned the Julius Malema-led EFF, calling such rumours “fake news”.

“Rumours by SABC News about me leaving EFF are fake news. I will never betray the fighters – my political home,” Mkhwebane posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Niehaus also said SABC News was spreading “fake news” and demanded that they issue a correction and apology for their report.

“I remain a loyal member of the EFF and have absolutely no reason or intention to leave my party,” Niehaus wrote on X.

We are not closing shop, says EFF leader

Malema also moved to assure current EFF members that the party was not disintegrating, saying the doors of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House would remain open for the foreseeable future.

“I will be buried with the flag of the EFF,” Malema said, adding that he would not betray the movement.

Do you think EFF will survive without Shivambu?

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Mkhwebane confirmed on Thursday morning that she had not resigned the Julius Malema-led EFF, calling such rumours “fake news”.

“Rumours by SABC News about me leaving EFF are fake news. I will never betray the fighters – my political home,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Another EFF MP who was quick to dismiss any talk of an exit was Carl Niehaus.

He also said SABC News was spreading “fake news” and demanded that they issue a correction and apology for their report.

“I remain a loyal member of the EFF and have absolutely no reason or intention to leave my party,” Niehaus wrote on X.

Ndlozi and Mente also out of EFF?

Mkhwebane and Niehaus’ statements come after news that EFF deputy president and co-founder Floyd Shivambu has reportedly resigned from the left-leaning party.

And Newzroom Afrika on Thursday morning, citing sources, reported on the possible exit of former EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and incumbent national chairperson Veronica Mente. Both are also EFF MPs.

Last month, Ndlozi was touted as a possible candidate to replace Marshall Dlamini as the EFF’s secretary-general, when the party convenes its elective conference in December 2024.

“I think I must convene a meeting of all former presidents of EFFSC, including the current one. We must have a view on the EFF national people assembly. I will persuade them, if they agree, that a character like Mbuyiseni must come as an SG,” said former EFF Student Command president Mpho Morolane last month.

Late-night press release

The rumour mill went into overdrive in the early morning, when journalists woke up to a media release from the Red Berets that was sent out at 00:28, inviting them to an urgent press conference at 12:00 on Thursday at the party’s headquarters in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

“The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) invites members of the media to attend an urgent press conference today, which will be addressed by the EFF officials,” the vague media release read.

On Thursday morning, SABC News reporter Samkele Maseko announced on X (formerly Twitter) – citing highly placed sources – that Floyd Shivambu, the party’s deputy president and co-founder, had resigned from the left-leaning party.

Midnight media release from Red Berets

The rumour mill went into overdrive in the early morning, when journalists woke up to a media release from the Red Berets that was sent out at 00:28, inviting them to an urgent press conference at 12:00 on Thursday at the party’s headquarters in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

“The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) invites members of the media to attend an urgent press conference today, which will be addressed by the EFF officials,” the brief and vague media release read.

In July 2023, there were reports of a fracture between EFF leader Julius Malema and Shivambu’s relationship, which was made apparently at the party’s gala dinner when Malema subliminally warned challengers to his presidency.

“I have made it very clear to Floyd that the day you get tired of me, don’t go and against me. Just tell me: ‘I think you have served your term, it is time to go’. I will leave without putting up a fight because I will know it is friendly fire and it comes from a good place,” Malema said.

However, days later Shivambu dispelled murmurs of any friction between him and his “brother” Malema.

“There will never be a time where the EFF will be divided because of my differences with the [self-styled] commander-in-chief [Malema]. We have been working together for 15 solid years.

“More than being political partners, we are brothers,” Shivambu told Newzroom Afrika’s Athi Mtongana at the time.

EFF conference looming

The EFF, which was founded in 2013, is heading to an elective conference – dubbed the National People’s Assembly – in December 2024 and Malema indicated that he would be running for re-election as party president.

It will be Malema’s third term as party leader and Shivambu’s re-election, also for a third stint, was also considered a near certainty.

However, there is talk of a potential change in the secretary-general (SG) office, with Mbuyiseni Ndlozi being lobbied to replace party engine Marshall Dlamini.

“I think I must convene a meeting of all former presidents of EFFSC, including the current one. We must have a view on the EFF national people assembly. I will persuade them, if they agree, that a character like Mbuyiseni must come as an SG,” said former EFF Student Command president Mpho Morolane last month.

Do you think Malema and Shivambu’s relationship has fractured?

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Mbete, speaker of the National Assembly during the fifth Parliament (2014-2019), says she was simply applying the rules of Parliament when shielding Zuma from criticism over alleged Gupta-related corruption, primarily levelled by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and Democratic Alliance (DA). Zuma was president from 2009 to 2018.

“Even if the president had been FW de Klerk [late apartheid president] at the time, I would have taken the same positions because the speaker takes decisions on the basis of the rules of Parliament,” she told SABC News‘ Leanne Manas on Wednesday morning.

Manas had to put it to Mbete that sections of society had previously said “you protected him [Zuma], especially during the years of chaos we saw in Parliament”.

Mbete said this purported unfair shielding of Zuma was a misconception, created and perpetuated by journalists.

“The media chose a particular line, stuck to it and confused everybody,” Mbete said.

Watch former speaker in conversation with ‘SABC News’

Over the years, she has repeated that she did not unduly protect Zuma and corruption-accused ANC members of Parliament (MPs), and on Wednesday, she stuck to the same line.

“It is not true that I protected Jacob Zuma,” Mbete told Manas, referencing the time she allowed a secret ballot vote of no confidence proceed into the former president.

She said at the time, the move shocked many of her critics, because she was “supposedly the stooge of Jacob Zuma”.

However, it was during Mbete’s tenure as leader of Parliament that Zuma escaped censure from MPs when he used taxpayer money to upgrade his personal home in Nkandla.

No longer friends with Zuma

Recently, it seems Mbete and Zuma have become estranged, especially after the latter started uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, which ate into the ANC’s support during the 2024 elections, taking away the liberation party’s electoral mandate.

Speaking to Sunday World, Mbete said she had no desire to engage with Zuma, who was recently expelled from the ANC.

“We are not friends. We were comrades who worked together at a particular time,” she said.

Mbete and Zuma were once political allies, a bond which was officially solidified in 2007 when they were both elected into the ANC’s top seven leadership at the party’s watershed elective conference in Polokwane.

At that conference, Mbete was elected national chairperson of the ANC, while Zuma became party president, beating Thabo Mbeki.

Zondo criticises Parliament under stewardship of Baleka Mbete

During the Commission of Inquiry into Allegations State Capture – held between 21 August 2018 – 15 June 2022 – commission chair Justice Raymond Zondo repeatedly castigated Mbete and Parliament for not doing enough to hold MPs accountable and stem the tide of corruption.

“The [parliamentary] Portfolio Committee on Transport failed to conduct any inquiry… The Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs did not demonstrate much willingness to proceed with due expedition. Although it did ultimately conduct an effective enquiry, it acted far too slowly…

“The Portfolio Committee on Mineral Resources failed to hold an adequate inquiry, initially due to evasive conduct on the part of Minister [Mosebenzi] Zwane… This also raises a concern as to how committed… the ANC’s parliamentary leadership really were to the investigative process,” Zondo said in his report.

Zondo also recommended that legislation be beefed up to prevent future lapses in parliamentary monitoring, including protecting MPs from sanction by their political parties “merely for exercising their oversight duties reasonably and in good faith”.

In one of its defences against Zondo’s many criticisms, Parliament came out strongly against him in 2023, saying his remarks were “unfortunate, lack merit and undermine the principles of separation of powers”.

Zondo had earlier said Parliament continued to be incapable of preventing another State Capture attempt.

Do you think ex-speaker Mbete and MPs did enough to stop the rot of corruption?

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Gwamanda tendered his resignation letter on Tuesday, 13 August, following pressure from political parties and disgruntled residents.

HOW MUCH DID KABELO GWAMANDA EARN AS JOBURG MAYOR?

In September 2023, the Democratic Alliance (DA), ActionSA and African National Congress (ANC) in the metro voted in favour of salary hikes for the executive. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) voted against the salary hikes saying that the increases will widen the ever increasing pay gap between the rich and the poor.

The upper limits of the annual total remuneration packages of full-time councillors are:

• Executive mayor: R1 501 351 up from R1 446 388
• Speaker: R1 212 520 up from R1 168 131
• Member of the executive committee, or mayoral committee or whip: R1 142 175 up from R1 100 361
• Chairperson of oversight committee: R1 108 670 up from R1 068 083

Similarly, executive deputy mayors, deputy mayors and speakers’ salaries are also based on the grade of the municipalities they are attached to. Those under grade 6 earned R1 168 131 in 2022 and will now receive R1 212 520 yearly. While under grade 1, officials earned R650 986 last year and now will receive R675 723.

Following his resignation, Gwamanda said he will remain an ordinary Al Jama-ah councillor. However, party founder and leader Ganief Hendricks hinted that Al Jama-ah could be getting a seat on the mayoral committee.

If Gwamanda fills that seat, he could earn just over R1.1 million, a decrease of about R350 000 from his current R1.5 million.

FORMER MAYOR SAYS RESIGNATION IS NOT A RESULT OF POLITICAL PRESSURE

Gwamanda told SABC News that his resignation as mayor was informed by nothing outside his conversation with the ANC.

He pat himself on the shoulder, saying service delivery has improved in the city during his tenure.

“The Government of Local Unity did do their best to ensure that we restore, to some level, the service delivery required in the City of Johannesburg.”

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN JOHANNESBURG?

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Gwamanda, who was elected in May 2023, finally handed in his resignation letter on Tuesday, 13 August. His resignation will be effective from Friday, 16 August, as confirmed by speaker of the city council Margaret Arnolds.

ACTIONSA WELCOMES THE RESIGNATION OF KABELO GWAMANDA 

ActionSA said Gwamanda’s tenure of just over a year could only be characterised by failure and catastrophic incompetence. The city’s downward spiral is evident across Johannesburg.

ActionSA caucus leader in the City of Johannesburg Nobuhle Mthembu said residents had suffered under a mayor whose ineptitude and habitual blame-shifting, never self-included despite his unambiguous executive responsibility, have led to a disastrous state of service delivery across the city.

Mthembu said they argued from the day of his election that Gwamanda, who replaced Thapelo Amad, another “disastrous” mayor from Al Jama-ah, was not fit for the role and would certainly be unable to meet the job’s demands. 

“ActionSA looks forward to the election of a new mayor, which we are confident will be an improvement on the objectively disastrous tenure of Gwamanda.”

Former City of Johannesburg mayor and Democratic Alliance (DA) member Mpho Phalatse said it was about time Gwamanda resigned. However, this is half of the problem solved. 

“It would not help the city if we replace mayor Gwamanda with an equally incompetent mayor or someone who is disinterested or simply has ulterior motives that would not benefit residents,” she said. 

Likewise, the Johannesburg Crisis Alliance welcomed the resignation. Still, it emphasised that it was not a victory but a critical moment for a renewed commitment to better governance in the metro municipality.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT KABELO GWAMANDA’S RESIGNATION?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.