News 09:00

BULLETIN 23 March 9 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The IFP urges the ANC leadership to assist in de-escalating tensions in KwaZulu-Natal
# Build One South Africa provides water tanks in Swaneville amid the water crisis
# And, cricket: A sizzling start to the Indian Premier League

# The Inkatha Freedom Party has called on the ANC leadership to assist in de-escalating tensions between the two parties in KwaZulu-Natal ahead of the general elections. IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa has accused the ANC of using violent slurs against his party, labelling their members as bloodletting warlords and hoodlums. Hlabisa says the IFP condemns violence and rejects baseless claims made by the ANC, urging for a peaceful resolution:

# Build One South Africa has delivered water tanks to Swaneville residents in Krugersdorp as part of its water testing campaign. BOSA’s deputy president, Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to working with communities to ensure access to clean water for every South African. BOSA plans to present its action plan to address the water crisis to the minister of Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu, soon:

BOSA adds, no one should be surprised by South Africa’s water crisis, attributing it to government unresponsiveness and a lack of political will. It notes government has even announced plans to source water from Zimbabwe. The party says the crisis has left large parts of Gauteng without water for two weeks, affecting residents’ ability to perform basic tasks. BOSA calls on water stakeholders and relevant organisations to urgently address this life-threatening challenge in the province.

# The United Nations Security Council yesterday turned down a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and an Israel-Hamas hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the measure proposed by the United States. The resolution called for an immediate and sustained ceasefire lasting roughly six weeks. The council will meet again today to vote on an alternative resolution, a draft copy of which was seen by Reuters. It demands an immediate ceasefire for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the release of all hostages and more humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

# And, cricket: A stellar bowling performance by Mustafizur Rahman and robust batting from the top six batsmen saw defending champions, Chennai Super Kings, begin the defence of their IPL title with a commanding six-wicket victory against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Mustafizur sparked a collapse which saw RCB lose three wickets for a single run before recovering to a total of 173 for 6 after winning the toss and batting first against the five-time champions. All CSK’s top six scored at over a run-a-ball as victory was sealed at 176 for four with eight balls to spare.

Stay tuned for more news………….