News 08:00

BULLETIN 26 January 8 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The DA calls for an urgent GNU dialogue with parties opposed to the Expropriation Act
# Trump warns BRICS over shared currency plans
# And rugby: Blitzboks smash Fiji to grab Perth semifinal spot

# DA leader John Steenhuisen has demanded urgent talks with the government of national unity partners opposing the Expropriation Act. Steenhuisen, citing unconstitutionality claims, called for the Act’s return to Parliament. Steenhuisen said the party would invoke clause 19 of the Statement of Intent, a document asserting the DA’s pivotal role in governance. He warned against being sidelined and advocating coalition respect:

On his part, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has acknowledged the DA’s right to oppose the Expropriation Act but affirmed the ANC’s commitment to transformation. Addressing the media, Mbalula described the Act as pivotal for land redistribution and accused some coalition partners of the government of national unity of resisting progress. He insisted that the ANC would not compromise on advancing South Africa’s socio-economic agenda:

# US president Donald Trump has threatened 100-percent tariffs on BRICS nations if they pursue a shared currency to challenge the dollar. The BRICS bloc aims to reduce dependence on the US dollar and bolster economic independence. Experts warn such tariffs could raise US trade costs, push BRICS towards alternative markets, and accelerate de-dollarisation efforts. Prolonged tensions risk global economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions, potentially reshaping the international financial landscape.

# Rugby: The Springbok Sevens surged into the semifinals of the Perth tournament on Saturday, smashing Fiji 19-0 in their quarterfinal. Fiji, who have struggled in Perth and lost to Uruguay on day one, were never a match for the Blitzboks as they were dominated from start to finish. The South Africans now face hosts Australia in the semifinals and then the winner between Spain and Argentina if they make it to the final. The semifinals kick off just after nine this morning, with the Blitzboks in action at 9.27 am.

# And an expedition of 124 women from 24 countries, including South Africa, will embark on a journey to Antarctica on Tuesday. The group, drawn from science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical disciplines, aims to support research and sustainability efforts. The initiative, organised by Homeward Bound, aims to create sustainable solutions through diverse, STEMM-based leadership. South African conservationist Aaniyah Martin highlights the opportunity to amplify women’s voices in leadership.

Stay tuned for more news………….