News 11:00

BULLETIN 26 April 11 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Commissioner Edward Kieswetter outlines leadership traits as he exits SARS
# Hopes of peace in the US-Israeli war fade as Donald Trump scraps talks
# And cricket: Deepti Sharma shines as India down the Proteas

# Outgoing South African Revenue Service commissioner Edward Kieswetter says effective leadership requires strong character, competence and a proven track record. Speaking to eNCA, Kieswetter stressed that leaders must serve the public, possess relevant skills and demonstrate delivery. Kieswetter says leadership demands a strong work ethic and integrity, warning against political affiliation in position placement. He emphasised clear vision, execution and building institutional capacity to ensure sustainable service delivery:

# The Electoral Commission has concluded a week-long stakeholder engagement programme in KwaZulu-Natal aimed at strengthening democracy and voter participation ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. During the discussions, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini pledging support for peaceful voter mobilisation. The IEC noted a survey showing declining trust and political disengagement. Electoral Commission’s chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, confirmed ongoing voter registration drives, staff training, and boundary adjustments underway to ensure credible, inclusive elections:

# Calls are mounting for the removal and disciplinary action against of a member of the Western Cape provincial parliament accused of alleged trafficking in people, rape and sexual exploitation of children. The politician that remains unknown until he pleads was granted 15-thousand-rand bail in the George Magistrate’s Court. It is alleged that he abused a minor for five years with the victim’s mother also arrested. The politician returns to court on May 27.

# Hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough in the US-Israeli war with Iran receded as a new ‌week began, with talks aimed at ending the two-month conflict at a standstill and both Tehran and Washington showing little willingness to soften their terms. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi left mediator Pakistan empty-handed at the weekend, and US President Donald Trump cancelled a planned visit to Islamabad by his envoys. The deadlock leaves the two countries locked in a confrontation that ⁠has already pushed energy prices to multi-year highs, stoked inflation and darkened global growth prospects.

# Cricket: Deepti Sharma produced a match-winning all-round performance as India Women claimed their first victory of the series, beating South Africa Women by 14 runs in a thrilling T20 International match at the Wanderers in Johannesburg on Saturday evening. Sent in to bat after losing the toss for the fourth time in the series, India posted a competitive 185 for five from their 20 overs. However. Deepti took 5 wickets for the loss of just 19 runs and restricted the Proteas to 171 for nine in response. The final match in the series will take place tomorrow at Willowmoore Park in Benoni.

And, soccer: South African football legend Benni McCarthy has been honored with a Rovers Honor Cap by Blackburn Rovers at their 150th anniversary gala dinner at Ewood Park. McCarthy was honoured for his contribution between 2006 and 2010 after scoring 52 goals in 141 appearances. He was recognised alongside Alan Shearer, Craig Short, Charlie Mulgrew, Craig Conway, Roger Jones, and Phil Jones. The event celebrated the club’s rich history and featured several former stars. Proceeds will support the Blackburn Rovers Former Players Association, recognising past players and their lasting impact on the club’s legacy.

Stay tuned for more news………….