News 07:00

BULLETIN 2 May 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# President Ramaphosa engages regularly with the Madlanga Commission on its progress
# Minister Manamela unveils a 443-billion-rand budget for Higher Education
# And athletics: South Africa is ready to defend its titles at the 2026 World Relay Championships

# President Cyril Ramaphosa says he remains in regular contact with the Madlanga Commission’s chairperson, Mbuyiseli Madlanga, regarding progress in its investigation into alleged political interference in the justice system. Ramaphosa says timelines have been set and slightly extended, with ongoing discussions around the commission’s needs. He expressed confidence the commission will deliver, emphasising that government continues to support its work and ensure accountability:

# Higher Education minister Buti Manamela has outlined a 443-billion-rand budget over the medium term for the 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan to Parliament. Manamela says the plan supports a skills revolution aimed at improving student success, expanding TVET colleges, strengthening the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, and boosting artisan training. He acknowledged Auditor-General concerns, saying corrective action is underway. The department says the focus is on measurable outcomes, accountability, and linking education to job creation and economic growth.

# The Gauteng Traffic Police are urging the public to prioritise safety this long weekend. Authorities expect increased travel and social activity across the province during the long weekend. Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Sello Maremane has advised motorists to obey road rules, avoid drunk driving, and ensure vehicles are roadworthy, as law enforcement will increase patrols to ensure road safety:

# # The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has congratulated Johnstone Makhubu on his appointment as head of the South African Revenue Service. His five-year term started yesterday. The movement has called for decisive action against tax base erosion, illicit financial flows, and transfer pricing. It also urged reforms in digital tax collection, VAT compliance, and institutional integrity. Mayibuye emphasised the need to modernise systems and strengthen public trust. He expressed that a strong SARS is vital for economic growth and service delivery.

# Hundreds of protesters clashed with Australian emergency services workers in a remote town following the alleged murder of a five-year-old Indigenous girl. The girl was reported missing from her home on the outskirts of Alice Springs late on Saturday. Her body was found on Thursday. The man who allegedly killed the girl was taken into police custody ⁠after being found by locals and badly beaten. Australia has struggled for decades to reconcile with its Indigenous population, who have inhabited the land for some 50-thousand years but were marginalised by British colonial rulers.

# And athletics: Team South Africa is set to defend its global titles at the 2026 World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, starting this afternoon. South Africa is the defending champion in the men’s 4×100 metres and 4×400 metres events. Although missing key athletes like Wayde van Niekerk due to injury, stars such as Akani Simbine and Zakithi Nene will lead the charge. Beyond medals, the team aims to secure qualification for the 2026 World Athletics Championships to be held in September in Hungary.

Stay tuned for more news………….