Morning Newspaper Report

The headlines of the leading newspapers on 22 January 2026:

NATIONAL:

# Business Day:

Reports the testimony of former head of the Independent Police Investigation Directorate, Robert McBride, has been called into question after the Member of Parliament for ActionSA, Dereleen James, presented explosive documents that contradicted his previous statements. She says McBride lied to protect private forensic investigator, Paul O’Sullivan.

# And the Netwerk24 website:

Firstly, reports the High Court in Pretoria heard evidence that a midwife, Yolandé Maritz-Fouchee’s alleged negligent actions led to a baby being stillborn on 12 August 2020. In addition to this incident, Maritz-Fouchee is facing eleven other charges.

Secondly, the website writes criminal law expert, Dr. Llewelyn Curlewis, is of the opinion that the driver of the taxi in which 12 learners died can be charged with murder.

And finally, it is reported that president Donald Trump has dropped his threats to impose tariffs to pressure his annexation of Greenland.

GAUTENG:

# The Star:

Writes drunk drivers may lose their driving licences for life in the future.

Secondly, it is reported that a candlelight vigil was held for the 12 learners who died in the Vanderbijlpark accident.

And finally, there is news of a taxi driver protest over their vehicles being impounded by the Johannesburg Metro Police.

# Sowetan:

Reports married couples will have to get court permission in the future if they want to change their marital agreement after lobola has been paid.

# And The Citizen:

Writes the management of the Johannesburg Metro is in disarray, with the city manager, Floyd Brink, ignoring the mayor, Dada Morero and supporting the new regional chairperson of the ANC, Loyiso Masuku. There are also questions about Brink’s alleged provision of buses for an ANC event.

WESTERN CAPE:

# Die Burger:

Reports 53-year-old artist Bevan van Druten has appeared in court in Plettenberg Bay in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, former detective Nicky van Heerden. Her body was found near Keurboom Strand next to her vehicle.

Secondly, the paper writes about a 71-year-old athlete who ran ten marathons in ten days.

And finally, it is reported according to figures that have been made available, 177-thousand emergencies were reported over the festive period in the Western Cape.

EASTERN CAPE:

# The Herald in Gqeberha:

Reports there are many councillors of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro who owe money on arrears in service and electricity bills.

And secondly, the paper also writes about the court appearance of Bevan van Druten.

KWAZULU-NATAL:

# The Witness in Pietermaritzburg:

Writes there is strong opposition to the tariff increases that the Msunduzi municipality wants to impose.

And reports like Sowetan about the amendments to the change of marriage conditions.

And finally from NAMIBIA:

# Republikein in Windhoek:

Reports there are concerns about psychiatric and TB patients who are reportedly being cared for in the same ward at the Otjiwarongo District Hospital.

And secondly, the paper writes Bank Windhoek is suing Namcor chief Immanuel Mulunga for a 1.39-million-rand debt and wants to seize his house and bakkie.