News 07:00

BULLETIN 12 September 7 am

Good morning. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# A sixth deadline extension is granted to Parliament’s ad hoc committee
# AfriForum warns that the proposed illegal-mining laws may be difficult to enforce
# And: Putin criticises Western sanctions at the BRICS business summit

# Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating allegations of corruption and political interference in the criminal justice system has until 30 October to finalise its report. This is the committee’s sixth extension since it concluded in-person testimony in March. The relationship between businessman Brown Mogotsi and Police minister Senzo Mchunu, who is on special leave, remains a key issue. The DA says there may have been an intermediary who helped businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala gain access to Mchunu.

# AfriForum says proposed laws to tackle illegal mining will only work if the government has enough capacity to enforce them. The organisation supports tougher penalties, including up to 30 years in prison for some offences, but warns new small-scale mining permits could help criminal groups hide mining outside approved areas or sell illegally mined minerals. AfriForum’s Marais de Vaal calls for stronger law-enforcement systems before new mining permits are introduced:

# The City of Johannesburg says the 192-million-rand Lilian Ngoyi Street rehabilitation project is more than 75-percent complete and remains on track for reopening in October 2026. Mayor Dada Morero says the 1.8-kilometre transport corridor required extensive underground infrastructure work following the 2023 methane gas explosion. Engineers excavated up to five metres to rebuild the foundation and install water, electricity and other services. The Johannesburg Roads Agency says major works should be completed ahead of the October reopening.

Meanwhile, Build One South Africa says the project should be investigated for possible corruption. BOSA raised the call while unveiling its election posters ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. The party says the project raises serious questions about public spending and accountability. BOSA is using the launch to position itself as a fresh alternative in Johannesburg, promising stronger oversight, competent governance and improved municipal services for residents.

# Russian president Vladimir Putin has blamed Western sanctions for industrial decline and growing economic pressure. Speaking via an interpreter at the BRICS business forum leaders’ dialogue in New Delhi, India, Putin said sanctions had contributed to falling industrial output, growing public debt and budget problems. He called on BRICS countries to strengthen trade, investment and business cooperation, citing Russia remains open to working with partners around the world:

# And cricket: South Africa have taken an unassailable two-nil lead in their three-match ODI series against Namibia after a 157-run victory in Windhoek. Connor Esterhuizen struck a maiden ODI century, making 119, while Tony de Zorzi added 79 as the Proteas posted 335 for nine. Namibia were then bowled out for 178, with Duan Jansen taking four wickets and Eathan Bosch claiming three. South Africa had won the opening match by 99 runs, giving them a dominant start to the series. The final ODI will be played tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more news………….