News 09:00
BULLETIN 5 May 9 am
Good morning. I am……..
In this bulletin:
# Defend Our Democracy calls for election observers
# UDM wants greater LGBTQIA+ rights protection amid ongoing discrimination
# And, tennis: Swiatek saves three championship points to win the Madrid Open title
# Defend Our Democracy has called on organisations and individuals to become election observers, contributing to election integrity. With 24 days until the general elections, citizens are encouraged to oversee the process. The organisation’s Zaakirah Vadi says through the Election Watch campaign launched last November, observers across the country will share feedback via a common app system, enhancing the assessment of electoral integrity:
In another development the United Democratic Movement is concerned over the continued discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ people across Africa. UDM secretary-general, Yongama Zigebe, says, while legal recognition is progressing, discrimination persists, with issues, including corrective rape and hate crimes, remaining prevalent. Zigebe says the UDM calls for an LGBTQIA+ inclusive curriculum in schools to promote diversity and community participation:
# The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union have welcomed the arrest of two suspects in the murder case of constable Jairus Johua Govender on the N2 near Scottburgh in KwaZulu-Natal. Popcru highlights the alarming trend of attacks on law enforcement officers, with 92 officers losing their lives in 2023. It emphasises the urgent need for improved safety measures and calls for the killing of police officers to be declared a crime against the state. The union also advocates for legislative amendments to ensure harsher penalties for offenders.
# The World Health Organisation has reported a slight improvement in the availability of food in the Gaza Strip, but warns that the risk of famine remains. WHO representatives noted an increase in basic and diversified food, particularly in the north, where the situation had been most dire. However, the food situation remains fragile, with the population lacking the cash to purchase food. The threat of famine persists, exacerbated by the destruction of local food production during the war.
# And, tennis: Top-ranked Iga Swiatek avenged her loss to Aryna Sabalenka in last year’s Madrid final by defeating the world number two to clinch her first title in the Spanish capital after a gruelling three-hour and eleven minute battle last night. Coming back from 1-3 down in the decider and saving three championship points in total, Swiatek claimed a 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 victory to secure the trophy. Swiatek has won her last eight consecutive finals and now joins Elena Rybakina with 30 victories this season.
Stay tuned for more news………….