News 13:00

BULLETIN 9 August 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# South Africa marks 70 years since the historic Women’s march
# The ANC in Joburg rejects a poll showing the DA is in the lead
# And Donald Trump’s ex-lawyer is confirmed as US attorney general

# Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi has honoured women making a difference in communities as South Africa marks 70 years since the historic 1956 Women’s March. More than 20-thousand women marched to the Union Buildings against apartheid pass laws imposed on Black women. Speaking at a Women’s Day celebration in Pretoria, Lesufi described the protest as a symbol of courage and resistance. He says South Africa must take a firm national stance against gender-based violence and femicide:

# National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has referred an ANC communication on the recommended appointment of Advocate Thandazani Madonsela as evidence leader to the Section 89 Impeachment Committee. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula disclosed that Madonsela had previously provided legal advice to the ANC on Section 89 rules and processes. Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo says the disclosure is not an objection to Madonsela’s appointment. The committee will consider the matter:

# The Home Affairs Department and Border Management Authority say operations at the Musina repatriation centre have been scaled down. Authorities say the number of undocumented migrants being verified and processed at the centre has declined. The reduction follows a decrease in the number of people requiring processing at the facility. Home Affairs and the BMA say they continue to monitor the situation and manage immigration processes, including verification and repatriation, in line with applicable procedures. 

# The ANC Greater Joburg Region has rejected a Social Research Foundation poll showing the DA with 42-percent support in Johannesburg, compared with 18-percent for the ANC. The party questions the poll’s independence and wants its methodology, and commissioning details released. ANC spokesperson Mantombi Nkosi acknowledges residents’ concerns over service delivery, crime, unemployment and corruption. She emphasised mobilisation across all 135 wards ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections will be intensified:

# US President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer Todd Blanche has been narrowly confirmed as attorney general – the nation’s top law enforcement official. The vote brings to an end a lengthy standoff between Senate Republicans and the Trump administration over Blanche, who has served as acting attorney general since April. Blanche won confirmation in a 50-49 vote overnight, with two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, joining all Democrats to oppose his nomination. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer responded saying Todd Blanche has no intention of stopping Trump’s corruption.

# And soccer: Orlando Pirates have reached the MTN8 semi-finals after beating Durban City FC 2-1 in extra time at the Orlando Arena. Patrick Maswanganyi opened the score from the penalty spot in the first half after Durban City’s Brooklyn Poggenpoel was sent off. City equalised through Jean Lwamba before new signing Gamphani Lungu struck a late winner with a superb volley. The defending champions now move closer to securing a fifth MTN8 title.

Stay tuned for more news………….