News 13:00

BULLETIN 22 June 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# RISE Mzansi joins the government of national unity
# City of Joburg and City Power will appeal a court ruling favouring Eskom
# And, rugby: The Springboks face Wales with lots of experience despite some new faces

# RISE Mzansi has signed the government of national unity statement of intent. This follows consultations after the elections, where no party secured an absolute majority. The party commits to collaborating with the new government and in a national dialogue to address the country’s pressing needs. Party leader Songezo Zibi strives to amplify voter voices and push forward their people’s manifesto to fulfil election promises:

# The City of Johannesburg and City Power will appeal the Johannesburg High Court’s decision favouring Eskom in a payment dispute. The City claims critical evidence was overlooked. Despite attempts at mediation, Eskom took the matter to court. Spokesperson Isaac Mangena says Eskom owes City Power 3.4-billion-rand, complicating the dispute. He says the legal teams has lodged the appeal, hoping for a different outcome:

# The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein ruled that metros cannot cut off electricity without first investigating billing complaints. This follows the City of Tshwane’s attempt to disconnect plastics manufacturer, Glofurn, over a disputed bill of 766-thousand-rand. The court criticised the city’s dismissive attitude and set a precedent that affirms residents’ rights to challenge bills before going to court. Tshwane faces a financial crisis with 20.5-billion-rand owed by nonpayers. The court states disputes must be fully investigated before metros can cut off basic services such as electricity.

# Rugby: The Springboks play their first Test since winning the World Cup in dramatic fashion in France last year. They face Wales at Twickenham in London at 3pm. Wales captain Dewi Lake has insisted as underdogs they will relish the challenge of taking on the world champions. Wales have lost their last six Tests, which included a Six Nations wooden spoon. South Africa’s starting 15 led by Pieter-Steph du Toit has 343 caps more than Wales coach Warren Gatland’s team.

# And, on a happy note: A pet donkey that escaped his owners in California five years ago has been found living with a herd of wild elk. Terrie and Dave Drewry’s pet donkey Diesel was spooked and took off during a hiking trip in 2019. Weeks of searching proved fruitless, and the last time he was seen was on a trail camera a few months later. A hiker spotted the happy donkey with the herd of elk earlier this month and posted a video on social media. The couple recognised Diesel but decided to leave him living as a wild burro.

Stay tuned for more news………….