News 13:00

BULLETIN 1 December 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# President Ramaphosa backs the multiparty process on the BELA Act
# Godongwana supports Postbank’s transition to a state bank
# And rugby: New Zealand end Blitzboks’ run in Dubai with a painful defeat

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has affirmed the importance of inclusive discussions on the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act. He delayed implementation of sections 4 and 5, addressing language and admission policies, for three months to allow further deliberations. Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya says Ramaphosa has emphasised the need for ongoing multiparty talks. He said that Ramaphosa reiterated his commitment to transformative education reforms:

# Finance minister Enoch Godongwana confirmed efforts to fund Postbank for a state bank aimed at affordable financial services for the poor and unbanked. Addressing members of parliament, Godongwana noted discussions with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies regarding funding and licensing progress. The minister said that while Postbank is yet to secure a Reserve Bank licence, legislative groundwork has been laid. He emphasised that the state bank is poised to bring more competition to South Africa’s banking sector.

# Three cash-in-transit robbery suspects were fatally shot during a gunfight with law enforcement in Kwa-Thema, Ekurhuleni yesterday. Three others were arrested, and police seized rifles, a pistol, and ammunition. According to a police report, a multi-agency team intercepted the suspects at a safe house. Two stolen vehicles were also recovered. A manhunt is underway for fleeing suspects, while those arrested will appear in court soon facing face multiple charges.

# The SA Rugby Union will address Parliament’s portfolio committee on sport, arts, and culture this coming week regarding a proposed deal to sell a stake in Springbok commercial rights to US firm Ackerley Sports Group. SA Rugby president Mark Alexander says they aim to secure a sustainable agreement through their value proposition, ensuring long-term benefits for South African rugby while maintaining its integrity:

On the field, South Africa’s dream of making it to the semi-finals of the Dubai Sevens were shattered when they lost 24-17 to New Zealand in the quarterfinals this morning. A brace of tries by Ngarohi McGarvey-Black and Sofai Maka condemned the Blitzboks to their first quarterfinal defeat in six attempts against New Zealand. The win was the All Blacks’ first against South Africa in the Dubai cup quarterfinals since the 2007/2008 event when the Blitzboks took their first steps to breaking New Zealand’s hegemony at the time. The teams were even 7-all at half-time.

Stay tuned for more news………….