News 13:00

BULLETIN 31 May 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Ramaphosa describes the struggle icon Shope’s legacy a cornerstone of the nation’s democratic journey
# A suspect in the Olorato Mongale murder case hands himself over to police
# And, World No Tobacco Day 2025 celebrated as industry tactics are unmasked to attract young users

# President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the funeral of freedom fighter and ANC stalwart Gertrude Shope as both a sad and celebratory moment. Speaking at her service, Ramaphosa honoured her nearly ten-decade-long life as a monumental contribution to South Africa’s democracy. He praised Shope’s role in shaping the Constitution and her leadership within the ANC Women’s League, calling her legacy a cornerstone of the nation’s democratic journey:

# A suspect linked to the murder of 30-year-old Olorato Mongale has handed himself over at KwaMashu police station. Mongale’s body was found in Lombardy West, Johannesburg, after she went on a date with her alleged killer. Police confirmed two suspects were already in custody, while Philangenkosi Makhanya was killed in a shootout yesterday. Authorities continue to search for a third suspect, believed to have fled to Zimbabwe. Mongale’s funeral is set for tomorrow in Bloemfontein.

# Today marks World No Tobacco Day 2025. The World Health Organisation and global health advocates are spotlighting the deceptive tactics used by the tobacco and nicotine industry to attract especially young users. This year’s theme, Unmasking the Appeal, calls for awareness and stronger policies, including a ban on flavourings to curb the rise of tobacco use. The campaign urges urgent action to protect youth and safeguard public health worldwide.

Meanwhile, Maldivian president Mohamed Muizzu has received the World No-Tobacco Day Special Recognition Award from the World Health Organisation for his leadership in tobacco control. WHO director-general Tedros Ghebreyesus praised Muizzu’s commitment to public health. Under his leadership, the Maldives banned e-cigarettes, raised the tobacco age to 21, and expanded smoke-free zones. Ghebreyesus also welcomed Maldives launch of free cessation programmes and increased tobacco taxes to reduce access and save lives:

# Rugby: For a second successive season the Stormers URC campaign was ended by the Glasgow Warriors. They were defeated 36 -18 in the quarterfinals at the Scotstoun stadium last night. Coach John Dobson called it there worst performance in recent years as they were error prone and disjointed. Dobson said huge credit must however go the Warriors for their excellent defence. The onslaught unleashed by Franco Smith’s team was brutal. Losing skipper Salman Morat due to an injury also did not help the Stormers.

# And finally, the Tshwane Traffic Police Department has urged motorists to avoid roads around Loftus Versfeld Stadium today, due to the rugby clash between the Vodacom Bulls and Edinburgh at 1.30 pm. Streets including Farenden, Park, Lynnwood, and Kirkness will be closed until 6pm. Alternative routes include Francis Baard, Pretorius, and Stanza Bopape Streets. Tshwane Metro Police and SAPS officers will be on-site to monitor traffic and ensure public safety.

Stay tuned for more news………….