News 13:00

BULLETIN 4th January

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:
# The EFF says US military invasion in Venezuela is an imperial aggression
# Motorists are warned against on-the-spot fine payments at roadblocks
# And China taxes condoms and contraceptive drugs in a bid to spur birth rate

# The EFF has condemned the United States’ military action in Venezuela, describing President Donald Trump’s rhetoric as reckless and arrogant. The party says the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife reflects Washington’s disregard for international law. Trump has accused Maduro of running a narco-terrorist organisation, with the couple now indicted in New York. The EFF argues the move is driven by oil interests, violates Venezuela’s sovereignty, sets a dangerous global precedent, and amounts to imperial aggression against the Global South.

Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed that the United Kingdom was not involved in the US military operation in Venezuelaanad the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia. Trump has since announced the swearing in of vice president Delcy Rodriguez. Starmer also confirmed that the UK embassy is safeguarding British citizens in the country:

# The National Motorist Association of South Africa has warned motorists that they are not legally obliged to pay traffic fines at roadblocks. This caution comes as many travellers return home from festivities. The association says it has received numerous complaints as nine out of ten motorists are being intimidated or threatened with arrest if they don’t pay fines immediately. CEO Bobby Gage says on-the-spot payment is not a legal requirement:

# Two people have died after a lightning strike during the annual Mphebatho Troop Festival in Dertig, North West , yesterday afternoon. The victims’ identities have not yet been released, pending notification of their families. More than 50 people are receiving medical treatment at the Mathibestad Clinic and Jubilee Hospital in Hammanskraal. Moretele municipality spokesperson Mothupi Malebye says the strike occurred during the outdoor event. Authorities have urged the public to take precautions during severe weather conditions.

# Soccer: Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has promised to show no mercy when South Africa faces Cameroon tonight at 9 in the Africa Cup of Nations last-16 clash in Rabat, Morrocco. Broos, who led the five-times champions to AFCON glory in 2017, says he targets victory for South Africa. Bafana need a win to reach the quarterfinals. Broos has also voiced frustration over long travel times to training:

#  And finally, China removed a three-decade-old tax exemption on contraceptive drugs and devices from January 1 in new steps to spur a flagging birth rate. China exempted childcare subsidies from personal income tax and rolled out an annual childcare subsidy last year. This followed a series of “fertility-friendly” measures in 2024, such as urging colleges and universities to provide “love education” to portray marriage, love, fertility, and family in a positive light. China’s birth rates have been falling for decades as a result of the one-child policy China implemented from 1980 to 2015, and rapid urbanisation.

Stay tuned for more news………….