News 13:00

BULLETIN 27 April 1 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Police’s supply chain head faces suspension
# Edward Kieswetter says competence must outweigh cadre deployment in leadership
# And cricket: South Africa and India’s women meet in the final T20 in Benoni

# South African Police Service supply chain head Molefe Fani has been issued with a notice of intention to suspend over his alleged role in a controversial health services tender. This follows findings by the Special Investigating Unit into his time as acting chief procurement official at National Treasury. The report points to alleged procurement irregularities, wasteful expenditure and conflicts of interest. Fani is linked to a committee that awarded a 360-million-rand tender to controversial businessman Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.

# Outgoing South African Revenue Service commissioner Edward Kieswetter says there is nothing inherently wrong with cadre deployment, as all political parties appoint members to positions. But he warns it should not be the sole criterion for leadership selection. Kieswetter stresses that competence, skills and performance must come first, arguing prioritising capable leaders ultimately serves citizens better, regardless of political affiliation or party membership in government and public institutions. He will officially complete the hand-over process to incoming commissioner Johnstone Makhubu on Thursday.

# The Gauteng Care Crisis Committee has raised alarm over a worsening non-governmental organisation funding crisis, warning essential services are at risk. Many organisations have not received subsidies from the provincial Department of Social Development. Committee chairperson Lisa Vetten told Newzroom Afrika delays and system failures could collapse shelters, care homes and rehabilitation centres. She calls for urgent intervention to prevent severe impact on vulnerable communities:

# Cricket: South Africa and India’s women meet in the fifth and final T20 in Benoni, Gauteng, this afternoon. The Proteas already clinched the series with convincing victories in the first two encounters in Durban, and the third at the Wanderers, before the visitors bounced back with a 14-run victory in the penultimate game, also in Johannesburg. Today sees the final action for the hostesses before starting their T20 World Cup campaign in England against Australia on the 13th of June.

# And finally: Union federation COSATU says many citizens are struggling under the high cost of living despite 32-years of democracy. Spokesperson Nonzuzo Dlamini says while political freedom has been achieved, socio-economic challenges remain severe. Rising costs of basic services, debt and unemployment continue to burden the working class, as youth unemployment remains critically high. Dlamini calls for urgent reforms to ensure affordable living conditions and economic relief:

Stay tuned for more news………….