News 17:00

BULLETIN 24 June 5 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# A political analyst explains government continues to function amid a cabinet absence
# Tshwane fulfils its commitment to help eradicate the mosquito infestation in Winterveld and Soshanguve 
# And rugby: The injured Cameron Hanekom could miss the Ireland series 

# Political analyst Mashupye Maserumule says despite the waiting for president Cyril Ramaphosa’s new cabinet, South Africa’s government continues to operate. Maserumule says this is made possible by director-generals of departments who ensure the seamless transition of public services. The sixth administration’s political executive ceased last Wednesday when Ramaphosa was inaugurated. Maserumule explains that, while this arrangement is not ideal, it is necessary. The ANC has confirmed that ten parties have signed the government of national unity statement of intent.

# The City of Tshwane says it has commenced with a phased intervention to eradicate the mosquito infestation in Winterveld and Soshanguve. The mosquito infestation has negatively affected the quality of life of residents. Mayoral committee member for Health, Rina Marx says the first phase to eradicate the infestation involved the drone application of larvicide in Soshanguve bordering the Tswaing Crater where large pools of stagnant water were observed:

# Kenya’s president William Ruto is ready to engage in dialogue with thousands of young protesters who demonstrated against proposed tax increases. The country’s finance bill, which has undergone a second reading in Parliament, would raise taxes for many already struggling with the cost of living. Speaking in Nyahururu, Ruto expressed his willingness to talk to young people to build a greater nation:

# Rugby: Cameron Hanekom is set to miss the opportunity to make his Test debut when the Springboks host Ireland in a two-Test series next month after suffering a hamstring injury in the Bulls’ URC final. He limped off early in the second half against Glasgow Warriors. With Jasper Wiese suspended for the series, Hanekom could have gotten his chance. But the 22-year-old is unlikely to recover in time for the Tests, which start at Loftus Versfeld on 6 July.

# Financial indicators: The dollar trades at 18-rand-22-cents and the euro at 19-rand-56-cents. One British pound costs 23-rand-8-cents and Bitcoin trades at 60-thousand-998-dollars-17-cents. Gold sells at two-thousand-326-dollars-1-cent a fine ounce and Brent crude oil is quoted at 84-dollars-3-cents a barrel.

# And finally: The City of Cape Town has banned several street posters from the Sex Expo, deeming the artwork too provocative. The annual Sex Expo returns to the Cape Town International Convention Centre this week on Thursday. The event, known for its playful and cheeky billboards, faced public complaints leading to the removal of certain elements. Last year, similar objections were raised, prompting the removal of semi-nude posters. The Sex Expo is open only to people 18 years and older and will run until 30 June.

Stay tuned for more news………….