South Africa's upcoming national elections on May 29 will be a critical test for democracy, particularly for the 'born frees,' a generation that never experienced apartheid. The African National Congress (ANC), which has been in power since the end of apartheid, faces the possibility of receiving less than 50% of the vote due to corruption scandals and high youth unemployment. Tess Dooms from Rivonia Circle notes the disillusionment among young people with democracy itself. While some born frees, like Tshepiso Mpele, refuse to vote as a form of protest, others like Unanthi Mzileni and Cameron Smith are considering voting, despite the unfulfilled promises of democracy. The election will be a chance for this generation to potentially change South Africa's course.

South Africa's upcoming national elections on May 29 could see significant influence from the 'born frees,' a generation that grew up post-apartheid. Despite the historic transition to democracy and Nelson Mandela's presidency, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) faces disillusionment due to corruption, service delivery failures, and high youth unemployment. Opinion polls suggest the ANC may fall below 50% for the first time, potentially leading to a coalition government. Young South Africans express mixed feelings about voting, with some viewing it as an endorsement of corruption and others considering participation to realize the dream of democracy. The election will test whether this generation will turn out to vote and possibly alter the country's political trajectory.

South Africa's upcoming national elections on May 29 could see significant influence from the 'born frees,' a generation born after apartheid. Despite the African National Congress (ANC) being in power for three decades, many young South Africans are disillusioned with democracy due to high unemployment, inequality, and corruption. While some young voters like Tshepiso Mpele view voting as an endorsement of corruption, others like Unanthi Mzileni and Cameron Smith are considering participating to effect change. The election will test the potential impact of this generation on South Africa's political landscape.

Johannesburg, known as Africa's richest city, is facing a severe water shortage affecting half of its supply area amid a summer heat wave. The shortage, lasting nearly two weeks, has impacted businesses and hospitals, with some unable to maintain basic hygiene practices. The crisis was triggered by a power outage at a pump station on March 3, but is also attributed to aged infrastructure and maintenance issues. Authorities have faced criticism and small protests over perceived incompetence. Johannesburg Water admitted to human error with a closed valve, which has since been opened to aid recovery. The city's water issues are occurring concurrently with a national energy crisis, characterized by frequent blackouts. Water tankers have been deployed across the city as most systems are now in recovery.

In 2024, more than half the world, including 18 African nations, will hold elections, with South Africa's National Congress party facing its most significant challenge since apartheid ended. Despite President Cyril Ramaphosa's confidence, the ANC's popularity has declined due to corruption, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a new coalition, the Multi-Party Charter, are key challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, signaling a shift in the political landscape.

In 2024, more than half the world, including 18 African nations, will hold elections. South Africa's National Congress party, once led by Nelson Mandela, faces its most significant electoral challenge since apartheid ended in 1994. Polls indicate the ANC may receive less than 50% of the vote. President Cyril Ramaphosa remains confident in retaining the majority despite concerns over corruption, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition known as the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, causing a stir. The ANC's dwindling support is attributed to governance issues and economic challenges.

In 2024, more than half the world will participate in elections, with South Africa's National Congress party facing its most significant electoral challenge since apartheid ended in 1994. The ANC, once led by Nelson Mandela, may lose its majority, as polls show support below 50%. President Cyril Ramaphosa remains confident in retaining the majority despite concerns over corruption, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition under the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, causing a stir. The ANC's decline in popularity is attributed to governance issues and the perceived inaction of Ramaphosa.

In 2024, more than half the world will participate in elections, with South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) facing its most significant challenge since the end of apartheid. The ANC, once led by Nelson Mandela, may lose its majority, with President Cyril Ramaphosa expressing confidence in retaining it despite private concerns. Factors contributing to the ANC's waning popularity include corruption scandals, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition known as the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, distancing himself from the ANC.

In 2024, over half the world will participate in elections, with South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) facing its most significant challenge since the end of apartheid. Polls indicate the ANC may receive less than 50% of the vote, a decline from previous elections. President Cyril Ramaphosa remains publicly confident, but the party is concerned about corruption scandals, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition known as the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, causing a stir. The ANC's legacy and Ramaphosa's initial popularity are contrasted with current dissatisfaction and the potential for increased political competition.

In 2024, more than half the world, including South Africa, will hold elections. South Africa's African National Congress (ANC), once led by Nelson Mandela, faces significant electoral challenges. Polls suggest the ANC may receive less than 50% of the vote for the first time since apartheid ended. Factors such as corruption, high unemployment, and energy crises contribute to the ANC's declining popularity. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition known as the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, causing a stir. President Cyril Ramaphosa's efforts to clean up the ANC have been criticized for lack of action.

In 2024, more than half the world will participate in elections, with South Africa's National Congress party facing its most significant electoral challenge since the end of apartheid. Multiple polls indicate the ANC may receive less than 50% of the vote. President Cyril Ramaphosa remains confident in retaining the majority despite concerns over corruption, high unemployment, and energy crises. The Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition of seven opposition parties forming the Multi-Party Charter are main challengers. Former President Jacob Zuma has endorsed a new opposition party, causing a stir. Reporter Kate Bartlett from Johannesburg provides insights into the upcoming elections and the political climate.

More than half the world, including 18 African nations, will hold elections in 2024. South Africa's ruling National Congress party (ANC) faces its most competitive election since the end of apartheid, with polls indicating a drop below 50% support. President Cyril Ramaphosa remains publicly confident but the party is concerned about corruption scandals, high unemployment, and an energy crisis. The main challengers include the Democratic Alliance, the Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition of seven opposition parties. Former President Jacob Zuma has also backed a new opposition party, further complicating the political landscape.

In 2024, more than half the world will participate in elections, with South Africa's National Congress party facing its most competitive challenge since the end of apartheid. Despite President Cyril Ramaphosa's confidence, the ANC's support has dwindled due to corruption scandals, high unemployment, and an energy crisis. The main opposition includes the Democratic Alliance, the Economic Freedom Fighters, and a coalition of seven parties under the Multi-Party Charter. Former President Jacob Zuma has also backed a new opposition party, further complicating the political landscape.

The International Court of Justice is set to hold hearings on whether to issue an interim order against Israel's actions in Gaza, following South Africa's charge of genocide. South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation has cited ongoing reports of crimes against humanity and potential genocide. Legal experts anticipate a lengthy process to prove genocide, but the immediate hearings seek urgent relief. The case reflects South Africa's historical solidarity with the Palestinian people, rooted in the African National Congress's own liberation struggle and its relationship with Palestinian movements. Former President Nelson Mandela's support for Palestinian freedom is highlighted, underscoring the depth of the connection.

South Africa is set to present a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. Israel refutes the allegations, with a hearing scheduled for the following day. South Africa's apartheid history influences its support for Palestinians, a sentiment echoed by former President Nelson Mandela. The ANC, South Africa's ruling party, has historical ties with the Palestinian cause and has not forgotten Israel's support for the apartheid regime. Following recent conflicts, South African parliamentarians voted to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel, and President Ramaphosa used the term 'genocide' to describe Israel's actions. The case filed by South Africa alleges that Israel's actions in Gaza are genocidal, with a death toll exceeding 23,000. Legal experts suggest a ruling could take years, but the ICJ could issue an interim measure for a cease-fire, which Israel might ignore. The case highlights South Africa's influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support between the Palestinians and South Africa's ANC, contrasted by Israel's past arms sales to the apartheid regime. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza. The death toll in Gaza has exceeded 23,000, while over 1,200 Israelis were killed since the October 7 Hamas attacks. Legal experts suggest a ruling could take years, but the ICJ could issue an interim measure for a cease-fire. South Africa's move highlights its influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support between the Palestinians and South Africa's ANC, contrasted with Israel's past arms sales to the apartheid regime. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza. The death toll in Gaza has risen sharply following Israeli bombings in response to Hamas attacks. While an ICJ ruling could take years, interim measures could be ordered, though Israel may ignore them. The case highlights South Africa's influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support for the Palestinian liberation by South Africa, including ties with the PLO. South Africa's ANC has not forgotten Israel's arms sales to the apartheid regime. The recent conflict escalation after Hamas attacks and Israel's response has led to a significant death toll in Gaza. South Africa's legal action could lead to an interim measure from the ICJ, although enforcement may be challenging due to potential U.S. vetoes in the Security Council.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support for the Palestinian liberation by South Africa and the ANC, which contrasts with Israel's past arms sales to the apartheid regime. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza. The death toll in Gaza has risen sharply following Israeli bombings in response to Hamas attacks. While a ruling on genocide could take years, the ICJ could issue an interim measure for a cease-fire, which Israel might ignore. South Africa's move could demonstrate its influence on the global stage.

South Africa has filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza. Israel rejects the allegations, with a hearing set for the case. South Africa's apartheid history influences its support for the Palestinian cause, with ties to the Palestinian Liberation Organization. The ANC has not forgotten Israel's arms sales to the apartheid regime. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions. Legal experts suggest a ruling could take years, but an interim measure could be issued for a cease-fire. South Africa may seek recourse through the Security Council if Israel disobeys ICJ orders, although U.S. vetoes are a potential obstacle.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. South Africa's support for Palestine dates back to the ANC's struggle against apartheid, with Mandela expressing solidarity with the PLO. The recent conflict escalation after Hamas attacks and Israel's response has led to a significant death toll in Gaza. South Africa has filed a case with the ICJ, which could potentially issue a binding interim measure for a cease-fire, despite possible non-compliance by Israel and U.S. vetoes at the Security Council.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support between South Africa's ANC and the Palestinians, contrasted by Israel's past arms sales to the apartheid regime. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza. The death toll in Gaza has risen sharply following Israeli bombings in response to Hamas attacks. While an ICJ ruling could take years, interim measures could be sought, although Israel may not comply, and the U.S. has historically vetoed related Security Council resolutions.

South Africa has filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. The case is driven by South Africa's apartheid history and its solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel has dismissed the accusations as baseless. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 23,000 following Israeli bombings in response to Hamas attacks. The ICJ could potentially order a cease-fire, but Israel might ignore it. The case highlights South Africa's influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to accuse Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice, driven by its apartheid history and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Israel rejects the genocide claims as baseless. The case follows a history of support for the Palestinian liberation by South Africa and its first post-apartheid president, Nelson Mandela. South Africa's ANC has not forgotten Israel's arms sales to the apartheid regime. After recent violence between Hamas and Israel, South Africa voted to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel, and President Cyril Ramaphosa used the term 'genocide' to describe Israel's actions. The case filed by South Africa alleges that Israel's actions in Gaza are genocidal. Legal experts suggest that while a ruling could take years, the ICJ could issue an interim measure for a cease-fire, which Israel might ignore. The case highlights South Africa's influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to bring a landmark case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza. This move is driven by South Africa's apartheid history and long-standing support for Palestinian liberation. The case follows recent escalations in the Israel-Palestine conflict, with significant casualties reported in Gaza. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has labeled Israel's actions as genocide, and the case could lead to an interim measure for a cease-fire. However, enforcement challenges remain, particularly with potential U.S. vetoes in the Security Council.

South Africa is set to bring a landmark case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza. The case is driven by South Africa's apartheid history and long-standing support for Palestinian liberation. President Cyril Ramaphosa and other South African leaders have used strong language to condemn Israel's actions, which they describe as war crimes and genocide. The case could lead to an interim measure calling for a cease-fire, though enforcement challenges remain due to potential Security Council vetoes. The move underscores South Africa's influence on the global stage.

South Africa is set to bring a landmark case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza. The case is driven by South Africa's apartheid history and long-standing support for Palestinian liberation. President Cyril Ramaphosa and other officials have used strong language, including 'genocide,' to describe Israel's actions. The case could lead to an interim measure for a cease-fire, though enforcement challenges remain due to potential Security Council vetoes. The move underscores South Africa's influence on the global stage.

The Ellicottville Bake Shop, owned by Corey and Jennifer Hogan, has opened at 5 E Washington Street Suite 5A, offering a variety of freshly baked goods and breakfast sandwiches. The bakery aims to serve the local community with a cozy atmosphere and a focus on supporting local vendors and sustainability. The Hogans, inspired by their travels, have created a welcoming space with a dedicated team, including Head Baker Mark Notarpole and Pastry Chef Katie Cummings. The bakery will host several open houses to introduce themselves to the community.

In Johannesburg, South Africa, illegal miners known as 'zama zamas' endure dangerous conditions to extract gold, often working for criminal syndicates. The industry, worth billions, has seen a rise in violence and exploitation, with recent mass gang rapes drawing international attention. Police have been accused of complicity, and President Cyril Ramaphosa has not ruled out military deployment. The situation reflects a complex mix of economic desperation, crime, and the legacy of apartheid, with some South Africans and experts calling for a regulated inclusion of artisanal miners in the industry.