A legal challenge has been launched against the recognition of Chief Kgafela Kgafela II as the senior traditional leader of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela tribe, which spans Botswana and South Africa. This follows the Baloyi commission of inquiry's report, which affirmed Chief Kgafela II's authority to appoint the chief in Moruleng.

Sonke Telecommunications has expressed discontent with Icasa for delaying the Woan licensing process. Icasa had published a truncated timetable for the process on October 1. The delay has sparked criticism from stakeholders.

Convicted serial rapist Benjamin Bapela received three life terms and an additional 25-year imprisonment sentence, highlighting the justice served in South Africa.

Former Botswana President Ian Khama, currently in South Africa, expresses fear for his life, alleging that powerful individuals in Botswana plan to incarcerate him and orchestrate his mysterious death in jail. He claims the recent raids on his properties by Botswana's Directorate of Intelligence and Security are part of ongoing harassment.

Former US President Barack Obama criticized the Trump administration for delaying the US fight against climate change by pulling out of the Paris Agreement. Speaking at the COP26 in Glasgow, Obama highlighted the progress made despite Trump's actions and praised the Biden administration for recommitting to climate goals. He emphasized the need for more action globally, noting that while significant milestones have been reached, much more needs to be done to address the climate crisis.

At the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland, South Africa's Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Barbara Creecy stated that the country will not rush into new debt, emphasizing the importance of justice for workers in the coal sector and mining communities.

World leaders at COP26 are under pressure to turn their climate commitments into action, with activists and developing nations urging immediate and concrete steps. Key figures like Joe Biden and Boris Johnson emphasized the urgency of the climate crisis, while youth activist Elizabeth Wathuti shared a poignant story from Kenya to highlight the human impact. The conference aims to move beyond pledges to tangible actions, with a focus on achieving net zero emissions and limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The success of COP26 hinges on whether it can catalyze real change or remain a forum for speeches.

South Africa has secured a R131 billion partnership with Germany, France, the UK, and the US to support its transition from coal to a low-carbon economy. Announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa at COP26, the partnership aims to mobilize $8.5 billion over the next three to five years to fund renewable energy projects and the development of sectors like electric vehicles and green hydrogen. The initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure a just transition that does not leave coal industry workers jobless. Leaders from the partner countries, including Boris Johnson, Joe Biden, Emmanuel Macron, Angela Merkel, and Ursula von der Leyen, expressed strong support for the partnership, highlighting its potential to set a global precedent for similar initiatives.

A North West municipality in South Africa is accused of replacing highly qualified employees with individuals who only have a grade 11 or 12 certificate and lack relevant experience or skills. The union claims to have documents proving these allegations.

COP26, to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, will gather countries worldwide for two weeks to discuss strategies to mitigate the climate emergency, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions. South Africa plans to advocate for financial assistance from developed countries to address the climate crisis.

Rustenburg faces service delivery challenges, including a non-operational R3.3 billion Rustenburg Rapid Transport system and aging water and sanitation infrastructure. Residents of Tlhabane township experience water-logged potholes and illegal dumping sites. Outgoing Mayor Mpho Khunou acknowledges the issues but blames the community for not cooperating and maintaining public infrastructure. The RRT project is delayed due to compensation disputes with taxi operators. The municipality has invested in infrastructure, but problems persist, with residents like Margaret Lebese struggling with repeated pipe bursts.

Geoff Moeletsi, a community activist from Tlhabane, is running as an independent candidate for the Rustenburg Local Municipality. Known for highlighting service delivery issues on social media, Moeletsi aims to prioritize basic services like water, refuse removal, and sewage. He has a history of successful independent candidacies at North-West University and plans to hold mining companies accountable for their social labor commitments. Moeletsi is part of a group of independent candidates who will seek community mandates for council decisions, emphasizing service delivery as his primary focus.

Eight illegal miners, known as zama zamas, were killed in a shootout with police in North West, South Africa. The confrontation occurred as the miners, driven by dehydration and hunger, attempted to exit a sealed mine shaft. Police, alongside private security, were attacked by approximately 300 zama zamas. The incident follows a series of violent encounters and highlights the ongoing challenges of illegal mining in the region. Authorities arrested 35 suspects and recovered firearms and food parcels. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate is investigating the incident.

The Centre for Environmental Rights has commissioned two reports on the climate crisis, indicating that future generations will face severe impacts from climate change, including unusual weather and extreme heat.

Botswana citizens are increasingly traveling to South Africa for Covid-19 vaccinations due to slow roll-out and vaccine shortages in their own country. The Botswana government has not admitted these challenges, but many citizens are opting for vaccinations abroad. Assistant Minister of Health Sethomo Lelatisitswe acknowledged that South Africa and other countries are vaccinating foreign nationals, which is why Batswana are crossing borders. Despite a high acceptance rate for vaccines among the public, Botswana's vaccination progress remains slow, with significant supply issues. The World Health Organisation survey indicated a 76% acceptance rate for vaccinations in Botswana.

The ANC in the North West is set to issue a strict mandate to its MPLs to vote for Bushy Maape as the new premier following his swearing-in. The party's chief whip, Paul Sebegoe, has called for a compulsory meeting to ensure compliance. This move reflects the IPC's lack of trust in its MPLs to follow the party mandate. Maape is expected to succeed Job Mokgoro, who recently resigned. The DA plans to field its candidate, while the EFF is still consulting on its decision.

The ANC faces significant challenges in ensuring Bushy Maape is elected as the North West premier, amid concerns that some party MPLs may vote differently in a secret ballot. The DA has announced it will field its own candidate, adding to the complexity of the election process.

Dr David Motau, the CEO and registrar of the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA), is preparing to file an urgent court application to contest his second suspension by Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla. The suspension comes shortly after the reversal of Motau's initial suspension.

Following Job Mokgoro's resignation as North West premier, Finance MEC Motlalepula Rosho was appointed as acting premier. Despite the ANC's preference for Bushy Maape, procedural delays have prevented his immediate assumption of the role. The ANC is exploring ways to create a vacancy for Maape, amid concerns of potential reshuffling and internal opposition. Mokgoro's tenure was marked by challenges, including partial administration of provincial departments. The article highlights the complexities and internal dynamics within the ANC during this political transition.

The Socio-Economic Rights Institute of SA (Seri-SA) is urging the state to increase its compensation offer from R500,000 to R1.5 million per family for the victims of the Marikana massacre. The state has already paid out R170 million through various law firms but Seri-SA argues that the compensation should be individualized rather than per family. The state, represented by Solicitor-General Fhedzisani Pandelani, maintains that the offer is reasonable given budget constraints. The dispute remains unresolved and awaits court intervention.

The state of North West municipalities is the worst in South Africa, with 86% in financial distress. A cooperative governance committee meeting revealed that no municipality in the province is stable, with 10 categorized as dysfunctional and five candidates for dissolution. The province's Cooperative Governance MEC, Mmoloki Cwaile, indicated that the number of municipalities for dissolution might increase. Legal advice is being sought on dissolving the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality. Nationally, 64 municipalities are dysfunctional, with a comprehensive action plan developed to address these challenges, including short-term and long-term projects.

A 16-year-old boy and four adults have been arrested for the murders of police officers Constable Simon Ngakaemang Ntsekeletsa and Sergeant Mojalefa Horatius Molete in North West, South Africa. The suspects were apprehended 12 hours after the officers' charred bodies were found in a burnt-out police vehicle. The state will oppose bail for the accused, who face charges of murder, malicious damage to property, and possession of a stolen firearm. Community Safety MEC Sello Lehari and Hawks' head Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya have promised justice for the victims' families.

Two police officers, Constable Simon Ngakaemang Ntsekeletsa and Sergeant Mojalefa Heratius Molete, were found dead in a burnt-out police vehicle after they went missing while transporting a vehicle loaded with suspected stolen goats. A swift police operation led to the arrest of five suspects within 12 hours. The suspects were found in possession of a firearm taken from the slain officers and are expected to face charges of murder, malicious damage to property, and possession of a stolen firearm. The investigation involved multiple police units, and officials expressed hope for successful prosecution.

Community members in Mahikeng and Soweto have successfully organized anti-looting campaigns to protect local infrastructure and businesses amidst recent unrest. Led by figures like Nhlanhla Lux and Thato Molosankwe, these efforts have involved collaboration with police and security companies. Despite challenges such as limited law enforcement capacity and external agitators, the campaigns have managed to prevent significant looting in key areas. State Security Deputy Minister Zizi Kodwa and Police Minister Bheki Cele have acknowledged the organized nature of the unrest and emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining order.

Following the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma, KwaZulu-Natal experienced significant violence, including the torching of trucks and road blockades. The SA Police Service mobilized additional officers to manage the unrest, while the Jacob Zuma Foundation refrained from condemning the violence, attributing it to the court's decision. The ANC and provincial authorities called for calm and adherence to the law, emphasizing the economic impact of the destruction. The Road Freight Association expressed concerns about the safety of continuing operations in the region.

Jeff Monnakgotla, owner of PH Network Café in Mahikeng, expresses his understanding of the government's logic behind the alcohol ban amid rising Covid-19 infections but criticizes it as unnecessary and unjustified.

Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced that teachers and other education sector workers will receive COVID-19 vaccinations over a two-week period, aiming to have 582,564 people vaccinated by July 9. This initiative is expected to facilitate the return to traditional five-day school weeks and mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on education. Despite rising infections, Motshekga emphasized the importance of keeping schools open, following advice from public health experts and government authorities. EFF leader Julius Malema's call for immediate school closures was addressed, with Motshekga stating that any disruptions would be handled by the police.

Workers at a Clover plant set to relocate from Lichtenburg to KwaZulu-Natal dispute the company's claims that the move is due to poor service delivery by the Ditsobotla Local Municipality. They assert that they were informed about the relocation a year ago, suggesting other reasons behind the decision.

A video clip circulating on social media may provide leads into the deaths of 20 suspected illegal miners, known as zama zamas, in Orkney, North West, South Africa. The video, recorded in a disused mine shaft, shows an illegal miner named Mafifi discussing the deaths caused by smoke inhalation. Police found 20 decomposed bodies at two locations in Orkney, suspected to be linked to a gas explosion. The investigation continues, with authorities seeking to identify the deceased and understand the circumstances of their deaths. Local officials express concerns over the ongoing illegal mining activities and the need for stronger enforcement.

The community forum expressed disappointment with Premier Job Mokgoro's conduct during a virtual meeting with the ad hoc committee on the section 100 intervention in North West and the provincial government. The forum was particularly unhappy with Mokgoro's call for verification of community leaders and his statement suggesting that the committee chairperson, China Dodovu, was inciting the community. The background to the issues includes a violent protest in 2018 in Madibogo Pan, Ratlou Local Municipality, where schools and other facilities were torched.

North West Premier Job Mokgoro is investigating the reasons behind Clover's decision to close its Lichtenburg cheese factory and relocate to KwaZulu-Natal, suspecting that the Ditsobotla Local Municipality's poor service delivery may be to blame. The municipality denies responsibility, citing specific provisions for water and electricity. Clover attributes the move to ongoing disruptions and infrastructure issues, while local officials argue it may be a business decision. Efforts are being made to convince Clover to stay and save over 300 jobs, with potential plans to acquire the plant and form cooperatives if the relocation proceeds.

Sakeliga, a nonprofit public interest group, is engaged in a legal battle with Eskom to prevent the power utility from cutting electricity in the Musina Local Municipality, arguing that paying customers should not suffer due to the municipality's failure to settle its debts.

On Environment Day, there were calls for interventions to prevent South Africa from facing a severe water crisis due to increasing demand and decreasing supply. The event aimed to raise awareness and promote actions to address ecosystem challenges and prevent a catastrophe.

Gauteng is expected to see a rise in crime statistics as Covid-19 lockdown restrictions are relaxed, according to Gauteng provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela. The increase is attributed to the return to normalcy rather than police performance. Recent statistics showed a general reduction in crime during stricter lockdown periods. However, the upcoming quarter is anticipated to show a surge in crime, which Mawela urges should be contextualized against the varying lockdown levels. The fourth-quarter statistics of 2020/21 indicated a 14.6% decrease in community-reported serious crimes, although murder cases saw a 3.9% increase.

The article discusses the challenges and progress of the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out across various provinces in South Africa. It highlights the experiences of elderly individuals facing difficulties in getting vaccinated due to vaccine shortages and logistical issues. Provincial health spokespersons provide updates on the number of people vaccinated and the efforts to increase vaccination sites. The article also mentions the involvement of political figures and health department officials in overseeing the roll-out process.

The succession to the Zulu throne has become a legal matter with Princesses Ntandoyenkosi Zulu and Ntombizosuthu Zulu-Duma challenging the recognition of Prince Misuzulu Zulu as heir. They seek to interdict KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala from recognizing Misuzulu and to prevent President Cyril Ramaphosa from issuing a certificate of recognition. The dispute involves the validity of the late King Goodwill Zwelithini's will and the powers of the late Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, who named Misuzulu as the next king. The Pietermaritzburg High Court is expected to hear the urgent application, with the princesses arguing that the process was not legally compliant and suspecting the will to be fraudulent.

The Kgetlengrivier Concerned Citizens group, having received approximately R15 million from the government for managing the municipality's water and sanitation services, prefers to maintain control to ensure consistent clean water and good sanitation. The group's involvement is highlighted as the only time residents are assured of these essential services.

The ongoing bid to remove North West Premier Job Mokgoro has led to those involved in the effort now expressing interest in his position. As Mokgoro navigates the situation to maintain his role, the internal conflicts are inadvertently providing him with time to stay in office.

Supporters of former North West premier Supra Mahumapelo, whose ANC membership was recently suspended, believe the suspension is a political strategy to prevent him from becoming the provincial chairperson at the upcoming conference. They plan to challenge the suspension in court, citing a 2019 ruling that deemed a previous disbandment of the provincial executive committee unlawful. Mahumapelo and his supporters accuse the ANC interim provincial committee of sowing divisions and targeting those linked to him. The disciplinary hearing for Mahumapelo is set to be held virtually on April 26.

The article recounts the tragic story of 6-year-old Kutlwano Garesape who was killed while defending his mother, Segomotsi Garesape, from an attempted rape and stabbing by Teselo Dikole in Jan Kempdorp, Northern Cape. Kutlwano fought bravely against the attacker but was ultimately thrown into the air, throttled, and disemboweled. Segomotsi and her older son Thabiso witnessed the horrific event. The family is still grieving the loss of Kutlwano, who is remembered as a loving and protective brother. Thabiso is dealing with trauma and is expected to testify in court. The article ends with a call to action, asking the nation to remember Kutlwano's bravery and suggesting a public response through SMS.

The article reports on a scheme by the Gupta family to siphon money from South African healthcare funds to finance a luxury hospital in Dubai. The healthcare provider Mediosa, allegedly a front for the Guptas, charged the North West and Free State provinces for patient screening, with a significant portion of the fee going to subcontracted companies in Dubai. These funds were intended to support the Guptas' Dubai Healthcare City project. The plan involved high-ranking officials, including North West health department head Thabo Lekalakala and Premier Supra Mahumapelo. The Hawks are investigating the contracts, and there are allegations of Mediosa receiving tenders without competitive bidding. The article also touches on Mediosa's ties to other companies and individuals linked to the Guptas, including Eskom and the controversial coal supply contract with Gupta-owned Tegeta.

The article is a personal account by The Star reporter Poloko Tau, reflecting on the events following the police shooting at Lonmin's Marikana mine in August 2012, which resulted in the death of 34 striking mineworkers. The reporter recounts his interaction with one of the miners, identifiable by a green blanket, who was his contact among the strikers. The miner had ominously stated they would rather die than return to work under current conditions. Shortly after, the miner was shot dead by police during a confrontation. The reporter describes the chilling moment of recognizing the lifeless body of his contact and reflects on the miner's role as a leader and spokesperson for the striking workers.