It’s the second of February and this is your News Bite, a fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world.
In today’s episode, KZN Hawks head Leseja Senona fears for his personal safety and has gone into hiding, just days after testifying before the Madlanga Commission. Senona admitted to a friendship with alleged cartel kingpin Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, but KZN police say they are unaware of who he is hiding from and deny that he was threatened or followed home.
In Gauteng, Finance MEC Lebogang Maile has revealed that municipal councillors owe millions, making them the province’s biggest defaulters. One councillor alone reportedly owes more than R100,000. Maile says non-payment by elected officials is a major contributor to municipalities’ ongoing debt crises, as outlined in the latest state of municipal finances briefing.
At the National Prosecuting Authority, Advocate Andy Mothibi has assumed his duties as the new NDPP, replacing Shamila Batohi after her seven-year term. Mothibi, formerly head of the Special Investigating Unit, was appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa last month. While some critics argue his appointment could face a legal challenge, analyst Sandile Swana believes Mothibi has the skills and background for the job.
Politics was also in focus at the EFF National People’s Assembly in Boksburg, where Julius Malema struck a conciliatory tone. Malema urged party members to reach out to white South Africans and cautioned against the harassment of Jewish people, as the party strategises ahead of this year’s local government elections amid declining electoral support.
In other news, we’re keeping an eye on…
After weeks of mounting frustration, the Pikitup workers’ strike is over, with rubbish collection expected to resume in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs following an agreement with casual workers demanding permanent posts. https://www.enca.com/news/residents-bear-brunt-pikitup-protest
A second suspect in the murder of Warrick Stock, better known as DJ Warras, has appeared in court. Armando Joaquim Paucula faces charges of murder and contravention of the Immigration Act, with the case postponed to 9 February.
SPORTS
· The Spar Proteas sent a strong message ahead of the Commonwealth Games, beating England 65–50 to seal the netball series 2–1 as preparations continue for July’s tournament in Scotland.
· In tennis, Carlos Alcaraz has become the youngest player to win a career Grand Slam. After lifting the Australian Open trophy, the 22-year-old says he wants to dominate the 2026 season.
· In football, Kaizer Chiefs boosted their CAF Confederation Cup hopes with a 1–0 win over Zesco United, moving up to second place in the group. In the English Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur fought back from 2–0 down to draw with Manchester City, while Manchester United extended its winning streak under Michael Carrick with a 3–2 victory over Fulham.
AND FINALLY
· Music took centre stage at the 2026 Grammy Awards, where artists used the platform to speak out on global issues. Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, Bad Bunny made history as the first Latin artist to win Album of the Year, and Billie Eilish claimed Song of the Year for a record third time.
· South African pop star Tyla won her second Grammy, taking home Best African Music Performance.
· The ceremony, once again hosted by Trevor Noah, also sparked controversy after Donald Trump threatened legal action over comments linking him to Epstein Island. https://www.enca.com/lifestyle-top-stories/trump-threatens-legal-action-against-trevor-noah-over-epstein-comment
That’s how we wrap today’s News Bite. For developments on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch eNCA on DStv Channel 403.