It’s Monday, 9 March 2026, and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Gareth Edwards.
The Madlanga Commission has refused Suleiman Carrim’s bid to testify in camera, clearing the way for two days of public testimony in one of the most politically charged inquiries on the national calendar. Carrim is accused of using political connections to help Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala secure a R360 million SAPS tender, and of benefiting from alleged kickbacks.
In Gauteng, lawmakers have welcomed two new specialised SAPS units aimed at political killings, kidnapping, extortion and crimes targeting infrastructure projects.
Cosatu is also sounding the alarm on South Africa’s gender pay gap, warning that women remain underpaid and underrepresented at the top of both the private and public sectors.
On the economic South front, the African Reserve Bank says it will redraw its risk scenarios ahead of its next rates meeting as the widening Middle East conflict drives oil higher and puts fresh pressure on the rand.
We are also keeping an eye on Cape Town, where five suspects have been arrested after a mass shooting in Philippi East left four people dead and another wounded.
SPORT
Iran’s Graham Arnold wants his side’s World Cup qualifier in Mexico postponed, saying travel disruption linked to the Middle East conflict could seriously damage their qualification hopes.
And finally…
Rihanna’s Los Angeles home was hit by gunfire while she was reportedly inside. Police say a woman later fled the scene and was arrested, and investigators are still trying to establish a motive.
That is your News Bite for 9 March 2026. For updates on these stories and more, visit enca.com or watch us on DStv Channel 403.