The ANC is heading to the Electoral Court after missing the IEC’s 28 August deadline to submit councillor candidate lists in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Free State. The party blames a technical glitch in the electronic submission process and says it is not asking for preferential treatment. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula says the case is also about how the IEC’s digital system should work for every party.
The Constitutional Court is hearing a battle over Nelson Mandela’s personal belongings and whether they can legally be auctioned overseas. Makaziwe Mandela wants to sell the items in New York, while heritage bodies are opposing the move. Advocate Robin Pearse says the artefacts were unlawfully exported and should return to South Africa.
Former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula has defended her integrity in the Pretoria High Court. She faces corruption and money-laundering charges and denies using coded words to conceal alleged bribes.
A 45-year-old suspected drug mule was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after police found cocaine worth more than R800,000 in his luggage. He had apparently been travelling to Hong Kong.
The Institute for Security Studies is also warning that South Africa is becoming a production hub for international drug syndicates, with Mexican cartels allegedly sending experienced drug cooks to work with local networks.
Large parts of Johannesburg have been hit by power outages, including Eldorado Park, Nancefield, parts of Lenasia, Marshalltown and Newtown. City Power says teams need to assess the damage before repairs can begin.
ALSO IN THE BULLETIN
Britain is preparing sanctions on trade from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, drawing criticism from Israel and the United States.
South African cherry producers have secured first-time access to China’s market. Government says the agreement could support around 600 jobs, while market-access talks for South African blueberries are also at an advanced stage.
SPORT
The Champions League league phase begins with Borussia Dortmund hosting Villarreal, Manchester City travelling to Porto and Real Madrid welcoming Inter Milan, with José Mourinho back in the manager’s seat.
At the US Open, Elena Rybakina beat Naomi Osaka in the round of 16, while Coco Gauff defeated Iva Jovic to reach the quarter-finals.
That is your News Bite for 8 September 2026. For updates, visit eNCA.com or watch eNCA on DStv Channel 403.