It’s Thursday, 30 July, and this is News Bite with Marcelle Gordon.
State prosecutor Drushantha Ramsamy has made damaging allegations against former IDAC boss Andrea Johnson at the Madlanga Commission, accusing her of bullying, intimidation, gossiping and “flip-flopping”. Ramsamy alleges IDAC leaders could fix evidence and target individuals because checks and balances were inadequate.
At Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula’s corruption trial, military contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu testified that the former Speaker demanded a R300,000 kickback under the code word “wig”. She alleges the cash was hidden beneath a luxury wig at OR Tambo International.
Police seized over R1-million in counterfeit and illicit goods during a raid at Joburg Mall in Johannesburg CBD. South Africa loses up to R1-billion in revenue to illicit traders who evade tax.
The IEC is holding its final in-person voter-registration weekend before November’s local government elections. Online registration will close once the election date is officially proclaimed. Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo says political parties must rebuild trust and give South Africans a reason to participate.
The African Youth Survey suggests most young Africans believe their countries are moving in the right direction, but South African youth are far less positive. Meanwhile, Old Mutual says recovering incomes and additional income streams are lifting optimism about finances.
In other news we’re keeping an eye on, the United States has struck dozens of targets in Iran after Donald Trump vowed retaliation to attacks on US forces in Jordan. The strikes reportedly killed at least 20 people.
South Africa’s sugar industry is seeking government help as cheap imports and labour shortages squeeze local producers.
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Gianni Infantino is defending FIFA’s plan to offer each of its 211 member associations $40-million if they support selling stakes in major competitions. Kaizer Chiefs begin their Betway Premiership season against Kruger United under Fernando Da Cruz.
And finally, Chad le Clos has become the most decorated athlete in Commonwealth Games history after winning his 21st medal, a bronze in the men’s 4x100m medley relay.
That’s your News Bite for 30 July.
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