Stay informed with News Bite, eNCA's concise roundup of the day's biggest headlines from South Africa and around the world. Gareth Edwards reports on water safety, courts, politics, weather and sport.
WATER SAFETY
Residents of Bezuidenhout Valley in Johannesburg are demanding water tankers after reporting four days without water. Joburg Water warned of possible contamination after repairs to a pipe severely damaged when a tree fell on it during sewer excavation work. A resident describes the difficulty of finding water for basic needs, while a ward councillor accuses the utility of failing the community. Johannesburg Water continues to investigate possible contamination. Contamination remains under investigation.
COURTS
The case against self-proclaimed pastor Caiphus Mkhawane and two co-accused has been postponed after their appearance in the Atteridgeville Magistrate's Court. They face charges relating to the rape of a 43-year-old mother and the murder of her four-month-old baby. The matter returns on 29 October to allow accused number one, Ntsako Makhubela, to undergo a mental evaluation. These are criminal charges before the court, not findings of guilt.
RELIGIOUS OVERSIGHT
In a related development, the CRL Rights Commission has renewed its call for pastors to be vetted before leading congregations. Chairperson Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva says children's safety is at stake and argues for a regulatory council where concerns about religious leaders could be raised.
MK PARTY
The party has removed Sibonelo Nomvalo as secretary-general following complaints concerning councillor selection, internal factionalism and parliamentary administration. Lindiwe Mtshali has been appointed acting secretary-general. Nomvalo remains an MK Party MP in the National Assembly for now.
National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe has been instructed to apologise for sexist remarks made in the North West. He was responding to allegations that councillors demanded sex from women in exchange for jobs. The ANC's National Working Committee says it considers the matter closed following its instruction to apologise.
SUMMER WEATHER
Professor Willem Landman expects a strong El Niño to persist through summer. The World Meteorological Organisation warns of potential drought and extreme heat risks for vulnerable communities. Landman says the event may weaken towards the end of summer, but cautions that longer-range forecasts remain uncertain.
SPORT
Orlando Pirates take a 1–0 first-leg advantage over African Stars into their home CAF Champions League qualifier. The Buccaneers are aiming to reach the group stage after missing out last season, but the tie is not yet decided.
That is your News Bite for 23 October 2026. For developments on these stories and more, visit eNCA.com or watch eNCA on DStv channel 403.