 (1).png){kind=spacer}
1 week ago
8
(Graphic by Sharlene Rood/News24)
News24 brings you the top stories of the day, summarised into neat little packages. Read through quickly or listen to the articles via our customised text-to-speech feature.
Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane addresses the media in Pretoria on the findings of the National Home Builders Regulatory Council’s investigation into last year’s building collapse in George. (Thahasello Mphatsoe/News24)
George building collapse probe finds negligence, misconduct and safety breaches
- A forensic investigation into the 2024 George building collapse revealed unqualified personnel, irregular registration, and breaches of occupational health and safety standards.
- The investigation also found the George Municipality approved building plans after construction had already begun and recommended implicated officials be held accountable.
- The collapse, which killed 34 people and injured 28, will likely result in criminal charges including dereliction of duty, misconduct, negligence, dishonesty, and misrepresentation.
Chief Justice Mandisa Maya. (Felix Dlangamandla/Gallo Images/Daily Maverick)
Matatiele child rapist's evasion of justice shows flaws in system – Chief Justice
- Chief Justice Mandisa Maya highlighted the case of a 7-year-old rape victim from Matatiele as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence in South Africa.
- Maya emphasised the need for continuous evaluation and improvement of measures to combat this "menace" during the biennial conference of the International Association of Women Judges in Cape Town.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed the importance of addressing legal system loopholes that hinder survivors' rights and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable with sentences reflecting the gravity of their crimes.
Former president Jacob Zuma. (Darren Stewart/Gallo images)
Downer hits back as Zuma accuses NPA of 'racist' description of his strategy
- Prosecutor Billy Downer refutes Jacob Zuma's claim that the State's characterisation of his legal tactics as a "Stalingrad strategy" is racist, arguing that Zuma's repeated legal challenges are a clear attempt to delay his corruption trial.
- Zuma, seeking to join co-accused Thales in its bid for acquittal due to trial delays, blames the State for the delays, citing its refusal to remove Downer as prosecutor and the deaths of key Thales witnesses.
- Downer argues that Zuma's claims are baseless, highlighting that multiple courts have already recognised Zuma's delay tactics and that the deaths of the Thales officials do not prevent a fair trial as other key witnesses, including Zuma himself, are available.
Helen Zille was on the steps of the Western Cape High Court last Thursday, where the DA filed court papers to challenge the passing of the Budget. (Storm Simpson/News24)
If Ramaphosa fires DA ministers, it will be the end of the GNU, warns Helen Zille
- Helen Zille believes there is no issue with DA ministers implementing a Budget they didn't vote for and that removing them from the Cabinet would effectively end the GNU.
- Zille stated that the DA was willing to renegotiate the Budget but would not compromise on its terms, which are aimed at promoting economic growth and job creation.
- ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula emphasised that President Cyril Ramaphosa had the authority to dismiss ministers and that the "anarchy" in Cabinet must end.
While it is possible that the VAT increase can be withdrawn by Parliament, this will take several months to do. (Getty Images/Valiantsin Suprunovich)
EXPLAINER | Why VAT will be increased on 1 May
- VAT will increase to 15.5% on 1 May as announced in the national Budget, despite ongoing debate in Parliament.
- Parliament can still stop the VAT increase by passing a new bill, but this will take several months and consumers will not be refunded for VAT already paid.
- The ANC is discussing alternative revenue-raising measures with other parties to potentially replace the VAT increase, but finding a solution acceptable to all parties could be challenging.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso. (Shaun Roy/Gallo Images)
Sundowns coach Cardoso not afraid of ugly football to get Champions League job done
- Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso is pleased with his team's victory over Esperance in the CAF Champions League, especially after facing criticism for his pragmatic approach.
- Cardoso defended his team's less attacking style, emphasising the need to adapt to different opponents and highlighting the importance of being a complete team to succeed in the tournament.
- Sundowns will now face Al-Ahly in the semi-finals, aiming to win their second Champions League title and potentially achieve a treble this season.
Lexus GX (Motorpress)
A Prado in Prada? Lexus enters the off-road chat with all new GX SUV
- The new Lexus GX is a luxurious and capable off-road SUV that shares a platform with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado but offers more power and luxury.
- Available in both SE and Overtrail trims, the GX boasts a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, advanced off-road technology, and a refined interior.
- Lexus aims to attract buyers looking for an exclusive and highly capable SUV with the GX, positioning it to compete with rivals like the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
*These summaries were written with the support of Gemini Pro AI.
Discover the Truth
Step into a world where the truth shines bright, and every headline is worth your time. With News24, you're not just reading the news; you are part of a community that values knowledge and insight. Immerse yourself in compelling stories, sharp analyses, and content that keeps you ahead of the curve.
