The South African Communist Party, SACP will hold its annual commemoration for struggle icon Joe Slovo today in Soweto. SACP General Secretary Solly Mapaila is set to deliver the keynote address at the Heroes' Acre in Avalon Cemetery. Alliance partners, including representatives from the ANC and Cosatu, are expected to attend the event.This comes against a backdrop of ongoing strains in the tripartite alliance, particularly over the SACP's plans to contest the upcoming local government elections independently. Elvis Presslin spoke to SACP spokesperson, Mbulelo Mandlana

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to charges of narco-terrorism, cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns in a New York federal court. Maduro was captured by US forces in Caracas on Saturday and transported to the US for trial. During his court appearance, Maduro claimed he was "kidnapped" and remains Venezuela's legitimate president. Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores, also pleaded not guilty to related charges. The couple faces decades to life in prison if convicted. To unpack the legalities of this trial, Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Etienne Mutabazi, a Lawyer who served at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda

A 54-hour water shutdown is set to begin in Johannesburg from today at 4pm, with the city warning it could take seven days to fully recover. The shutdown is part of Rand Water's planned maintenance programme, affecting areas including Roodepoort, Fleurhof, Doornkop, Meadowlands and Braamfischerville. Executive Mayor Dada Morero says residents should store water and use it sparingly during this time. Elvis Presslin spoke to WaterCan Communications Manager, Jonathan Erasmus

As the 2026 academic year kicks off, education experts are emphasizing the importance of structured goal-setting for learners. According to Ntsako Mhlanga, founder of Learnergy, many students struggle due to unclear goals, poor routines, and limited accountability. Mhlanga advises parents and guardians to help learners set clear, subject-based academic goals, focus on routine and consistency and schedule regular academic check-ins. Education entrepreneur and Founder of Learnergy, Ntsako Mhlanga spoke to Elvis Presslin

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has strongly condemned the US military attack on Venezuela. NUMSA has called the attack an "undemocratic, dictatorial, and unilateral attack" on the Democratic Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. NUMSA accuses US President Donald Trump of being a "savage, ruthless bully and champion of colonialism and imperialism" and calls on Americans to hold him accountable. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to NUMSA Spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola

FF Plus leader Dr. Corné Mulder has welcomed the news of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's capture, stating that the end of the socialist failure in Venezuela should be celebrated. Mulder says the strong condemnation from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the ANC minister doesn't represent his party's views or those of all South Africans. Maduro was captured by US Delta Force in a pre-dawn operation and is facing federal narco-terrorism charges in New York. The US has announced plans to run Venezuela until a proper transition can take place, with opposition figures María Corina Machado and Edmundo González potentially leading a transitional government. To elaborate further on his sentiments, Dr. Corné Mulder spoke to Elvis Presslin

Residents of Soshanguve and East Lynne in Tshwane are expressing frustration and anger after enduring prolonged electricity outages since December, followed by water disruptions. The City of Tshwane says it's working around the clock to restore power, but residents claim little progress has been made, with some areas still without electricity. Elvis Presslin spoke to DA Tshwane Metro Leader, Cilliers Brink

Thousands of travellers are still crossing into South Africa at the Beitbridge Border Post, with many returning to work after travelling to neighbouring countries for the festive season. The Border Management Authority (BMA) is warning travellers to have all required documents ready, as lawlessness will not be tolerated. The BMA has deployed drone technology to strengthen border control and manage the increased flow of people. Elvis Presslin spoke to Dr. Mike Masiapato Commissioner, of the Border Management Authority, BMA

Inmates in South African prisons have written to EFF leader Julius Malema, accusing Correctional Services Minister Dr. Pieter Groenewald of racism and subjecting them to "cruel and inhumane" conditions. The inmates claim conditions have worsened under Groenewald, with limited phone access, poor diet, and few parole releases. They're urging Malema to take legal action to have Groenewald's appointment declared unconstitutional, citing alleged racist ideologies and policies. To further discuss this Elvis Presslin spoke to South African Prisoners Organisation for Human Rights, SAPOHR President and Prison rights activist, Golden Miles Bhudu

South African activist groups have strongly condemned the United States' bombing of Venezuela, describing it as a "violent act of US military aggression". Africa4Palestine and Anti-Fascist International alleges the attack is motivated by Venezuela's oil and rare earth minerals. The country's President Nicolas Maduro has been captured by US forces. Elvis Presslin spoke to Board Member of Africa4Palestine, Muhammed Desai