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Ramaphosa calls for immediate release of S Africans abducted from Sumud Flotilla

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the immediate release of South Africans abducted in international waters, and other nationals who have tried to reach Gaza with humanitarian aid.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is delivering urgent humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and attempting to raise awareness of the need to stop the war.

A UN Commission of Inquiry has concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, incited by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Activist and former President Nelson Mandela's grandson Mandla Mandela, was on board the flotilla. He is urging government to add pressure for his immediate release.

In a pre-recorded video Mandela said he was kidnapped by Israeli forces who intercepted the flotilla.

"…if you are receiving this video, it means that we have been intercepted and I have been abducted by the apartheid State of Israel, I call on you to request our government to exact pressure for my immediate release," he said.

The Global Sumud Flotilla emerged in July 2025 through the consolidation of multiple activist and humanitarian movements, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Global Movement to Gaza, the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla, and Sumud Nusantara, into a coordinated maritime effort.

The flotilla comprises over 40 vessels with 500 participants from more than 44 countries, making it the largest civilian-led convoy of its kind in history.

South Africans who were on board the flotilla include Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner and Reaaz Moolla.

Ramaphosa said confirmation is pending on the abduction of Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks and Carrie Shelver.

"My thoughts are with all the abductees and their families, and it is my expectation that Israel will release the human rights activists as these abductions serve no purpose in the context of efforts to secure peace in the Middle East," he said.

He pointed out that the interception in international waters off the coast of Gaza reinforces Israel's continued violation of international law and the infliction of suffering and starvation on Palestinians.

"The interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla is another grave offence by Israel of global solidarity and sentiment that is aimed at relieving suffering in Gaza and advancing peace in the region," Ramaphosa said.

He added that the interception of the flotilla in international waters is contrary to international law and violates the sovereignty of the nations whose flags were flown on the dozens of vessels in the flotilla.

"This action also violates an International Court of Justice injunction that humanitarian aid must be allowed to flow unimpeded," he said.

Ramaphosa called on Israel to ensure that the life-saving cargo transported by this flotilla reaches the people of Gaza, stressing that the flotilla represents solidarity with Gaza, not confrontation with Israel.

Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said South Africa supports the call by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible.

Mbalula says no support for ANC members facing corruption allegations

African National Congress (ANC) secretary general Fikile Mbalula said on Thursday that there will be no support for members of the ANC who face allegations of corruption, announcing that the party will follow suit with lifestyle audits for all its members in leadership positions.

Speaking in Johannesburg, where he was communicating the outcomes of the party's National Working Committee (NWC) meeting and providing an update on key political developments, Mbalula said government must urgently make public the outcome of the lifestyle audits for Cabinet Ministers.

Mbalula said the ANC reiterated its support for the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, also noting the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) report on Tembisa Hospital, which he said had laid bare disturbing patterns of procurement irregularities and criminality.

"We know that names of individuals may arise in testimony or submissions, we emphasise that all those mentioned will have the right to reply and an opportunity to clear their names in line with our constitutional values of fairness and justice," he said.

The SIU report revealed that syndicates were implicated in the coordinated looting of hospital funds, including the Maumela Syndicate, which is linked to Hangwani Morgan Maumela, who is the nephew of President Cyril Ramaphosa through a previous marriage.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has alluded to allegations that some of these stolen funds were used in the CR17 election campaign and in the election budgets of the ANC.

"Until this question is answered, the looting of hospitals cannot be seen in isolation from the political machinery that sustains the ruling party's grip on power," said the EFF.

Mbalula said his party would continue supporting law enforcement agencies and Parliament in ensuring that those implicated faced the full might of the law.

He assured that once a credible institution was appointed to undertake the lifestyle audits, the party would make the findings public.

He said these audits would be undertaken for any leader of the ANC, in any position of responsibility, and not only by those serving in government.

Mbalula said all Cabinet Ministers have undergone lifestyle audits and said the ANC supported the arrests of anyone found guilty.

"We state without hesitation, no member of the ANC has ever been given a mandate to be corrupt. Any member who engages in corruption stands alone, outside the traditions, values and discipline of the ANC," he said.

He said corruption was treason against South Africans and undermined service delivery while discrediting sacrifices that gave birth to the country's democracy.

He stated that no ANC member implicated in corrupt activities, or appearing in court, would be supported by other party members.

"There will be no support in t-shirts and ANC colours to any member who is facing this particular challenge. They must do so on their own and respect the standing of the ANC in society, and they must do so in their own name and right.

"We will never defend corruption; we will expose it, confront it, and defeat it. Those who commit acts of corruption cannot hide behind the ANC, cannot drag our name into their crimes, and cannot claim legitimacy from the movement. The ANC will not sink with those who choose the path of corruption. Those who betrayed the people for personal gains, will be isolated," Mbalula said.

He said if any party member was convicted, they would be disciplined and removed from the party's membership.

South Africa tax agency falling short on extra collections ambition

South Africa's tax authority is lagging behind projections required to secure an additional R35-billion in revenue, data from the National Treasury revealed, though it is on track to meet its 2025/26 baseline target.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has collected approximately R39.3-billion so far this fiscal year, surpassing the R37.5-billion needed to meet its baseline goal of R100-billion, which the debt collection agency achieved in the 2024/25 fiscal year.

However, the collections fall short of the R49.3-billion needed to stay on course for the higher target aimed at easing fiscal pressures.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has warned that spending cuts may be unavoidable if revenue fails to meet expectations.

Earlier this year, Godongwana said exceeding the target could eliminate the need for an additional R20-billion in taxes planned for 2026/27, as the government seeks to contain debt projected to peak at 77.4% of GDP.

Political resistance to tax increases has posed challenges for the minister, who has prioritised maintaining fiscal credibility amid South Africa's economic strains. SARS's published figures include monthly cash collection profiles to track progress against targets.

Godongwana will present the nation's medium-term budget policy statement in November.

Politicians remember Nathi Mthethwa

Following the passing of South Africa's Ambassador to France Nathi Mthethwa, many have come out to offer their condolences and remember him as a "distinguished servant of the nation".

On Tuesday, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola confirmed Mthethwa's passing, highlighting that the circumstances of Mthethwa's death were under investigation by the French authorities.

French media reports said Mthethwa was found dead at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel, a high-rise tower in Porte Maillot in the west of Paris.

This after he was allegedly reported missing by his wife on Monday.

Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation chairperson Supra Mahumapelo said Mthethwa's passing was a "national loss".

He said the committee noted Mthethwa's success in his diplomatic role, for which he was appointed in December 2023, in strengthening the vital partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France.

"The committee was looking forward with confidence and trust to Ambassador Mthethwa's diplomatic wisdom in taking South Africa's diplomatic relationship with France to new heights," he said.

He said Mthethwa passed away at a time when the country needed diplomats of his calibre more than ever.

"…he was one of the best and selfless revolutionary diplomats the country has produced. He leaves behind an indelible legacy the country will always cherish," Mahumapelo said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said Mthethwa's passing was a "moment of deep grief" and noted his roles in diverse capacities during a lifetime that had ended "prematurely and traumatically".

"In his last tenure of service, he has facilitated the deepening of relations between South Africa and the Republic of France, which has produced benefits for individuals and businesses in both countries and advanced our cooperation in the global arena," Ramaphosa stated.

He offered his condolences to Mthethwa's wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, their extended family, the Ministry and Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and officials in South Africa's Embassy in Paris.

The President also acknowledged the network of partners and stakeholders, including the French Presidency and Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, with whom Mthethwa had established strong relationships since his diplomatic appointment in 2023.

The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza, and National Council of Provinces chairperson Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, also expressed sadness at Mthethwa's passing.

The Presiding Officers said throughout his career, Mthethwa embodied the values of "accountability, humility and service" and described him as a committed youth leader during the apartheid struggle, and as someone who carried his passion for justice and empowerment into the democratic era.

"Over nearly three decades, he served the nation with distinction as chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Minerals and Energy, Chief Whip of the African National Congress (ANC), Minister of Police, and Minister of Arts and Culture, and later Sport, Arts and Culture," they explained.

The Presiding Officers said Mthethwa's efforts to uplift young people, promote cultural identity, and strengthen democratic institutions would remain his enduring legacy.

Meanwhile, Mthethwa's political party, the ANC, said he was not merely a public official but a "committed" cadre of the liberation struggle and a "dedicated" servant in the country's democratic era.

"…his life was one of both struggle and service.

"From the years of resistance, clandestine work, and sacrifice, Comrade Mthethwa contributed to the collective efforts that won our democracy. In the post-1994 era, he accepted the responsibilities of shaping the new South Africa. He served in multiple ministerial portfolios," said ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu.

She stated Mthethwa a...

EFF threatens legal after Malema's guilty verdict

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has come out in defence of its leader Julius Malema, threatening legal action after the East London Magistrates' Court found him guilty of discharging a firearm in public without lawful cause.

His sentencing is scheduled for January 23.

In 2018, a video emerged showing Malema firing several shots in the air during his party's fifth anniversary celebrations held in the country's Eastern Cape province.

Responding to the judgment, the EFF said Malema's case had been "maliciously" pursued for more than seven years, and the party was seeking legal advice, with the intention to appeal the ruling.

The party said it trusted that higher courts would expose what it termed "weaknesses and contradictions" in the prosecution.

The EFF claimed that Malema's case had been dragged through the courts, not because of compelling evidence, but because of a "political agenda".

"It is no surprise that the State has pursued this matter to this point, for there have always been coordinated attempts to discredit and sabotage the EFF and its leadership. From the moment CIC [commander in chief] Malema and the EFF fearlessly confronted corruption in the highest offices, demanded land expropriation without compensation, and exposed the capture of the State by both local and global capital, the system has sought to silence him by any means necessary," the party said.

The EFF said it was not shocked by the outcome of the judgment, arguing that the "racist right-wing" US President Donald Trump had openly issued an instruction for the arrest of Malema.

In May, Trump called for Malema's arrest for repeatedly chanting "kill the boer".

"This has created a political climate in which the judiciary is influenced by imperialist and right-wing agendas rather than evidence and fairness.

"This judgment is part of a wider pattern, as CIC has faced a series of politically motivated prosecutions in the past. He was dragged before courts on charges relating to freedom of speech and the singing of our very own struggle songs, as well as encouraging his own organisation to stand up to white racists in the case of Brackenfell," stated the EFF.

The EFF also raised concerns about the apparent conduct of the magistrate, particularly the acceptance of what the party said was "hearsay evidence that was not tested in court".

"…such practices undermine the fairness and integrity of judicial proceedings. When the State previously failed to prosecute the CIC on trumped-up charges that were dismissed, it became clear that the intention has always been to persecute him in any way possible, regardless of merits or evidence," the party said.

The EFF said that the decision to acquit Malema's former bodyguard Adriaan Snyman, who was alleged to have handed the firearm to the EFF leader, was "hypocritical and proves a political agenda".

"…yet the individual he is accused of handing the firearm to has been found guilty. This proves that this was a witch hunt to target the president of the EFF and find him guilty no matter how irrational it may be," the party said.

Outa urges more SIU funding to capacitate Tembisa Hospital investigation

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) on Tuesday called for more funding to be directed to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), to capacitate its investigation into the Tembisa Hospital syndicate and to ensure prosecutions.

On Monday, the SIU released the interim report on the Tembisa Hospital investigation, in which it revealed devastating plunder of the public purse, uncovering three coordinated syndicates responsible for the looting of over R2-billion.

The SIU found nine syndicates operating out of Tembisa Hospital, who were collectively behind the looting of at least R2.043-billion over a few years, from a hospital with a yearly budget of only R1.6-billion at the time.

Outa said it wanted implicated hospital and Gauteng Department of Health staff immediately suspended, and disciplinary and criminal cases pursued against them.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago revealed that the SIU had identified at least 15 current and former officials involved in activities such as corruption, money laundering, collusion, and bid rigging with improperly appointed service providers at Tembisa Hospital.

To date, the SIU has prepared 116 disciplinary referrals against 13 officials, of which 108 were delivered to the Gauteng Department of Health (GDOH) relating to maladministration, as well as the irregular appointment of service providers at Tembisa Hospital.

Outa CEO Wayne Duvenage said his organisation did not trust the health department and wanted the referrals to be taken over by an independent third party, and all those implicated staff suspended immediately.

Outa also called on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise the prosecutions the SIU had already forwarded, plus any more to come, urging "real, determined efforts" in prosecution.

"Furthermore, we believe it is imperative that implicated staff who have resigned to avoid disciplinary action, must be pursued by the SIU and NPA, and prosecuted. Every effort should be made to seize assets from those implicated to recover as much looted funds as possible," said Duvenage.

Outa now wants a full audit of all 37 Gauteng hospitals, in light of the Tembisa Hospital investigation.

"Gauteng has 37 State-funded hospitals, and one wonders how many others are being brazenly looted in a similar manner.

"It is clear to us that more needs to be done in implementing changes to the law, when it comes to the protection of whistleblowers and the investigators who challenge such organised, heartless corruption," he said.

Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is demanding justice for Babita Deokaran and other whistleblowers in the case, noting that disclosures by the SIU confirm that the collapse of public health infrastructure is the result of a criminal alliance between politicians, senior officials, and syndicates, not foreign nationals.

The EFF claimed that corruption in South African healthcare is systemic and protected by those in power, and said it was outraged that Deokaran was allegedly killed for exposing, among others, one of President Cyril Ramaphosa's family members implicated in the looting.

The syndicates implicated in the coordinated looting of hospital funds include the Maumela Syndicate, which is linked to Hangwani Morgan Maumela, who is the nephew of Ramaphosa, through a previous marriage.

"What remains unclear is how much of these stolen funds have been channelled into the CR17 sealed envelope and used to bankroll the election budgets of the ANC. Until this question is answered, the looting of hospitals cannot be seen in isolation from the political machinery that sustains the ruling party's grip on power," said the EFF.

South Africa says it optimistic US trade initiative AGOA will be renewed

South Africa's trade minister Parks Tau said he was optimistic that the United States' flagship trade initiative with Africa, which expires later on Tuesday, would be renewed.

Tau's office said in a statement that the overall message from the minister's recent trip to the United States was that there was "broad support for the renewal of AGOA (the African Growth and Opportunity Act) in Congress across the aisle".

"On the period of renewal for AGOA, the consensus suggests that AGOA may be renewed for a short-period of between one-to-three years to allow Congress to introduce changes and improvements to the programme," the statement said.

The priority for South Africa is to get AGOA extended even if it is just for a short period, Tau added.

South Africa is trying to persuade President Donald Trump's administration to lower the 30% tariff imposed in August on its exports to the U.S.

Tau met US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer this month in Washington as part of the negotiations to reduce the tariff.

Lamola confirms death of Nathi Mthethwa in France

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola on Tuesday confirmed the passing of South Africa's Ambassador to France Nathi Mthethwa, describing his death as not only a national loss but one also felt in the international diplomatic community.

French media reports said Mthethwa was found dead at the foot of the Hyatt Regency hotel, a high-rise tower in Porte Maillot in the west of Paris.

This after he was allegedly reported missing by his wife on Monday.

Lamola said the circumstances of Mthethwa's death are under investigation by the French authorities.

Lamola described Mthethwa as servant of South Africa.

"Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture," he stated.

Mthethwa also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee.

Lamola said Mthethwa's lifelong commitment to public duty was epitomised by his contribution to the African National Congress, through its highest decision-making structures.

In his diplomatic role, to which he was appointed in December 2023, Mthethwa was tasked with strengthening the partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France.

The South African government extended its condolences to Mthethwa's family, and friends and colleagues.

Mthethwa is survived by his wife and children.

SA, US businesses remain deeply connected - Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday that South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has been meeting with US trade representatives to finalise an agreement on the reciprocal trade agreement to benefit both countries.

Last week, Ramaphosa was in the US, where he addressed a Trade and Investment Dialogue between South African and US businesses on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, appealing for the US's support in advocating for the African Growth and Opportunity Act's (Agoa's) renewal.

The current authorisation of Agoa is set to expire on Tuesday.

In his weekly letter to South Africans, Ramaphosa said engagements in the US show that businesses in both countries remain "deeply connected" and are committed to mutually beneficial long-term partnerships.

Relations between South Africa and Trump's administration came to a head earlier this year, after the signing of the Expropriation Act, tensions which many believe were exacerbated by the Solidarity Movement and its members AfriForum and Solidarity lobbying the US.

In August, US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs on goods reaching the US from countries around the world, with South Africa being amongst the countries worst affected.

Ramaphosa said South Africa is encouraged that the US Chamber of Commerce supports the reauthorisation of Agoa, describing it as "the cornerstone of US-Africa commerce".

"…predictable, preferential access to the US market isn't just vital to South Africa's own exports, but also to US companies that depend on reliable imports. We are also prioritising the African Continental Free Trade Area as a vital tool for strengthening US-South Africa trade and investment," he said.

He noted that South Africa will continue advocating for the principle of reciprocity in investment and trade relations with the US.

"As the presence of US companies on South African soil continues to grow, we want to expand the number of South African companies operating in the US market, thereby creating more jobs for Americans," he said.

As part of strengthening ties with the US, the South African government also met with members of the US Congress and Senate.

Later this year the US Chamber of Commerce will be sending a delegation, led by its CEO, to the B20 Summit, the official global business community dialogue forum of the G20.

Ramaphosa noted the presence of more than 600 US companies in South Africa, citing "durable and resilient" commercial ties between both countries.

"Our country is the second-largest African destination for US exports. Both South African and US businesses can see the clear opportunities and commercial gains of investing in the other's respective markets," he stated.

South Africa is positioning itself as an investment destination for critical minerals, with the digital transition and the global move towards net zero driving global demand, Ramaphosa pointed out.

"…we also had the opportunity to engage with US industry around investment opportunities in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, technology and other key sectors," he said.

Last week, Ramaphosa welcomed the establishment of a South Africa-US Trade and Investment Forum, which will take place in South Africa next year, alongside the yearly South Africa Investment Conference.

The Forum aims to allow the countries to engage more systematically to address obstacles as they arise and to pursue coordinated opportunities.

Ramaphosa announces new inquiry to assess Chauke's fitness to hold office

President Cyril Ramaphosa has established an inquiry to determine the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to hold office as Director of Public Prosecutions and as a member of the National Prosecuting Authority.

The inquiry is established in terms of Section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act of 1998.

Chauke was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions on September 1, 2011 and faces allegations of abuse of power.

Ramaphosa has appointed retired Justice Baaitse Elizabeth (Bess) Nkabine as chairperson of the inquiry, with Advocate Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere and attorney Thenjiwe Vilakazi as additional members.

Chauke was suspended by Ramaphosa with effect from July 20, on full pay, pending the finalisation of the inquiry.

Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said in terms of the Constitution, the National Prosecuting Authority Act and the rules of natural justice, an inquiry into allegations made against any Director of Public Prosecutions, should be conducted fairly and impartially.

He explained that in consultation with the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi, the inquiry chairperson will determine the seat of the inquiry as well as the rules of procedure.

Magwenya said at the end of the enquiry the chairperson will submit a report to the President.