Last week, the Western Cape High Court issued an interdict preventing impeached Judge President John Hlophe from participating in the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). This decision has led to significant tension, particularly with the MK Party, which Hlophe leads in Parliament. The party has threatened legal action if the JSC conducts its interviews without Hlophe. 

Guest: Mbekezeli Benjamin: Research and Advocacy Officer of the Judges Matter Campaign at Democratic Governance & Rights Unit (DGRU) 

In this discussion, we’ll delve into pressing issues surrounding the Police Minister’s performance amid rising crime rates across the country. We’ll also examine the recent mass killing in Lusikisiki, exploring its implications for community safety and law enforcement effectiveness. Join us as we unpack these critical topics and consider potential solutions to enhance public security and restore trust in the police. 

Guest: Senzo Mchunu: Minister of Police  

The Gauteng Department of Human Settlements (GDHS) is once again falling short in its responsibility to provide housing for vulnerable residents, achieving only 50% of its targets in the First Quarterly Report for the 2024/2025 financial year. This performance reflects ongoing issues within the department, which is struggling to address a significant housing backlog that continues to grow. 

Guest: Alan Fuchs: MPL DA Gauteng Member of Human Settlements Committee 

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party is intensifying its efforts to advocate for John Hlophe’s inclusion in the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), despite his recent impeachment for misconduct. This controversial situation arises from Hlophe's prior attempts to influence Constitutional Court justices, leading to significant legal challenges and public outcry. 

Guest:Nhlamulo Ndhlela:  MK PARTY Spokesperson 

 

Afrika Update Report  

2 October 2024  

1. Nigeria - Abuja

As Nigeria turned 64 years of independence yesterday President Bola Tinubu has vowed that “end of tunnel” is near, some protest economic hardship, In a televised address, the president called for patience amid tough economy. 

Bola Tinubu notably listed security gains and investments in farm machinery among achievements that will help ease the economic pressure. 

1. France – Rwanda 

France Puts Rwandan Doctor On Trial for Alleged Role in 1994 Genocide 

Eugene Rwamucyo, a former doctor who practiced in France until 2010, went on trial in Paris on Tuesday accused of participating in Rwanda's 1994 genocide. His is the eighth such case to be tried in France, which has refused to extradite suspects over concerns they would be denied a fair hearing. 

 

1. Ivory Coast – Abidjan 

Ivory Coast's ruling party has expressed its support for President Alassane Ouattara seeking a fourth term in 2025, making it more likely that the 82-year-old will run again. 

1. Malawi- Lilongwe 

Widow of Malawi's Late Vice-President Saulos Chilima, Mary Nkhamanyachi Chilima Demands Probe Into June Plane Crash In Which He Died. 

• An investigation preliminary report by German experts didn't explain the cause of the accident.
• The Malawian government said it was in constant touch with the Chilima family.

1. In our historical archives, it was on this day 2 October 1995 when Nyameko Barney Pityana was elected the Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission. (One of the Founding Chapter Nine Institution under the 1996 South Afrikan Constitution)

As South Africa prepares for summer, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has announced expectations of above-average temperatures across the country, despite recent snowfall in higher regions. While these snow events are not unusual for this time of year, the potential for rainfall remains uncertain, raising questions about the summer weather patterns ahead. 

Guest: Prof Francois Engelbrecht:  

Shigeru Ishiba, recently elected as the leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), has swiftly announced plans for a snap election on October 27, just days after taking office. With a long-standing political career and a focus on revitalizing Japan's economy, addressing security threats, and tackling internal party scandals, Ishiba’s leadership marks a pivotal moment for the LDP amid public scrutiny and changing voter sentiments.  

Guest: Prof David Monyae is the Director for the Centre for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg 

On Thursday, October 3, 2024, Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo will launch the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum, aimed at tackling the ongoing pollution that threatens the water quality of the Vaal River. This initiative seeks to coordinate and enhance efforts to manage the river's quality, bringing together various stakeholders impacted by the decline. 

Guest: Sello Seitlholo: Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister  

South Africa faces a significant public health crisis, with approximately 62,000 lives lost annually due to preventable alcohol-related incidents. The economic burden of alcohol far exceeds the benefits derived from taxes and productivity. Addressing this issue requires coordinated action across various government departments, as alcohol consumption is intricately linked to pressing social challenges such as unemployment and gender-based violence. 

Guest: Zimasa Mpemnyama is the project lead of the DG Murray Trust’s Alcohol Harms Reduction campaign.