Lee-Yandra Paulsen

The African National Congress (ANC) enters the second day of its National General Council with a controversial proposal to clamp down on vote-buying taking centre stage. The motion, which seeks to eliminate the long-criticised practice of distributing money or gifts during leadership contests, has reignited debate over internal democracy, factional power, and the party’s commitment to organisational renewal. According to political analyst Sanet Solomon, the issue is not new, but […]

President Cyril Ramaphosa said the ANC’s 5th National General Council (NGC), currently underway in Boksburg, will play a decisive role in confronting South Africa’s challenges and in redefining the movement’s direction. He noted that the principles of the National Democratic Revolution now face “new complexities”, calling for greater ideological clarity, discipline, and adaptability within the organisation. “The balance of forces is always in motion. During this NGC, delegates are called […]

Quality assurance body Umalusi has confirmed that the staggered marking of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which began on 18 November, is on track to conclude on 18 December. According to Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi, the process will move into the next phase immediately afterward, with the capturing of marks continuing until 5 January. The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations will then conduct a full review […]

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has warned that a culture of zero tolerance for corruption is vital for a just and equitable South Africa, citing its new research showing how widespread and "normalised" corrupt practices have become. According to HSRC researcher Steven Gordon, a significant portion of South Africans surveyed say corruption is part of their daily environment. “Living in communities with such corruption is said to be a […]

South Africa generates an estimated 900,000 tonnes of disposable nappy waste every year, with each nappy taking up to 500 years to decompose. This growing waste stream is placing immense pressure on an already strained waste management system, particularly in rural and informal communities. Dr Marc Kalina, from the University of the Western Cape’s Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies of Children, Families and Society, said the scale of the problem is […]

Parliament has rejected a motion by Build One South Africa (BOSA) leader Mmusi Maimane to raise the matric pass mark from 30% to 50%. During Tuesday’s vote, 119 MPs opposed the proposal while 87 supported it. Maimane criticised both the ANC and the DA for refusing to back the change, arguing that maintaining a 30% threshold “undermines aspiration and excellence.” However, he said the number of Members of Parliament who […]

Parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating alleged interference in the police and judicial system is still waiting for input from Speaker Thoko Didiza on whether its term will be extended. The committee, which is probing allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, is expected to conclude its work on Friday. Committee members say they need extra time to review evidence and consider outstanding testimonies before finalising their report. A member […]