Economists have raised concerns about the sustainability of the 0.5% VAT increase set to take effect at the beginning of May. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced the hike as part of the revised fiscal framework, but the move has triggered significant political and public backlash. This week, the DA and the EFF appeared in the Western Cape High Court to challenge the decision. The court has since reserved judgment. Judge […]
Several organisations are preparing to host a mass demonstration on Saturday, 3 May, to highlight the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Ali Komape, Communications and Campaigns Manager at Africa4Palestine, said the event forms part of the global “Week for Palestine” campaign. “This is an annual international initiative, held between 1 and 7 May, to express active solidarity with the Palestinian people. It’s about moving beyond statements and showing our support for […]
As winter approaches, health experts are urging South Africans to get their annual flu vaccinations to help reduce the risk of severe illness. Dr. Angelique Coetzee emphasised the importance of getting vaccinated, particularly as people have returned to normal routines post-COVID-19. “This year, experts expect a stronger flu season, especially with more people back at work and not working remotely. Remember, it is post-COVID, for about four years, we didn’t […]
Recent reports indicate that the Western Cape High Court hear an urgent application from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) seeking to halt the pending VAT increase. The application challenges the legality of the VAT hike announced in March as part of the revised fiscal framework. The legal challenge comes amid growing tension between the DA and the ruling African National Congress (ANC), following what opposition parties […]
With Freedom Day approaching, it is a time to reflect not only on South Africa’s democracy but also on the role of media freedom in shaping the country over the past 31 years. Media ethics, freedom of expression, and the media’s role in holding power to account have evolved significantly since 1994. Professor Herman Wasserman, Head of the Journalism Department at Stellenbosch University, said the transformation has been notable. “Firstly, […]
Political analyst Goodenough Mashego stated that it’s not a surprise that the United States (U.S.) President Donald Trump may skip the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa, especially amid growing tensions between South Africa and the United States. Roland Henwood, a lecturer in the Department of Political Sciences at the University of Pretoria, explained that while Trump’s decision is not final, he has strongly signaled that he may not attend […]
Sexual harassment remains a deeply entrenched issue in South Africa, affecting women across schools, workplaces, and government institutions. Tina Thiart, co-founder and trustee of the 1000 Women Trust, emphasized that April—Sexual Harassment Awareness Month—is a time to confront the crisis and educate the public on how to respond. “Sexual harassment is far too common,” said Thiart. “From legal firms to government offices, the stories are endless—and heartbreaking.” Recent reports have […]
A recent ruling in the Gauteng High Court has clarified the application of the Divorce Amendment Act 1 of 2024, specifically in relation to Muslim marriages. The case involved an applicant seeking interim maintenance and legal costs during divorce proceedings despite her husband having issued a Talaq (Islamic divorce declaration). Senior lecturer at the University of the Western Cape’s Faculty of Law, Dr Ashraf Booley, explained that the applicant could […]
A shooting at Walter Sisulu University’s Unitra Campus in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, has left one student dead and three others injured, sparking outrage and renewed calls for improved campus safety. The incident occurred during a protest over ongoing grievances related to residence placements and university policies. According to reports, the shooting took place when a group of students approached a staff member’s residence. In the aftermath, a staff member’s vehicle […]
VOC became the first Muslim radio station in South Africa when a special events license was granted to the station in Ramadan/January 1995. Subsequent temporary broadcast licenses were granted, permitting the station to broadcast for 24 hours.
