The Constitution Hill Human Rights Festival in Johannesburg featured the event 'One thousand drums for Palestine,' aimed at raising awareness about the situation in Gaza. Organizer Bobby Rodwell emphasized the unifying power of music. Author Zukiswa Wanner, who recently returned her Goethe Medal in protest of Germany's support for Israel, advocated for a cultural boycott of Israel. The festival, which included drumming, flag-waving, and a panel discussion, aimed to build solidarity and inspire contributions to help Palestinians.

Former president Jacob Zuma continues to default on a multimillion-rand loan from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank, leading to a court order instructing FNB to partially freeze his account. VBS Mutual Bank liquidator Anoosh Rooplal has been attempting to recover the debt since 2018, with a 2022 court ruling allowing the bank to attach Zuma's assets. The loan was taken in 2016 following a Constitutional Court order for Zuma to repay state funds used for non-security upgrades at his Nkandla residence. The public protector's report during Thuli Madonsela's tenure highlighted irregular expenditures, significantly exceeding initial estimates.

Former president Jacob Zuma continues to default on a multimillion-rand loan from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank, leading to a court order instructing FNB to partially freeze his account. VBS Mutual Bank liquidator Anoosh Rooplal has been attempting to recover the debt since 2018, with a 2022 court ruling allowing the bank to attach Zuma's assets. The loan was taken in 2016 after the Constitutional Court ordered Zuma to repay state funds used for non-security upgrades at his Nkandla residence. The National Treasury is involved in determining the costs of these upgrades.

Protesters affiliated with the Palestine Solidarity Alliance demonstrated outside the Hilton Hotel in Sandton, where SAFA executives were meeting, demanding that SAFA support the Palestinian Football Association's call for sanctions against the Israeli Football Association. They accused Israel of apartheid policies and violations of international law, comparing the situation to the global response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. SAFA Vice President Bennett Bailey received a memorandum and stated that SAFA is taking the issue seriously and will discuss it further.

DA leader John Steenhuisen addressed supporters in Pretoria as part of the party's manifesto launch. Despite optimism from party leaders about the 2024 general election, there is a growing disconnect with South Africans due to controversial ideologies and non-progressive demographics. Governance expert Sam Koma and political science professor Dirk Kotze provided an in-depth analysis of the party's relevance.

Thousands rallied in Johannesburg to support Palestine, following the end of a truce between Israel and Hamas. Demonstrators called for a ceasefire and increased international pressure on Israel. The rally featured voices from the Palestine Solidarity Alliance and humanitarian aid organization Gift of the Givers, which lost a regional head in Gaza to an airstrike. Health workers condemned the killing of healthcare professionals and the bombing of medical facilities in Gaza, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis.

Over 1,000 people gathered in Johannesburg and Cape Town to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The protests, involving trade unions, civil society organizations, and political parties like the ANC, EFF, and AZAPO, called for a ceasefire and an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. Demonstrators in Johannesburg marched through the city, while events in Cape Town included a picket in Blikkiesdorp and a vigil at St George's Cathedral. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign emphasized the interconnectedness of global struggles for dignity and human rights.

Over 1,000 people gathered in Johannesburg and Cape Town to commemorate The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, calling for a ceasefire and an end to Israel's occupation. Various organizations, including trade unions, civil society groups, and political parties like the ANC, EFF, and AZAPO, participated. Demonstrations included a march in Johannesburg and multiple events in Cape Town, highlighting solidarity with both Palestinians and local communities facing oppression. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign emphasized the interconnectedness of global struggles for dignity and human rights.

The streets of Orange Farm, South Africa, were enlivened by a carnival parade themed 'Revival of Ubuntu,' aimed at fostering community unity and addressing local challenges. Organized by the Nkosana Ngobese Foundation, the event created job opportunities and was well-received by residents. Despite the township's high unemployment and failing infrastructure, the carnival brought joy and a positive image to the community.

The streets of Orange Farm were enlivened by a carnival parade organized by the Nkosana Ngobese Foundation, aiming to foster community unity and provide joy amidst local challenges. The event, themed 'Revival of Ubuntu,' created job opportunities and was well-received by residents, highlighting the potential of arts programs to address social issues in the township.

Airbnb significantly boosted South Africa's economy in 2022, contributing over R23.5 billion, a 115% increase from pre-Covid-19 levels. The company's growth has been driven by domestic tourism, supporting 50,000 jobs. At the Airbnb Africa Travel Summit in Johannesburg, the company pledged to support inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille praised Airbnb's role in fostering a more inclusive tourism sector. The Economic Impact report revealed that many hosts use their earnings to cover living costs, with notable growth in non-traditional tourist areas.

Thousands of fans gathered at OR Tambo International Airport to welcome the Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks, back from France. The team, led by captain Siya Kolisi, celebrated their historic fourth World Cup win. Fans expressed admiration for the team's leadership and unity, highlighting their inspirational impact on South African youth. Celebrations continued even after the team's departure, with a trophy tour set to commence on Thursday.

Thousands gathered at OR Tambo International Airport to welcome the Springboks, the four-time rugby world champions, returning from France. Captain Siya Kolisi, carrying The Webb Ellis Cup, was met with enthusiastic chants. The Springboks' historic victory over New Zealand's All Blacks was celebrated as a source of national pride and inspiration. Fans like Thabo Nkosi highlighted the team's exemplary leadership and unity. Celebrations continued even after the team's departure, with a trophy tour set to begin on Thursday.

In Johannesburg, a devastating fire engulfed a building at 80 Albert Street, leading to a harrowing situation where Yandisa Mnqandi was forced to make a life-or-death decision. With the building in flames, Mnqandi, on a fifth-story ledge, held his son close and contemplated the grim reality that jumping might be their only chance of survival. His wife had already jumped, and he believed his stepdaughter Melita was right behind him. Mnqandi was determined to protect his child, even if it meant sacrificing himself.

Musa Motha, a South African dancer with one leg, made history on Britain's Got Talent by receiving a group golden buzzer from all the judges, advancing him to the next stage of the competition. His performance was celebrated for its quality and impact, challenging perceptions of disability in the performing arts.

Young roller skaters delivered a joyful performance at the Hammanskraal Sports Complex, providing a welcome distraction for a community recently affected by a cholera outbreak. The event, themed 'An African Celebration on Wheels,' featured over 30 skaters from various clubs across the country. Local resident Joyce Mvambi praised the skaters' skills and expressed hope that more children would take up the sport. Wendy Gila, president of Roller Sport South Africa, highlighted the dedication of the township clubs and the challenges they face, including access to expensive equipment and limited practice facilities.

A diverse group gathered at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg for a Shabbat event focused on the war in Gaza, co-hosted by South African Jews for a Free Palestine. The event featured discussions on fostering peace and addressing the conflict, with notable speakers including Professor Verne Harris, Adila Hassim, Ronald Lamola, and Haidar Eid. The South African government and the International Court of Justice's roles in the conflict were also highlighted, emphasizing the need for collective action and diverse voices in the pursuit of peace.

Visually impaired individuals, supported by Blind SA, SECTION27, and other activist groups, marched to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria, demanding the urgent ratification of the Marrakesh Treaty. The treaty, which facilitates access to published works in accessible formats for visually impaired persons, has been ratified by over 90 countries, including all BRICS nations except South Africa. Demonstrators criticized the government's slow progress, despite a Constitutional Court ruling that sections of the Copyright Act are unconstitutional. A memorandum and a petition with over 4,500 signatures were handed over to DIRCO, with demonstrators giving the government a month to respond.

Rivalry between informal miners has led to violent clashes in Riverlea, Johannesburg, prompting residents to protest. The community is calling for national government intervention and possibly army deployment, as local police are seen as inadequate. Residents describe living in fear, with gunfire and stray bullets becoming common. Community leaders feel their concerns about illegal mining and violence have been ignored for years. Police Minister Bheke Cele addressed the community, emphasizing that the violence must stop.

The Express Building in downtown Johannesburg, housing over 300 occupants, is in a dire state with no electricity, one illegally connected tap, and one toilet. Originally a private college and later a church, the building has been occupied since 2008. Residents, many of whom are unemployed and survive as waste collectors, live in squalid conditions. Attempts by the owner, Tony Emmanuel Meme-Akpta, to evict the occupants were dismissed due to procedural errors. The recent fire at another building has heightened fears among residents, who hope for government assistance to find affordable housing.

Young Sowetan musicians performed classical pieces by JS Bach and Joseph Bologne at a free concert in Diepkloof, organized by the Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble. Conducted by founder Rosemary Nalden, the event showcased the talents of both young and older ensemble members. Nalden, who established the music school 26 years ago, aims to provide quality music education to children from poor backgrounds. The ensemble is preparing for their annual concert at the Linder auditorium on 6 August. The event was well-received by the community, highlighting the potential of young talents when given opportunities.

Tembeka Ngcukaitobi received a hero's welcome at OR Tambo International Airport after returning from presenting South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Hundreds gathered to greet him, expressing gratitude for the legal team's efforts. Ngcukaitobi emphasized the inspiration drawn from the Palestinian people's struggle and downplayed the significance of the legal team's role compared to the grassroots resistance. The case is seen as a small part of the broader struggle against Israeli occupation. The article highlights the support and admiration from various groups, including the South African Friends of Palestine.

Thousands gathered in Johannesburg to show solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. The rally, featuring a massive Palestinian flag, called for a ceasefire and increased international pressure on Israel. Key speakers included Ibrahim Karolia from Palestine Solidarity Alliance and Ibrahim Ayesh from Gift of the Givers, who highlighted the dire humanitarian situation. Healthcare workers also condemned the killing of medical staff and bombing of hospitals in Gaza.

Drums echoed through Constitution Hill in Johannesburg during the 'One thousand drums for Palestine' event, part of the Human Rights Festival. Organizer Bobby Rodwell emphasized the unifying power of music and the need to raise awareness about Gaza in South Africa. Author Zukiswa Wanner, who returned her Goethe Medal in protest of Germany's support for Israel, advocated for a cultural boycott of Israel. The festival, which concluded on Sunday, aimed to build solidarity and inspire contributions to help Palestinians.

The Cradle of Creativity festival, designed for children and young people, showcased a variety of performances at venues including Johannesburg's Market Theatre. Organized by ASSITEJ South Africa, the festival aimed to make theatre accessible and inspire empathy and emotional intelligence in youth. The event featured international shows and was curated by Faye Kabali-Kagwa under the theme 'The Stories That Move Us'. Yvette Hardie of ASSITEJ emphasized the transformative power of theatre for young audiences.

A mass funeral was held at Olifantsvlei Cemetery for seven victims of a deadly fire in Johannesburg, including a baby and four members of the same family. The victims, migrants from Malawi, were given a dignified burial with the assistance of Muslim organizations from Gauteng. Community members and volunteers, including Irfaan Mangera from Rise Msanzi, emphasized the importance of humanitarianism and support during this tragic time. The community remains traumatized by the significant loss and death.

A mass burial was held at Olifantsvlei Cemetery for seven victims of a deadly fire in Johannesburg, including a baby and four family members. The victims were Malawian migrants who had come to the city for work. Muslim organizations in Gauteng supported the Malawian community in providing a dignified funeral. Community members expressed their trauma and loss, with volunteers emphasizing the importance of humanitarianism.

Seven Malawian migrants, including a baby and four from the same family, were buried in a mass funeral at Olifantsvlei Cemetery in Johannesburg following a deadly fire. The local Muslim community and organizations like Rise Msanzi provided support for the dignified burial. Community members, including Abdullah Hassan Bonomali and Adam Masamba, expressed their sorrow and trauma over the loss.

Archbishop Thabo Makgoba has called on city authorities to conduct fire and sanitation inspections in informally occupied buildings following a deadly fire in Johannesburg that killed over 70 people. He highlighted the urgent need for action to prevent similar tragedies and criticized the deterioration of urban areas. Legal NGOs are urged to obtain court orders to enforce safety bylaws, while Muslim organizations assisted with the dignified burial of victims, including migrants from Malawi.

A mass funeral was held at Olifantsvlei Cemetery for seven victims of a deadly fire in Johannesburg, including a baby and four members of the same family. The victims, migrants from Malawi, were given a dignified burial with the help of Muslim organizations and volunteers from Rise Msanzi. Community members expressed their grief and trauma, highlighting the ongoing identification of other victims.

The Brixton Light Festival provided much-needed relief to Johannesburg residents after a tragic fire incident. Organized by Brixton residents, the free festival featured live theatre and music performances, art displays, and a street parade. Highlights included performances by the Isegazini Theatre Group on environmental issues, Exotically Divine Pulse with recycled costumes, and the National Youth Orchestra. The event showcased community spirit and creativity, offering a joyful respite from recent traumas.

Ace Magashule, former ANC secretary-general, announced the formation of a new political party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT), criticizing the ANC for losing its way and accusing President Cyril Ramaphosa of being captured by the DA. Magashule emphasized the new party's commitment to African nationalism and Pan-Africanism. He also addressed his upcoming court appearance in April 2024 related to a corruption case, expressing his desire to clear his name.

Ace Magashule, former ANC secretary-general, announced the formation of a new political party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT), criticizing the ANC for losing its way and accusing President Cyril Ramaphosa of being captured by the DA. Magashule emphasized the new party's commitment to African nationalism and Pan-Africanism. He also addressed his upcoming court appearance related to a corruption case, expressing his desire to clear his name.

Two years after Babita Deokaran's assassination, her family and colleagues gathered in Johannesburg to honor her fight against corruption. Six men have been sentenced for her murder, but her family seeks closure with the arrest of the mastermind. A petition with over 14,000 signatures was presented to Gauteng health MEC, demanding the blacklisting of companies involved in the Thembisa Hospital corruption. National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's chairperson emphasized the importance of fighting corruption to protect democracy.

Two years after Babita Deokaran's assassination, her family and colleagues gathered in Johannesburg to honor her fight against corruption. Six men have been sentenced for her murder, but her family seeks closure with the arrest of the mastermind. A petition with over 14,000 signatures was presented to Gauteng health MEC, demanding the blacklisting of companies involved in the Thembisa Hospital corruption scandal. National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council Chairperson Firoz Cachalia emphasized the importance of fighting corruption to protect democracy.

Two years after Babita Deokaran's assassination, her family continues to seek justice, emphasizing the need to apprehend the mastermind behind her murder. Deokaran, a finance official at the Gauteng Department of Health, was investigating corruption at Thembisa Hospital. Six men have been sentenced for her murder, but her family finds no closure until the orchestrator is caught. A petition with over 14,000 signatures demands the blacklisting of companies involved in the corruption scandal. The National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's chairperson highlighted the importance of fighting corruption to protect democracy.

Two years after Babita Deokaran's assassination, her family continues to seek justice, emphasizing the need to apprehend the mastermind behind her murder. Deokaran, a finance official at the Gauteng department of health, was investigating corruption at Thembisa Hospital. Six men have pleaded guilty to her murder, but her family finds no closure until the person who ordered the killing is brought to justice. A petition with over 14,000 signatures demands the blacklisting of companies involved in the corruption scandal. The National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council's chairperson, Prof Firoz Cachalia, highlighted the importance of fighting corruption to protect democracy.

Leaders from several opposition political parties, including the DA, IFP, UIM, and ActionSA, convened at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, to discuss forming a coalition to challenge the ANC in the 2024 elections. The event marks the beginning of two days of intensive closed-door deliberations.

Leaders from several South African opposition parties, including the DA, IFP, UIM, and ActionSA, convened at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, to discuss forming a coalition aimed at unseating the ANC in the 2024 elections. The event marked the beginning of two days of closed-door deliberations.

The Riverlea community in South Africa, after a week of protests due to violence from illegal mining, attended a meeting with Police Minister Bheki Cele and other officials. The police arrested 194 suspects and the Department of Mineral Resources plans to seal all open mine shafts by mid-September. Community leaders demand sustainable solutions and warn of taking action if promises are not fulfilled.

Police, including the Special Task Force, have initiated raids in Riverlea, Johannesburg, to combat violence linked to illegal mining. Residents had previously protested, demanding intervention due to the local police being outgunned. The raids led to 79 arrests and the confiscation of mining equipment. Community members, though fearful, highlighted the dire living conditions and frequent shootings. Police operations, supported by local community policing forums, aim to stabilize the area by filling mining holes. Resident Fuad Erentzen expressed satisfaction with the police efforts, hoping for a long-term solution.

The Mzansi Gay Choir, founded in 2016, serves as both an entertainment group and a platform for activism, promoting inclusivity and diversity. Members like Thami Dish, Sihle Mazibuko, and Olivia Magubane highlight the choir's role in providing a safe space for the queer community and fostering personal growth. Their recent performance, 'Pride without Prejudice,' underscores their commitment to addressing injustices faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. The choir's existence is portrayed as a revolutionary act against societal norms.

The Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble, consisting of young musicians from Soweto, performed classical music by JS Bach and Joseph Bologne at a free concert in Diepkloof's Dutch Reformed Church. The ensemble, founded by Rosemary Nalden 26 years ago, aims to provide children from poor backgrounds with the opportunity to learn classical stringed instruments. The concert was well-received by the community, with preparations underway for their annual concert at the Linder auditorium on August 6.

Young musicians from the Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble performed classical pieces by JS Bach and Joseph Bologne at a free concert in Diepkloof, conducted by Buskaid founder Rosemary Nalden. The event, held at the Dutch Reformed Church, was attended by proud community members. Nalden, who established the music school 26 years ago, aims to provide quality music education to children from poor backgrounds. The ensemble is preparing for their annual concert at the Linder auditorium on 6 August.

Young roller skaters delivered a captivating performance at the Hammanskraal Sports Complex, bringing joy to a community recently affected by a cholera outbreak. The event, themed 'An African Celebration on Wheels,' featured over 30 skaters, primarily from the local Hammanskraal skating club. Local resident Joyce Mvambi praised the event for providing children with alternative sports opportunities. Wendy Gila, president of Roller Sport South Africa, highlighted the dedication of the young skaters and the challenges they face, including access to expensive equipment and limited practice facilities.

Young roller skaters delivered a joyful performance in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria, amidst a cholera outbreak. The event, themed 'An African Celebration on Wheels,' featured over 30 skaters, primarily from the local skating club. Local resident Joyce Mvambi praised the skaters' skills and expressed hope that more children would take up the sport. Wendy Gila, president of Roller Sport South Africa, highlighted the dedication of the township clubs and the challenges they face, including access to expensive equipment and limited practice facilities.

Young roller skaters delivered a captivating performance at the Hammanskraal Sports Complex, bringing joy to a community recently affected by a cholera outbreak. The event, themed 'An African Celebration on Wheels,' featured over 30 skaters, primarily from the local Hammanskraal skating club. Local resident Joyce Mvambi praised the skaters' skills, while Wendy Gila, president of Roller Sport South Africa, highlighted the dedication of the young athletes and the challenges they face, including access to expensive equipment and limited practice facilities.

Workers represented by Cosatu have begun gathering in Braamfontein for a protest march in Johannesburg, highlighting issues such as high interest rates, inflation, corruption, and unemployment. Norman Mampane, Cosatu's communication officer, emphasized the importance of addressing youth unemployment and called for the implementation of the Zondo commission's recommendations to combat corruption.

Workers represented by Cosatu protested in Johannesburg against high interest rates, inflation, corruption, and unemployment, emphasizing youth unemployment and calling for the implementation of the Zondo commission's recommendations. Demonstrators handed over memorandums to various government departments, expressing dissatisfaction with Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi's absence. Cosatu has given the government 14 days to respond, threatening further action if the response is inadequate.

Hundreds of young people marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria under the National Youth Coalition to commemorate the Soweto uprising and voice grievances. Key issues included youth unemployment, gender-based violence, and climate change. Protesters demanded younger leaders, sustainable jobs, and urgent government action on these issues. A memorandum was handed to the Presidency, with organizers expressing disappointment over the lack of response to previous demands.

The Brixton Light Festival, a community-led event in Johannesburg, provided relief and joy to residents after a tragic fire in the city. The festival featured live performances, art, and lights, celebrating Brixton's creative spirit. Highlights included the Isegazini Theatre Group's environmental show, Exotically Divine Pulse's recycled material costumes, and the National Youth Orchestra's performance. A street parade and art installations also marked the event, showcasing community activism and creativity.

John Steenhuisen was re-elected as the federal leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) during the party's congress. In his victory speech, he declared the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as the DA's primary political enemy and committed to opposing them. He also warned of a potential coalition between the African National Congress (ANC) and EFF in the 2024 elections. Steenhuisen emphasized the need for a broad-based movement to unseat the ANC and called for the DA to lead an alternative that would bring positive change to South Africa.

John Steenhuisen was re-elected as the federal leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) during the party's congress. In his victory speech, he declared the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led by Julius Malema, as the DA's primary political adversary. Steenhuisen emphasized the need for a broad-based movement to dethrone the African National Congress (ANC) in the 2024 elections and warned of a potential ANC/EFF coalition.

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola addressed the public embarrassment caused by Thabo Bester's escape, emphasizing the need for his recapture and accountability for those involved. Lamola defended his position, stating that calls for his resignation should be based on investigative reports. He assured that actions have been taken in compliance with the Correctional Services Act and that the government remains committed to upholding the rule of law. Over 600 newly qualified prosecutors were inaugurated in Johannesburg.

Ronald Lamola, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, addressed the public embarrassment caused by Thabo Bester's escape during a ceremony for new prosecutors in Johannesburg. Lamola emphasized the need to recapture Bester and hold accountable those who facilitated his escape. He responded to calls for his resignation by stating that such decisions should be based on investigative reports. Lamola assured that both he and the national commissioner would take ultimate responsibility and continue to account to the public.

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola addressed the escape of Thabo Bester, calling it a significant public embarrassment for the government. He emphasized the need for Bester's recapture and accountability for those involved in the escape. Lamola defended his position, stating that calls for his resignation should be based on investigative reports. He assured that actions have been taken in compliance with the Correctional Services Act and that the government will continue to account for the incident. Over 600 new prosecutors were inaugurated and will serve in district courts across South Africa.

A Shabbat and discussion on the war in Gaza took place at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg, co-hosted by South African Jews for a Free Palestine. The event aimed to renew commitment to Palestinian rights and foster peace. Attendees included Graça Machel and Minister Ronald Lamola. Speakers addressed the need for a multifaceted approach to peace, beyond legal action, emphasizing people's power. South Africa's involvement with the International Court of Justice and its request regarding Israel's actions in Rafah were also discussed.

Nomvula Mokonyane, a candidate for ANC deputy secretary-general, emphasizes the need to reconnect the party with the masses and address organizational issues. She received 1,779 branch nominations, while Febe Potgieter made the ballot with 905 nominations. Mokonyane addressed corruption allegations against her and her relationship with former deputy secretary-general Jessie Duarte. The ANC's upcoming elective conference in Johannesburg will also discuss the Phala Phala farm saga involving President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Nomvula Mokonyane, vying for the position of ANC deputy secretary-general, emphasizes the need to reconnect the party with the masses. She highlights her organizational skills and addresses past corruption allegations. The ANC's upcoming elective conference in Johannesburg will also tackle the Phala Phala farm saga, with President Cyril Ramaphosa facing calls for resignation.

South Africa is experiencing a persistent increase in violent crime, with significant rises in murders, kidnappings, rapes, and carjackings according to recent police statistics. The number of kidnappings has doubled, and over 7,000 murders were reported in a three-month period, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. Police Minister Bheki Cele announced the recruitment of 10,000 new police officers to boost visibility and combat crime, especially during the festive season. The largest labor confederation, COSATU, highlighted a decrease in police force numbers over the past decade. Opposition party Democratic Alliance criticized the government's response to the crime wave, with calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to dismiss Cele.