Four academics and activists have launched Vuka Azania, a new advocacy group calling for a discussion on changing South Africa's name. The group proposes "Azania" as an alternative, reviving a name associated with liberation movements during apartheid. Reverend Dr Allan Boesak, senior counsel Dr Muzi Sikhakhane, Professor Isaac Shai, and Arthur Fraser launched the movement in Sandton. Sikhakhane clarified that Vuka Azania is not a political party. Boesak argued that the country's colonial history has led to a "spiritual degradation of the African people" and that the colonial name "South Africa" cannot encompass the memory, pain, struggle, and destiny of indigenous people. He stated that a liberated people must name themselves to restore dignity and that Vuka Azania will advocate for a decolonized post-colonial constitution. Sikhakhane emphasized the need for a "grand discussion" on the country's future, aiming for a black people's convention to discuss their condition and destiny.
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Western Cape police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder of Democratic Alliance DA councillor Sinovuyo Dyokwe. Dyokwe was shot dead near Dunoon on June 20 after campaigning for voter registration. The Serious Violent Crime Investigation unit and Special Task Force made the arrest on Saturday in Parklands. The South African Police Service Saps stated that Dyokwe was followed out of Dunoon by two armed suspects, with the arrested individual allegedly orchestrating the attack. Investigations revealed Dyokwe was being extorted for protection money and was targeted after refusing to comply. Police seized the vehicle allegedly used in the crime and seven cellular phones. The 37-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate鈥檚 Court on Monday to face charges of murder and extortion. Saps indicated that further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues. In a separate incident, a 38-year-old foreign national was arrested in the Free State for the fatal stabbing of a woman at a tavern near Stilte Park. The suspect is expected in the Virginia Magistrate鈥檚 Court on Monday, facing charges of murder, contravention of the Immigration Act, and possession of a dangerous weapon.
The African Transformation Movement ATM and Vuyo Zungula have filed an urgent direct appeal to the Constitutional Court, requesting a review of a Western Cape High Court ruling. The High Court had granted President Cyril Ramaphosa an interim order to pause his impeachment inquiry, stemming from the Section 89 panel's report on the Phala Phala matter, until his challenge to the report is decided. Ramaphosa's review aims to overturn the report's conclusion that he has questions to answer regarding funds stolen from his farm in 2020. Zungula argues that the High Court's decision creates uncertainty regarding the Constitutional Court's authority, particularly whether a lower court can suspend the implementation of a Constitutional Court order. He emphasized the need for clarity on the constitutional relationship between the judiciary and Parliament, the separation of powers, and the supremacy of the Constitution. Zungula also noted that the High Court's decision was not unanimous and that the ruling does not exonerate the President. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, speaking at an ANC rally, urged critics to respect judicial decisions, regardless of whether they are favorable. The Presidency welcomed the High Court's judgment, reiterating Ramaphosa's commitment to due process and respect for judicial independence.
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba affirmed that the ANC is undergoing renewal and is capable of resolving local government issues, stating the party has not betrayed former President Nelson Mandela's legacy. Speaking at the Limpopo ANC鈥檚 Mandela Legacy Rally in Thohoyandou, Ramathuba referenced Mandela's 1993 warning that voters should abandon the ANC if it failed the people. She argued that infrastructure projects, such as a water purification project completed ahead of schedule and under budget in Ga-Phasha, demonstrate the ANC has not met the criteria for Mandela's warning. Ramathuba emphasized the party's commitment to addressing poverty, student fees, youth unemployment, and economic transformation to create jobs. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, also present, urged the provincial executive to prioritize economic growth and infrastructure development, highlighting the importance of strong leadership in municipalities for service delivery. Ramathuba concluded by noting the ANC's 114-year history, asserting its resilience and ongoing efforts to fix challenges.