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馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路44 mins ago
MK party faces funding challenges for elections, analyst suggests unconventional campaign strategy
The MK party appears to be struggling with campaign funding for the upcoming local government elections, with volunteers reporting a lack of resources and former spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela indicating an over-reliance on Independent Electoral Commission IEC funds. Ndhlela suggested the party needs a dedicated fundraiser and should evolve into an "institution" or think tank to attract international donors, rather than solely relying on IEC funding. Political analyst Andre Duvenhage commented that despite financial difficulties, the MK party might adopt an unconventional campaign approach, focusing on grassroots mobilization and capitalizing on existing instability, including tensions between anti-migrant groups and foreign nationals. Duvenhage suggested this strategy could involve intimidation, violence, and confrontation, particularly in areas with Zulu prominence like KwaZulu-Natal. He also noted that the party's initial funding sources in 2023 were unclear, with implications of involvement from Russia and Iran.
2 min read
馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路2 hours ago
Suspected rhino poacher killed in Limpopo shootout with anti-poaching unit
A suspected rhino poacher was fatally wounded during a confrontation with Anti-Poaching Unit members on a farm in the Pienaarsrivier policing precinct in Limpopo's Waterberg District. The unit was on routine patrol when they heard three gunshots and deployed drones. A drone located suspected poachers, who fled into nearby bushes. One suspect, observed with a rifle, opened fire on APU members and a drone, prompting police to return fire in self-defense, killing the suspect. Three fresh white rhino carcasses were later found on the farm; two had been dehorned. A knife and sheaths were recovered near the carcasses. The deceased suspect had no identification, and a firearm was found next to him. Police have opened cases of rhino poaching, attempted murder, and murder, and a manhunt is underway for the remaining unknown suspects.
1 min read
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馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路5 hours ago
Ramaphosa defends Speaker Didiza's independence amid impeachment court clash
President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended Speaker of Parliament Thoko Didiza's decision not to oppose his urgent application to interdict the impeachment committee, asserting her independence and adherence to the constitution. Didiza filed a notice to abide by the court's ruling and will submit an explanatory affidavit to assist the Western Cape High Court. This decision comes after the impeachment committee resolved to oppose Ramaphosa's application, following advice from an independent legal expert. Ramaphosa, speaking on the sidelines of an ANC voter registration campaign, emphasized the separation of powers, stating that the Speaker must act independently. He approached the Western Cape High Court seeking an urgent interdict to prevent the start of an impeachment inquiry until his review application against the Section 89 Independent Panel's report is finalized. Opposition parties, including ActionSA, ATM, MK party, and EFF, have criticized Didiza's move, calling it partisan and a dereliction of duty. The DA also supports the legal opinion that Parliament should oppose the application. The High Court is scheduled to hear Ramaphosa's interdict application on July 15 and 16.
4 min read