Commission links historical tensions to deadly 2021 Phoenix attacks

On Monday, the Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic (CRL) Rights Commission, alongside the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), presented their findings from the investigative hearings on the July unrest.

The results suggest that longstanding tensions between Indian and African communities might have played a role in the fatal racial attacks in Phoenix during 2021, resulting in 36 casualties.

The commission revealed that they consulted with a range of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, representatives from Phoenix, and victims of the violent incidents.

"First, we found that there existed the historical relationship between members of the African communities and the Indian communities. Why? The mistrust of the Africans by the Indians allegedly led to the killing of Africans by the Indians, as cited by some members of the community, and this, in their view, has a historical genesis or historical origin in 1949 events," said David Mosoma, CLR Rights Commission chairperson.

EWN's Nhlanhla Mabaso shares more.

Usindiso fire inquiry: First survivor takes witness stand

The Usindiso inquiry proceeded as the initial survivor testified.

This follows the revelation of a man who purportedly initiated the fire, confessing that it was ignited to eliminate evidence following a homicide.

Sadly, the flames spread throughout the structure, resulting in the tragic loss of over 70 lives and the displacement of hundreds.

Kenneth Dube, emotionally overwhelmed, broke down in tears before the Commission of Inquiry as he reflected on how this incident has profoundly impacted his life, reports EWN.

“A month before the building was gutted by the fire, someone was shot and killed on the second floor during a robbery. This was the life inside the building," said Dube.

EWN's Alpha Ramushwana has more (skip to 9:49).

ANC's decision on how it plans to deal with Jacob Zuma postponed

The ANC is anticipated to announce its resolution regarding the handling of its former president, Jacob Zuma, who has been actively involved in campaigning for the newly registered uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.

However, according to EWN's Thabiso Gobo, the decision has been delayed.

Gobo suggests that Zuma may face charges but recognises that the party must adhere to its internal procedures.

Skip to 14:05 for more.

"If they want to expel him from the party, they're gonna have to go through all the formal processes."

Thabiso Goba, EWN

Nchupetsang Attorneys to probe the drowning of Laerskool Queenswood student Latoya Temilton

Two weeks ago, the Grade 7 student from Laerskool Queenswood, aged 12, tragically lost her life in a drowning incident during a school outing.

Allegedly, the school had requested both students and Latoya's parents to refrain from making public statements about the incident.

The Gauteng Education MEC visited the school to announce that Nchupetsang Attorneys would conduct the investigation.

Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, mentioned that there is a seven-day time frame for the inquiry, involving interactions with all concerned parties, a visit to the incident site, and a review of camera footage.

Skip to 25:26 for more.

Cape Winelands fire update: 'We're very fortunate as a municipality to be well-equipped'

Firefighters from Cape Winelands District Municipality are confronting a challenging situation as a sprawling vegetation fire persists for an eighth consecutive day.

The fire is thought to be exacerbated by a mix of alien vegetation and strong winds.

Jo-Anne Otto of the Cape Winelands District affirms that substantial progress has been achieved in containing the fire.

Bain's Kloof is currently inaccessible as efforts are concentrated on actively combatting the fires and ensuring the protection of structures.

Currently, there is no immediate threat to human life.

Otto emphasises the collaborative effort, with approximately 150 to 160 firefighters actively engaged in the ground operations to control the fires.

For more, skip to 29:35.

"We're very fortunate as a municipality to be very well-equipped...we're well-resourced."

Jo-Anne Otto, Deputy Director of Communications – Cape Winelands District Municipality 

Severe weather warning issued for parts of Gauteng

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Severe Thunderstorms warning at Yellow Level 2 for certain areas of Gauteng.

Residents should be prepared for potential damaging winds, substantial hail, and intense downpours that could result in localised flooding.

Take precautions to stay warm and ensure your safety.

Elizabeth Viljoen from the South African Weather Service shares more (skip to 36:16).

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