South Africa: Today’s latest news and headlines, Monday 18 November

Stay up to date with the latest news in South Africa by reviewing all major headlines on Monday 18 November.

As John Steenhuisen begins his first day on the job as interim leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), factional infighting and further allegations of financial impropriety continue to hound the ruling African National Congress (ANC). In sport news, Bafana redeemed themselves in the Afcon 2021 qualification round by defeating Sudan.

Today’s latest news in South Africa, Monday 18 November

John Steenhuisen leads the DA until April 2020

After quickly ascending to the prestigious position of parliamentary leader in the wake of Mmusi Maimane’s resignation in October, John Steenhuisen confidently contested the primary position within the official opposition party.

On Sunday, Steenhuisen was elected as interim leader of the DA, eclipsing his competitor, Makashule Gana, by a wide margin.

Ivan Meyer, the Minister of Agriculture in the Western Cape, was voted in as  interim Federal Chairperson.

These appointments come in the wake of a leadership crisis, emanating from the exodus of Maimane and other senior party members, which is said to be a direct consequence of Helen Zille’s return to the DA’s executive.

Upon winning the interim leadership race on Sunday, which is expected to return some semblance of normality to the embattled party, Steenhuisen said:

“As we set off on this path, I want you to know exactly what you can expect from me.

I will shoot straight. I will not have different conversations with different people. My views will be consistent, and you will always know where you stand.”

Strikes, safety issues and looming insolvency: The end of SAA?

The end of South African Airways (SAA) looms, as wholesale strike action, sever financial difficulties and alleged safety issues plague the national carrier. Acting SAA chair, Thandeka Mgoduso, admitted that it would near-impossible for the airline to bounce back following the latest bout of disasters.

Last week, unions representing thousands of SAA staff, embarked on strike action which grounded almost all flights. While the strike was only expected to disrupt flights until Saturday, SAA announced that operation would still be affected on Sunday and Monday – troubles which are expected to cost the airline in excess of R200 million.

While SAA has attempted to mitigate further disturbances, the airline as dealt another blow on Sunday, when the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) warned passengers not to ‘risk their safety’ by flying on SAA. According to the union, SAA is attempting to operate airplanes which have not been maintained by permanent staff. The union said:

“We are warning all passengers not to fly SAA because your safety is not guaranteed. Our members who are safety officers and technicians are on strike. We are warning the public that if they fly SAA during this strike they are putting their lives at risk.”

Lord Peter Hain at the State Capture Inquiry

Lord Peter Hain, a former United Kingdom Labour politician, will today address the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture. Hain is expected to testify on the subject of international complicity with regards to state-endorsed corruption.

Hain is expected to detail how banks and corporate enterprises aided state capture after his own experiences with British firm Hogan Lovells which has been compared to controversial public relations organisation, Bell Pottinger.

Alexandra Renewal Project back under the microscope

The South African Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Public Protector will convene a closed-door session of the Alexandra inquiry.

The Commission and Office of the Public Protector will receive statements from and ask questions of individuals who previously held positions of oversight in relation to the Alexandra Renewal Project (ARP).

The purpose of this is to obtain further insight into the earlier days of the ARP and to give the individuals an opportunity to provide their responses. (Source: ANA)

Bafana earn vital Afcon qualifier win over Sudan

South Africa beat Sudan 1-0 in an Africa Cup of Nations 2021 qualifier match played at Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

It was a good response from Bafana Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki’s troops after they lost 2-0 to Ghana away earlier in the week.

Man of the match Lebogang Phiri’s piledriver on the stroke of halftime proved to be the difference in the clash. (Source: ANA)

Nedbank Golf Challenge: Fleetwood claims the title in play-off

Englishman Tommy Fleetwood beat Swede Marcus Kinhult in a play-off to win his second Rolex Series title at the Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City on Sunday.

Fleetwood started his final round at Gary Player Country Club six shots off the lead but made three eagles as he shot a stunning closing round 65 to set the target at 12-under.

Kinhult was the picture of Swedish consistency during his final round 68. He was on the hunt for a second European Tour title of the season after his victory at the Betfred British Masters – where Fleetwood was the host.

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