Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa spoke out against a judicial report on the corruption during his time in office. He called it unlawful and full of gossip.

South Africa's former president Zuma slams Graft report as gossip

There seems to be no end to Jacob Zuma's legal votes. A new judicial inquiry report accuses the former South African President of stopping a probe into the Gupta brothers, it says that Zuma barred South Africa's spy agencies from investigating the Guptas.

Enquiry report on Zuma submitted amid reports of him stopping probe into Gupta brothers

Protests force South Africa's Eskom to widen power cuts - See pics

South Africa has lifted the mandatory use of mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, removed restrictions on gatherings and eased rules for travellers at Ports of entry.&nbsp;This was confirmed by the country's Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Having monitored the positive direction for more than three weeks we came to the conclusion that the peak infection which we concluded was a limited 5th wave driven by subvariants and not a new variant of concern was dissipating and that there was no more any eminent risk.&nbsp;

"It is on this basis that we approached the NCCC and the National Health Council which is made up of all Health MECs with a proposal that the limited regulations which dealt with:&nbsp; 
(a) Wearing of masks indoors&nbsp; 
(b) Limitations of gatherings&nbsp; 
(c) Vaccination proof or PCR negative tests at Ports of Entry, – should all be lifted.&nbsp;

"As a results of this, I signed a note in the Government Gazette last night releasing all the remaining health regulation," the minister said.&nbsp;

The mandatory wearing of masks comes to an end after more than two years since the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

While most South Africans have welcomed the government's decision joking, "finally we will be able to see smiley faces again," and, "we will be able to breathe mask free," some say they will continue to wear masks in public places for their health benefits.&nbsp;

However, the minister cautioned that the Covid virus is not yet gone and urged those not yet vaccinated to come forward and those due for boosters to also do so.&nbsp;

In South Africa, so far, more than 100,000 people have lost their lives due to Covid.&nbsp;

On Monkeypox, the minister said there has been one confirmed case so far. "Late yesterday, I received a report from the National Health laboratory Services CEO that they have confirmed through laboratory tests the first case of monkeypox in South Africa. The patient is a 30 year old male from Johannesburg who has no travel history, meaning that this cannot be attributed to having been acquired outside South Africa. Working with the relevant health authorities a process of contact tracing has begun," he said.&nbsp;

Monkeypox is usually a mild disease manifesting as blisters on the skin. It is usually mild and self-limiting with a fatality rate of 1%. The disease has previously been reported in African countries such as Nigeria, DRC, CA Republic and Ghana in the early 2000s. The current outbreak is dominated by high numbers in Europe e.g UK, Spain, Germany, Portugal and France. Cases have also been reported in the USA and Canada.&nbsp;

"The NICD is conducting online in service training for our health workers for them to be able to detect the disease so that the necessary laboratory tests can be done. The disease only spread through close droplets so you cannot get by being in the same room with an infected person," Phaahla said.&nbsp;

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South Africa has lifted the mandatory use of mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, removed restrictions on gatherings and eased rules for travellers at Ports of entry.

South Africa has lifted the mandatory use of mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, removed restrictions on gatherings and eased rules for travellers at Ports of entry. This was confirmed by the country's Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, on Thursday. "Having monitored the positive direction for more than three weeks we came to the conclusion that the peak infection which we concluded was a limited 5th wave driven by subvariants and not a new variant of concern was dissipating and that there was no more any eminent risk. "It is on this basis that we approached the NCCC and the National Health Council which is made up of all Health MECs with a proposal that the limited regulations which dealt with: (a) Wearing of masks indoors (b) Limitations of gatherings (c) Vaccination proof or PCR negative tests at Ports of Entry, – should all be lifted. "As a results of this, I signed a note in the Government Gazette last night releasing all the remaining health regulation," the minister said. The mandatory wearing of masks comes to an end after more than two years since the COVID-19 pandemic. While most South Africans have welcomed the government's decision joking, "finally we will be able to see smiley faces again," and, "we will be able to breathe mask free," some say they will continue to wear masks in public places for their health benefits. However, the minister cautioned that the Covid virus is not yet gone and urged those not yet vaccinated to come forward and those due for boosters to also do so. In South Africa, so far, more than 100,000 people have lost their lives due to Covid. On Monkeypox, the minister said there has been one confirmed case so far. "Late yesterday, I received a report from the National Health laboratory Services CEO that they have confirmed through laboratory tests the first case of monkeypox in South Africa. The patient is a 30 year old male from Johannesburg who has no travel history, meaning that this cannot be attributed to having been acquired outside South Africa. Working with the relevant health authorities a process of contact tracing has begun," he said. Monkeypox is usually a mild disease manifesting as blisters on the skin. It is usually mild and self-limiting with a fatality rate of 1%. The disease has previously been reported in African countries such as Nigeria, DRC, CA Republic and Ghana in the early 2000s. The current outbreak is dominated by high numbers in Europe e.g UK, Spain, Germany, Portugal and France. Cases have also been reported in the USA and Canada. "The NICD is conducting online in service training for our health workers for them to be able to detect the disease so that the necessary laboratory tests can be done. The disease only spread through close droplets so you cannot get by being in the same room with an infected person," Phaahla said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa lifts COVID-19 rules on mask-wearing, gatherings, entry

Africa, one of the most under-reported continents in the media sphere is now evolving fast. Catch all the latest vibrant, untold & intriguing stories on One Africa with Erik Njoka every Tuesday on WION.

One Africa: Youth day commemorates the Soweto uprising in South Africa

The much awaited and, after several delays, the final instalment of the State Capture report has been finally handed over by Chief Justice Raymomd Zondo to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday. The final report consists of two volumes. It covers the State Security Agency, the SABC, the ANC, Parliament, the Vrede Dairy Project, the landing of the Gupta plane at Waterkloof Air Force Base, and more. The last chapter covers the recommendations of the Zondo commission.

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption, and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State, better known as the Zondo Commission or State Capture Commission, was established in January 2018 by former President Jacob Zuma to investigate allegations of state capture, corruption, and fraud in the public sector in South Africa. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-gupta-brothers-arrested-in-dubai-on-corruption-charges-confirms-south-africa-485807">Watch: Gupta brothers arrested in Dubai on corruption charges, confirms South Africa</a>

"This day has arrived. It has been four-and-a-half years since the commission was established and it has been about three-and-a-half years since the hearing of oral evidence. There was a time when I wasn’t sure when this day would come. I am very glad it has come," Zondo said, who chaired the commission.

President Ramaphosa said the state capture was an assault on the country's democracy and violated the rights of every man, woman, and child in the country. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-gupta-brothers-from-india-landed-south-africas-ruling-party-in-its-biggest-crisis-397138">Also read | How Gupta brothers from India landed South Africa's ruling party in its biggest crisis</a>

"Through the various reports released by the Commission, we have come to understand what happened, who was involved, and what effect state capture has had on our state, our economy, and our society," Ramaphosa said.

The State of Capture report has presented evidence of the abuse of power and of how public institutions were repurposed to enable corrupt activities to take place.

"The report is far more than a record of widespread corruption, fraud, and abuse; it is also an instrument through which the country can work to ensure that such events are never allowed to happen again," the President said.

At the heart of the commission’s investigations over the past four years has been former President Jacob Zuma and his close friends and infamous businessmen, the Gupta brothers, who are alleged to have amassed a major fortune during Zuma's administration.

The work of the Commission was vast, but the country has already seen small results. Former President Jacob Zuma was sent to prison last year in July after failing to meet the court's directive that he should testify at the commission.

After testifying once, Zuma refused to go back again to the commission to testify, saying that Zondo was biassed and that until and unless Zondo was removed, he would not testify.

Since then, Zuma has been released on parole, but his release is still being debated.

In early June, the police in Dubai announced that they had arrested two of the Gupta brothers, Atul and Rajesh, who had fled there around the time the inquiry began in 2018. South Africa and the UAE government are still discussing the extradition process so that the brothers can have their day in court in South Africa.

The submission of the final report brings to an end the work of the Commission and marks the fulfilment of the weighty mandate given to the Commission. Now the ball is in President Cyril Ramaphosa's court.

"Within four months from this date, I will formally present to Parliament the full report of the Commission together with an indication of my intentions on the implementation of the Commission’s recommendations," Ramaphosa said. 
&nbsp;

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The much awaited and, after several delays, the final instalment of the State Capture report has been finally handed over by Chief Justice Raymomd Zondo to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday.

The much awaited and, after several delays, the final instalment of the State Capture report has been finally handed over by Chief Justice Raymomd Zondo to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday. The final report consists of two volumes. It covers the State Security Agency, the SABC, the ANC, Parliament, the Vrede Dairy Project, the landing of the Gupta plane at Waterkloof Air Force Base, and more. The last chapter covers the recommendations of the Zondo commission. The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption, and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State, better known as the Zondo Commission or State Capture Commission, was established in January 2018 by former President Jacob Zuma to investigate allegations of state capture, corruption, and fraud in the public sector in South Africa. Watch: Gupta brothers arrested in Dubai on corruption charges, confirms South Africa "This day has arrived. It has been four-and-a-half years since the commission was established and it has been about three-and-a-half years since the hearing of oral evidence. There was a time when I wasn’t sure when this day would come. I am very glad it has come," Zondo said, who chaired the commission. President Ramaphosa said the state capture was an assault on the country's democracy and violated the rights of every man, woman, and child in the country. Also read | How Gupta brothers from India landed South Africa's ruling party in its biggest crisis "Through the various reports released by the Commission, we have come to understand what happened, who was involved, and what effect state capture has had on our state, our economy, and our society," Ramaphosa said. The State of Capture report has presented evidence of the abuse of power and of how public institutions were repurposed to enable corrupt activities to take place. "The report is far more than a record of widespread corruption, fraud, and abuse; it is also an instrument through which the country can work to ensure that such events are never allowed to happen again," the President said. At the heart of the commission’s investigations over the past four years has been former President Jacob Zuma and his close friends and infamous businessmen, the Gupta brothers, who are alleged to have amassed a major fortune during Zuma's administration. The work of the Commission was vast, but the country has already seen small results. Former President Jacob Zuma was sent to prison last year in July after failing to meet the court's directive that he should testify at the commission. After testifying once, Zuma refused to go back again to the commission to testify, saying that Zondo was biassed and that until and unless Zondo was removed, he would not testify. Since then, Zuma has been released on parole, but his release is still being debated. In early June, the police in Dubai announced that they had arrested two of the Gupta brothers, Atul and Rajesh, who had fled there around the time the inquiry began in 2018. South Africa and the UAE government are still discussing the extradition process so that the brothers can have their day in court in South Africa. The submission of the final report brings to an end the work of the Commission and marks the fulfilment of the weighty mandate given to the Commission. Now the ball is in President Cyril Ramaphosa's court. "Within four months from this date, I will formally present to Parliament the full report of the Commission together with an indication of my intentions on the implementation of the Commission’s recommendations," Ramaphosa said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Zupta' corruption in South Africa: Zondo commission submits final Zuma-era graft report

The Democratic Alliance, South Africa's second largest political party, said on Tuesday that they have written to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate President Cyril Ramphosa for alleged money laundering.

"Specifically, we have requested that the FBI consider investigating the source of the funds and whether the funds were brought into South Africa legitimately and declared to the appropriate authorities," John Steenhuisen, leader of the party, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-rubbishes-allegations-of-improper-conduct-claims-innocence-485860">South African President Cyril Ramaphosa rubbishes allegations of improper conduct, claims innocence</a>

This comes after former State Security Agency boss Arthur Fraser opened a criminal case against the President, alleging him of corruption, money laundering and kidnapping, claiming that Ramaphosa concealed a robbery in which millions of dollars were stolen from his Phala Phala farm in February 2020.

"We have recommended that the ledgers or journals which would have recorded the alleged sale of wild game at auction be requested from the president, to determine the identities of those involved in the suspicious cash transactions," Steenhuisen added.

Watch |&nbsp;South African President Cyril Ramaphosa suspends country's public protector Ombudswoman Mkhwebane

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"A cash transaction within South Africa involving $4 million is deeply suspicious, and more so since the cash was then hidden in furniture, and its theft was investigated off the record and covered up," he said.

President Ramaphosa has, however, refuted these claims but confirmed that a robbery had taken place at the President’s farm in Limpopo on or around February 9, 2020, in which proceeds from the sale of game were stolen, and that the incident had been reported to the head of the Presidential Protection Unit of the South African Police Service for investigation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ryanair-drops-afrikaans-test-after-backlash-in-south-africa-488446">Ryanair drops Afrikaans test after backlash in South Africa</a>

Besides the FBI, the DA said they have written to several other agencies to investigate the matter.

Other political parties in the country have also called on the state agencies to act quickly and investigate the matter. Few even called on the President to step aside from his duties until the matter is investigated.&nbsp;

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The Democratic Alliance, South Africa's second largest political party, said on Tuesday that they have written to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate President Cyril Ramphosa for alleged money laundering.

The Democratic Alliance, South Africa's second largest political party, said on Tuesday that they have written to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate President Cyril Ramphosa for alleged money laundering. "Specifically, we have requested that the FBI consider investigating the source of the funds and whether the funds were brought into South Africa legitimately and declared to the appropriate authorities," John Steenhuisen, leader of the party, said. Also read | South African President Cyril Ramaphosa rubbishes allegations of improper conduct, claims innocence This comes after former State Security Agency boss Arthur Fraser opened a criminal case against the President, alleging him of corruption, money laundering and kidnapping, claiming that Ramaphosa concealed a robbery in which millions of dollars were stolen from his Phala Phala farm in February 2020. "We have recommended that the ledgers or journals which would have recorded the alleged sale of wild game at auction be requested from the president, to determine the identities of those involved in the suspicious cash transactions," Steenhuisen added. Watch | South African President Cyril Ramaphosa suspends country's public protector Ombudswoman Mkhwebane "A cash transaction within South Africa involving $4 million is deeply suspicious, and more so since the cash was then hidden in furniture, and its theft was investigated off the record and covered up," he said. President Ramaphosa has, however, refuted these claims but confirmed that a robbery had taken place at the President’s farm in Limpopo on or around February 9, 2020, in which proceeds from the sale of game were stolen, and that the incident had been reported to the head of the Presidential Protection Unit of the South African Police Service for investigation. Also read | Ryanair drops Afrikaans test after backlash in South Africa Besides the FBI, the DA said they have written to several other agencies to investigate the matter. Other political parties in the country have also called on the state agencies to act quickly and investigate the matter. Few even called on the President to step aside from his duties until the matter is investigated. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa’s main opposition party requests FBI to probe Ramaphosa

What is the scandal engulfing South African President Cyril Ramaphosa?

Near Johannesburg in South Africa, a hospital takes custody of pangolins seized during police operations. They are treated and rehabilitated to be released back into the wild one day.

Johannesburg hospital gives Pangolins new lease on life

Youth day in South Africa commemorates the Soweto uprising of June 16, 1976. In 1975, protests started in South African schools following a directive from the then Bantu Education department that said that Afrikaans had to be used as an equal basis with the English as the language of instruction in secondary schools.

Soweto uprising changed South Africa's political landscape

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday.

Yuzvendra Chahal (3/20) and Harshal Patel (4/25) led the way with the ball after sizzling half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (57) and Ishan Kishan (54) powered India to 179 for five.

The bowlers came good after opener Gaikwad turned things around with a scintillating knock and Ishan scored his second fifty of the series.

Under the scanner for his patchy form of late, Gaikwad hit two maximums and seven fours in his 35-ball knock, and Ishan too scored his runs in 35 balls after being asked to take first strike.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-media-rights-auction-disney-star-viacom18-among-winners-as-bcci-earn-unimaginable-amount-488118" hreflang="en">IPL media rights auction: Disney Star, Viacom18 among winners as BCCI earns UNIMAGINABLE amount</a>

Defending the total, skipper Rishabh Pant introduced the spinners early and Axar Patel produced the first breakthrough with a fuller delivery as Temba Bavuma (8) holed out to Avesh Khan in the 4th over.

Chahal was rewarded for bowling quick as he got extra bounce from the wicket to get the better of Rassie van der Dussen (1), Dwaine Pretorius (20) and Heinrich Klassen (29).

Harshal mixed his deliveries well to first remove Reeza Hendricks (23) and David Miller (3) and then returned to finish things off with the wickets of Kagiso Rabada (9) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0) as South Africa were bundled out for 131.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/21) too bowled with a lot of heart.

Earlier, Gaikwad and Ishan hit two sixes each and shared 12 boundaries to set the platform but South Africa tightened the screws in the second half to keep India inside 180.

It was Gaikwad, who turned aggressor after a watchful start and exploded in the fifth over, slamming five successive boundaries off Anrich Nortje.

If the first one was cut with aplomb, he danced down the track for the second four. The third boundary was a lucky one as the ball hit his grill while Gaikwad tried to move away from a nasty bouncer.

Gaikwad then punished Nortje for bowling a half volley and the fifth ball was sent across the third man. 
The Maharashtra batter also deposited Dwaine Pretorius over deep backward square for his second six as India posted 57 for no loss in six overs, their best powerplay in the series.

Ishan, who was playing second fiddle, got into the act in the ninth over, smacking Shamsi's overpitched ball for a maximum before sweeping him for another four as 13 runs came from the over.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zee-entertainment-enterprises-releases-official-statement-after-transparent-ipl-media-rights-auction-488179" hreflang="en">Zee releases official statement after IPL media rights auction</a>

Gaikwad completed his fifty in 30 balls and then welcomed Keshav Maharaj with an inside out lift for a four, but the spinner had him caught off his own bowling with India on 97 for one at the halfway stage. 
Ishan then gave a special treatment to Maharaj, picking up two fours and a six en route a 31-ball fifty, his second of the series.

New-man Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch as he blasted a six each off Nortje and Shamsi, but the spinner dismissed him with Nortje timing his jump to perfection for a nice catch.

Pretorius pegged India further back by getting rid off Ishan, who was caught by Hendricks. 
It could have been five down but David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen dropped two sitters to give a lives to Hardik Pandya (29) and Rishabh Pant (6).

Temba Bavuma finally caught one off Pretorius to remove Pant as South Africa slowed things down. 
The hosts managed just 20 runs while losing two wickets from over 13 to 17 before Hardik Pandya took them close to 180 with some lusty blows in the final stages.

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday.

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday. Yuzvendra Chahal (3/20) and Harshal Patel (4/25) led the way with the ball after sizzling half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (57) and Ishan Kishan (54) powered India to 179 for five. The bowlers came good after opener Gaikwad turned things around with a scintillating knock and Ishan scored his second fifty of the series. Under the scanner for his patchy form of late, Gaikwad hit two maximums and seven fours in his 35-ball knock, and Ishan too scored his runs in 35 balls after being asked to take first strike. Also read | IPL media rights auction: Disney Star, Viacom18 among winners as BCCI earns UNIMAGINABLE amount Defending the total, skipper Rishabh Pant introduced the spinners early and Axar Patel produced the first breakthrough with a fuller delivery as Temba Bavuma (8) holed out to Avesh Khan in the 4th over. Chahal was rewarded for bowling quick as he got extra bounce from the wicket to get the better of Rassie van der Dussen (1), Dwaine Pretorius (20) and Heinrich Klassen (29). Harshal mixed his deliveries well to first remove Reeza Hendricks (23) and David Miller (3) and then returned to finish things off with the wickets of Kagiso Rabada (9) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0) as South Africa were bundled out for 131. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/21) too bowled with a lot of heart. Earlier, Gaikwad and Ishan hit two sixes each and shared 12 boundaries to set the platform but South Africa tightened the screws in the second half to keep India inside 180. It was Gaikwad, who turned aggressor after a watchful start and exploded in the fifth over, slamming five successive boundaries off Anrich Nortje. If the first one was cut with aplomb, he danced down the track for the second four. The third boundary was a lucky one as the ball hit his grill while Gaikwad tried to move away from a nasty bouncer. Gaikwad then punished Nortje for bowling a half volley and the fifth ball was sent across the third man. The Maharashtra batter also deposited Dwaine Pretorius over deep backward square for his second six as India posted 57 for no loss in six overs, their best powerplay in the series. Ishan, who was playing second fiddle, got into the act in the ninth over, smacking Shamsi's overpitched ball for a maximum before sweeping him for another four as 13 runs came from the over. Also read | Zee releases official statement after IPL media rights auction Gaikwad completed his fifty in 30 balls and then welcomed Keshav Maharaj with an inside out lift for a four, but the spinner had him caught off his own bowling with India on 97 for one at the halfway stage. Ishan then gave a special treatment to Maharaj, picking up two fours and a six en route a 31-ball fifty, his second of the series. New-man Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch as he blasted a six each off Nortje and Shamsi, but the spinner dismissed him with Nortje timing his jump to perfection for a nice catch. Pretorius pegged India further back by getting rid off Ishan, who was caught by Hendricks. It could have been five down but David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen dropped two sitters to give a lives to Hardik Pandya (29) and Rishabh Pant (6). Temba Bavuma finally caught one off Pretorius to remove Pant as South Africa slowed things down. The hosts managed just 20 runs while losing two wickets from over 13 to 17 before Hardik Pandya took them close to 180 with some lusty blows in the final stages.

Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa

Ryanair&nbsp;has dropped a requirement for South African passengers to prove their nationality before travelling by completing a test in Afrikaans, Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said after the policy drew a backlash among South Africans.

The South African government said last week it was taken aback by the low cost carrier's decision to force UK-bound travelers holding the country's passport to take the test, calling the move a "backward profiling system".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-airport-labour-strife-staff-shortages-disrupt-summer-travel-486652">European airport labour strife, staff shortages disrupt summer travel</a>

Afrikaans is spoken by just 12 per cent&nbsp;of the 58 million people in the country and often associated with apartheid and white minority rule.

O'Leary, whose airline does not operate flights to and from South Africa but carries more passengers around Europe than anyone else, described the South African government's profiling accusation as "rubbish" but said the test had been dropped.

Watch |&nbsp;Europe's largest Airline Ryanair faces outrage over test in Afrikaans for South Africans

"The South African government have acknowledged that there's a problem with the vast number of false or fake South African passports", O'Leary told a news conference in Brussels on Tuesday, citing a surge in false South African passports on a route between Turkey and Ireland.

"Our team issued a test in Afrikaans of 12 simple questions like what's the name of the mountain outside Pretoria. They have no difficulty completing that, but we've we didn't think it was appropriate either. So we have ended the Afrikaans test because doesn't make any sense".

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Ryanair has dropped a requirement for South African passengers to prove their nationality before travelling by completing a test in Afrikaans, Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said after the policy drew a backlash among South Africans.

Ryanair has dropped a requirement for South African passengers to prove their nationality before travelling by completing a test in Afrikaans, Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said after the policy drew a backlash among South Africans. The South African government said last week it was taken aback by the low cost carrier's decision to force UK-bound travelers holding the country's passport to take the test, calling the move a "backward profiling system". Also read | European airport labour strife, staff shortages disrupt summer travel Afrikaans is spoken by just 12 per cent of the 58 million people in the country and often associated with apartheid and white minority rule. O'Leary, whose airline does not operate flights to and from South Africa but carries more passengers around Europe than anyone else, described the South African government's profiling accusation as "rubbish" but said the test had been dropped. Watch | Europe's largest Airline Ryanair faces outrage over test in Afrikaans for South Africans "The South African government have acknowledged that there's a problem with the vast number of false or fake South African passports", O'Leary told a news conference in Brussels on Tuesday, citing a surge in false South African passports on a route between Turkey and Ireland. "Our team issued a test in Afrikaans of 12 simple questions like what's the name of the mountain outside Pretoria. They have no difficulty completing that, but we've we didn't think it was appropriate either. So we have ended the Afrikaans test because doesn't make any sense".

Ryanair drops Afrikaans test after backlash in South Africa

Heinrich Klaasen scored a brilliant 46-ball-81 as South Africa defeated India by four wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series on Sunday. Chasing a target of 149 on a tricky pitch, the Proteas lost three early wickets with Bhuvneshwar Kumar claiming all three scalps. However, Klassen looked quite comfortable against the Indian bowlers and with 7 fours and 5 sixes, he was able to clinch the game for the visitors with the help of David Miller. Bhuvneshwar ended up with impressive bowling figures of 4/13 in 4 overs, but it was not enough to stop a second consecutive loss for India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-media-rights-bidding-war-crosses-53-billion-mark-more-than-double-of-previous-value-reports-487516" hreflang="en">IPL media rights bidding war crosses $5.3 billion mark, more than double of previous value - Reports</a>

Klassen was well supported by skipper Temba Bavuma as he scored 35 off 30 balls and with the match getting closer towards the end, Miller continued his brilliant form with 20 off 15 deliveries.

Earlier, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan failed to capitalise on good starts while Anrich Nortje took two wickets as the hosts were restricted to 149/6 in Cuttack. The Indian batsmen failed to score at a steady pace and with Kagiso Rabada bothering them with a strict line and length, they failed to replicate their good start in the previous match in Delhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-generates-more-revenue-than-english-premier-league-claims-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-487487" hreflang="en">IPL generates more revenue than English Premier League, says Ganguly</a>

India kept losing wickets at regular intervals as the pitch provided assistance to the pacers and there were a number of good starts but none of them went on to become big knocks. Dinesh Karthik slammed 30 runs off just 21 balls to take India to a competitive total but it was less around 15-20 runs below the par score. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Heinrich Klaasen scored a brilliant 46-ball-81 as South Africa defeated India by four wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series on Sunday. Chasing a target of 149 on a tricky pitch, the Proteas lost three early wickets with Bhuvneshwar Kumar claiming all three scalps.

Heinrich Klaasen scored a brilliant 46-ball-81 as South Africa defeated India by four wickets to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match ODI series on Sunday. Chasing a target of 149 on a tricky pitch, the Proteas lost three early wickets with Bhuvneshwar Kumar claiming all three scalps. However, Klassen looked quite comfortable against the Indian bowlers and with 7 fours and 5 sixes, he was able to clinch the game for the visitors with the help of David Miller. Bhuvneshwar ended up with impressive bowling figures of 4/13 in 4 overs, but it was not enough to stop a second consecutive loss for India. Also read | IPL media rights bidding war crosses $5.3 billion mark, more than double of previous value - Reports Klassen was well supported by skipper Temba Bavuma as he scored 35 off 30 balls and with the match getting closer towards the end, Miller continued his brilliant form with 20 off 15 deliveries. Earlier, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan failed to capitalise on good starts while Anrich Nortje took two wickets as the hosts were restricted to 149/6 in Cuttack. The Indian batsmen failed to score at a steady pace and with Kagiso Rabada bothering them with a strict line and length, they failed to replicate their good start in the previous match in Delhi. Also read | IPL generates more revenue than English Premier League, says Ganguly India kept losing wickets at regular intervals as the pitch provided assistance to the pacers and there were a number of good starts but none of them went on to become big knocks. Dinesh Karthik slammed 30 runs off just 21 balls to take India to a competitive total but it was less around 15-20 runs below the par score. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar heroics in vain as India slump to four-wicket loss against South Africa

It is a story that sounds like the plot of a Hollywood thriller. Imagine this a group of robbers break into a farm, what do they discover? Four million dollars in cash, hidden in the furniture but here's the plot twist this money was actually black money that was stashed there so what does the owner of the farm do he recovers some of the loot and instead pays the robbers to keep quiet and here's a even bigger plot twist- the owner of this farm is South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa.

What is Phala Phala farm robbery scandal? What is South African prez Cyril Ramaphosa's role in it?

The residents of Pietermaritzburg in South Africa were left confused on Wednesday as they saw a long green light in the sky leading to multiple theories on the social media. According to News24, there were reports of a “green asteroid-looking” object falling through the sky around 8 am on Wednesday and the residents took to Facebook to confirm the sightings. Withing a few hours, there were multiple users who reported similar sightings and some of them went on to suggest a “possible alien invasion”. The green light along with the asteroid-like object flashed in the sky for a brief period of time and similar sightings were reported from people in Durban and Johannesburg.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-slams-chinas-destabilising-military-activity-near-taiwan-487110" hreflang="en">US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan</a>

“It was a really strange sighting. I saw this object with lights that were flashing. I told my sister about it and she thought I was crazy. I don’t really believe in aliens or UFOs, but who knows if it is true,” said Maryna Buys on her Facebook account according to the report on News24.

The report also said that Kate Da Cunha Rosario was one of the early users to enquire about the event on Facebook as he posted on the Voices of Pietermaritzburg group - “a bright green asteroid-looking thing flying through the sky at 8:05 am in the Scottsville area”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-like-robots-in-making-slightly-sweaty-robotic-finger-with-living-skin-developed-by-experts-in-japan-486915" hreflang="en">'Slightly sweaty' robotic finger with living skin developed by experts in Japan</a>

The first UFO sighting in South Africa dates back to the 1960s with a number of similar reports coming over the years.

The internet was soon filled with numerous theories with a user called Elna Botha suggesting that it can be an alien invasion. “They have arrived,” she wrote on her Facebook account.

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The residents of Pietermaritzburg in South Africa were left confused on Wednesday as they saw a long green light in the sky leading to multiple theories on the social media.

The residents of Pietermaritzburg in South Africa were left confused on Wednesday as they saw a long green light in the sky leading to multiple theories on the social media. According to News24, there were reports of a “green asteroid-looking” object falling through the sky around 8 am on Wednesday and the residents took to Facebook to confirm the sightings. Withing a few hours, there were multiple users who reported similar sightings and some of them went on to suggest a “possible alien invasion”. The green light along with the asteroid-like object flashed in the sky for a brief period of time and similar sightings were reported from people in Durban and Johannesburg. Also read | US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan “It was a really strange sighting. I saw this object with lights that were flashing. I told my sister about it and she thought I was crazy. I don’t really believe in aliens or UFOs, but who knows if it is true,” said Maryna Buys on her Facebook account according to the report on News24. The report also said that Kate Da Cunha Rosario was one of the early users to enquire about the event on Facebook as he posted on the Voices of Pietermaritzburg group - “a bright green asteroid-looking thing flying through the sky at 8:05 am in the Scottsville area”. Also read | 'Slightly sweaty' robotic finger with living skin developed by experts in Japan The first UFO sighting in South Africa dates back to the 1960s with a number of similar reports coming over the years. The internet was soon filled with numerous theories with a user called Elna Botha suggesting that it can be an alien invasion. “They have arrived,” she wrote on her Facebook account. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Can it be aliens? Mysterious green light in Pietermaritzburg sky sparks rumours

Amid an ongoing probe against Cyril Ramaphosa over a theft scandal, the South African President has suspended the country's top anti-corruption official to pave way for a parliamentary panel to probe her ability to hold office.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa suspends country's public protector Ombudswoman Mkhwebane

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in accordance with section 194 (3)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa&nbsp;suspended advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane from the office of the public protector with immediate effect. 
 
"Section 194(3) (a) of the Constitution provides that the president may suspend the public protector (or any member of a Chapter 9 institution) “at any time after the start of proceedings by a committee of the National Assembly for [their] removal," the statement from the presidency read. 
 
The public protector in South Africa is one of six independent state institutions set up by the country's Constitution to support and defend democracy. 
 
Advocate Mkhwebane will remain suspended until the section 194 process in the National Assembly has been completed, it said. 
 
"President Ramaphosa has fulfilled his obligation to provide Advocate Mkhwebane a fair hearing by according her sufficient time and opportunity to make submissions. In considering each element of the Public Protector’s submissions carefully, the President has taken into account the nature of the Public Protector’s office and his own Constitutional obligations," the statement added. 
 
Section 2A (7) of the public protector act states that whenever the public protector is, for any reason unable to perform the functions of his or her office, or while the appointment of a person to the office of public protector is pending, the deputy public protector shall perform such functions. 
 
The presidency said the absence of advocate Mkhwebane from the office will therefore not impede the progress of any investigations that are pending or underway. 
 
"President Ramaphosa and advocate Mkhwebane are both obligated to act in the best interest of the country, in compliance with the Constitution and mindful of the need to protect all Constitutional institutions. The president’s decision to suspend Advocate Mkhwebane is the best manner to fulfill these obligations," it said. 
 
Meanwhile, Mkhwebane has hit back with tweets, first tweet saying that the battle was the Lord's, and second tweet cautioning, " do not be deflected #glencore and #farmgate aluta continua." 
 
Last month, Mkhwebane outlined her reasons to Ramaphosa on why she should not be suspended pending impeachment proceedings in Parliament. 
 
The suspended Public Protector has previously said that Ramaphosa was the subject of a raft of investigations conducted by her office.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in accordance with section 194 (3)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa suspended advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane from the office of the public protector with immediate effect.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in accordance with section 194 (3)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa suspended advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane from the office of the public protector with immediate effect. "Section 194(3) (a) of the Constitution provides that the president may suspend the public protector (or any member of a Chapter 9 institution) “at any time after the start of proceedings by a committee of the National Assembly for [their] removal," the statement from the presidency read. The public protector in South Africa is one of six independent state institutions set up by the country's Constitution to support and defend democracy. Advocate Mkhwebane will remain suspended until the section 194 process in the National Assembly has been completed, it said. "President Ramaphosa has fulfilled his obligation to provide Advocate Mkhwebane a fair hearing by according her sufficient time and opportunity to make submissions. In considering each element of the Public Protector’s submissions carefully, the President has taken into account the nature of the Public Protector’s office and his own Constitutional obligations," the statement added. Section 2A (7) of the public protector act states that whenever the public protector is, for any reason unable to perform the functions of his or her office, or while the appointment of a person to the office of public protector is pending, the deputy public protector shall perform such functions. The presidency said the absence of advocate Mkhwebane from the office will therefore not impede the progress of any investigations that are pending or underway. "President Ramaphosa and advocate Mkhwebane are both obligated to act in the best interest of the country, in compliance with the Constitution and mindful of the need to protect all Constitutional institutions. The president’s decision to suspend Advocate Mkhwebane is the best manner to fulfill these obligations," it said. Meanwhile, Mkhwebane has hit back with tweets, first tweet saying that the battle was the Lord's, and second tweet cautioning, " do not be deflected #glencore and #farmgate aluta continua." Last month, Mkhwebane outlined her reasons to Ramaphosa on why she should not be suspended pending impeachment proceedings in Parliament. The suspended Public Protector has previously said that Ramaphosa was the subject of a raft of investigations conducted by her office. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South African President Ramaphosa suspends advocate Mkhwebane from public protector's office

South African President has suspended the country's public protector Ombudswoman Mkhwebane on grave charges.

South African public protector in the dock: President suspends Ombudswoman Mkhwebane

Two fugitive brothers Rajesh Gupta and Atul Gupta have been arrested in the United Arab Emirates. The duo is wanted in South Africa where they allegedly orchestrated a web of state corruption.

Gupta brothers wanted in $1.6 million fraud nabbed in UAE

Two fugitive brothers Rajesh Gupta and Atul Gupta have been arrested in the United Arab Emirates. The duo is now wanted in South Africa where they allegedly orchestrated a web of state corruption

Gupta Brothers nabbed in UAE | Duo wanted in $1.6mn fraud

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to testify after being accused of bribing robbers. A case was filed against the President on June 1st.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa set to testify after being accused of bribing robbers

The new rule implemented by Ryanair to put South African through a general knowledge test in Afrikaans has sparked serious allegations of discrimination. The airline is currently conducting the test for every person travelling with a South African passport and it is completely in Afrikaans. However, a lot of people were quick to point out that there were 11 other languages which are popular in South Africa and Afrikaans ranks third. It is also a language that played a controversial role in oppression of black citizens during the notorious apartheid period. There were also some concerns raised about the subject matter of the test as they felt it will not help in identifying a genuine passport holder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-north-koreas-weapons-tests-us-south-korea-launch-eight-ballistic-missiles-485391" hreflang="en">South Korea, US fire eight ballistic missiles after North Korea's weapons test</a>

Zulu and Xhosa are currently the two most popular languages in South Africa.

Ryanair, on the other hand, made it clear that the only purpose of the test is to curb the high number of people who travel on a fake South African passport. A spokesperson for the company said that “due to the high prevalence of fraudulent South African passports, we require passengers travelling to the UK to fill out a simple questionnaire issued in Afrikaans. If they are unable to complete this questionnaire, they will be refused travel and issued with a full refund.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-rebellion-of-54-tory-mps-british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-to-face-confidence-vote-485496">After rebellion of 54 Tory MPs, British PM Johnson to face confidence vote</a>

The decision to conduct the test was taken after South African government said that the manufacturing and selling fake South African passports has gone up in the recent times. But the British government has said that the test is not compulsory.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The new rule implemented by Ryanair to put South African through a general knowledge test in Afrikaans has sparked serious allegations of discrimination. The airline is currently conducting the test for every person travelling with a South African passport and it is completely in Afrikaans.

The new rule implemented by Ryanair to put South African through a general knowledge test in Afrikaans has sparked serious allegations of discrimination. The airline is currently conducting the test for every person travelling with a South African passport and it is completely in Afrikaans. However, a lot of people were quick to point out that there were 11 other languages which are popular in South Africa and Afrikaans ranks third. It is also a language that played a controversial role in oppression of black citizens during the notorious apartheid period. There were also some concerns raised about the subject matter of the test as they felt it will not help in identifying a genuine passport holder. Also read | South Korea, US fire eight ballistic missiles after North Korea's weapons test Zulu and Xhosa are currently the two most popular languages in South Africa. Ryanair, on the other hand, made it clear that the only purpose of the test is to curb the high number of people who travel on a fake South African passport. A spokesperson for the company said that “due to the high prevalence of fraudulent South African passports, we require passengers travelling to the UK to fill out a simple questionnaire issued in Afrikaans. If they are unable to complete this questionnaire, they will be refused travel and issued with a full refund.” Also read | After rebellion of 54 Tory MPs, British PM Johnson to face confidence vote The decision to conduct the test was taken after South African government said that the manufacturing and selling fake South African passports has gone up in the recent times. But the British government has said that the test is not compulsory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Ryanair accused of discrimination for putting South Africans through Afrikaans test

South Africa is facing a severe shortage of doctors and the opposition is hitting out at the ANC government for the same. 21,000 posts for doctors are currently vacant.

South Africa faces a shortage of doctors: Opposition hits out at ANC government

Sleep is something that the inhabitants of Zingqolweni abandoned many months ago.

Tucked in a remote corner of&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa, this frightened&nbsp;village&nbsp;of 3,000 people has suffered a murder almost every month, occurring with clockwork regularity for a year.

The brutal series of killings has earned Zingqolweni a chilling moniker: "The&nbsp;Village&nbsp;of&nbsp;Death."

All 11 victims have been elderly people, most of whom were women and most of whom lived alone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-ramaphosa-wishes-south-africans-on-africa-day-482144">President Ramaphosa wishes South Africans on Africa Day</a>

They have been stabbed to&nbsp;death&nbsp;in their homes after nightfall, when pitch darkness falls over a&nbsp;village&nbsp;where the unpaved roads are unlit.

Nobongile Fihla, 50, spoke to AFP as she walked back from the cemetery.&nbsp;

Her mother was among the first victims, killed in May 2021.

"I found my mother there, next to the door, lying in a pool of blood. Her throat was slit," Fihla told AFP. &nbsp;

Her aunt was then found stabbed to&nbsp;death&nbsp;in the same thatched round hut where the two sisters lived.

No-one saw or heard anything.&nbsp;

The homes, known as rondavels, are far apart from each other in Zingqolweni, a Xhosa-speaking community lying three hours from the nearest large city of East London.

Here the sun sets behind the green mountains of the Eastern Cape province by 6pm (1600 GMT) in the winter months.&nbsp;

Never in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa

South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;is one of the world's most violent countries outside a war zone, with a murder committed every 20 minutes on average.&nbsp;

But even hardened police have been taken aback by the gruesomeness of this killing spree.

All the victims were brutally stabbed. Some also had their throats slit.

Watch |&nbsp;Renewed flooding in South Africa's east, more than 300 people displaced

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"They literally bleed to&nbsp;death," a senior police investigator told AFP.

"A series of murders of elderly people with a psychological motive. No, not seen before in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa," said the investigator, who asked not to be named.

Six men have been arrested over the killings, and their trial is set to begin in June.

Local police believe the murders are simply burglaries that have gone wrong.

But local official Gcinikaya Koki,&nbsp;64, is among those who doubt that thieves are to blame.&nbsp;

"After the killings, when people were searching the house they found the money in the house," he said, adding that other valuables were also untouched.

"Now, you then ask yourself, 'What is it that they want from this person that they killed?'"

The only clue ever found has been a piece of clothing.

Fears of a serial killer on the loose have swept the&nbsp;village. Some have fled and women have started sleeping together at night.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-registers-more-than10000-covid-10-cases-for-first-time-since-january-478694">South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January</a>

Code of silence&nbsp;

A special police unit that investigates serial crimes has visited the area several times.&nbsp;

The murders, the investigator told AFP, share hallmarks that fit the narrative of a lone killer.

In each killing, there is a single modus operandi; the murders occur regularly at the start of each month; and there is no evidence of a criminal motive.

The murderer must be young and strong enough to overpower his victims, according to this scenario.&nbsp;And given the remoteness of the&nbsp;village, he probably lives nearby, and possibly harbours a hatred of the elderly.

"The person must have known the people living there and who was living alone," the investigator said.

Husking maize on a stool in front of her home, 82-year-old Nontukunina Mbenyana says she is afraid but she will not leave.

"If they come for me, I am prepared," she said. "I will die in my own house."

Authorities had for months kept silent on the killings, so vigilantes stepped in.

Seven suspects, all men aged 21 to 27, were found dead. Some were burned alive, others hanged in the nearby forests.

Twelve men have been arrested, but then released for lack of evidence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rescued-turtle-hatchlings-excrete-plastic-in-south-african-aquarium-477851">Rescued turtle hatchlings excrete plastic in South African aquarium </a>&nbsp;

So the investigation continues, amid a code of silence in the&nbsp;village.

"Nothing happened here," a man climbing into his pickup told AFP.

Lately, the grisly crimes have halted, deepening the mystery.

Increased police patrols and media attention may have deterred the murders "for a while," the investigator said.

"We sometimes see that serial murderers who begin to be uncovered move away. We might come across him again somewhere else..."

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Sleep is something that the inhabitants of Zingqolweni abandoned many months ago. Tucked in a remote corner of South Africa, this frightened village of 3,000 people has suffered a murder almost every month, occurring with clockwork regularity for a year.

Sleep is something that the inhabitants of Zingqolweni abandoned many months ago. Tucked in a remote corner of South Africa, this frightened village of 3,000 people has suffered a murder almost every month, occurring with clockwork regularity for a year. The brutal series of killings has earned Zingqolweni a chilling moniker: "The Village of Death." All 11 victims have been elderly people, most of whom were women and most of whom lived alone. Also read | President Ramaphosa wishes South Africans on Africa Day They have been stabbed to death in their homes after nightfall, when pitch darkness falls over a village where the unpaved roads are unlit. Nobongile Fihla, 50, spoke to AFP as she walked back from the cemetery. Her mother was among the first victims, killed in May 2021. "I found my mother there, next to the door, lying in a pool of blood. Her throat was slit," Fihla told AFP. Her aunt was then found stabbed to death in the same thatched round hut where the two sisters lived. No-one saw or heard anything. The homes, known as rondavels, are far apart from each other in Zingqolweni, a Xhosa-speaking community lying three hours from the nearest large city of East London. Here the sun sets behind the green mountains of the Eastern Cape province by 6pm (1600 GMT) in the winter months. Never in South Africa South Africa is one of the world's most violent countries outside a war zone, with a murder committed every 20 minutes on average. But even hardened police have been taken aback by the gruesomeness of this killing spree. All the victims were brutally stabbed. Some also had their throats slit. Watch | Renewed flooding in South Africa's east, more than 300 people displaced "They literally bleed to death," a senior police investigator told AFP. "A series of murders of elderly people with a psychological motive. No, not seen before in South Africa," said the investigator, who asked not to be named. Six men have been arrested over the killings, and their trial is set to begin in June. Local police believe the murders are simply burglaries that have gone wrong. But local official Gcinikaya Koki, 64, is among those who doubt that thieves are to blame. "After the killings, when people were searching the house they found the money in the house," he said, adding that other valuables were also untouched. "Now, you then ask yourself, 'What is it that they want from this person that they killed?'" The only clue ever found has been a piece of clothing. Fears of a serial killer on the loose have swept the village. Some have fled and women have started sleeping together at night. Also read | South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January Code of silence A special police unit that investigates serial crimes has visited the area several times. The murders, the investigator told AFP, share hallmarks that fit the narrative of a lone killer. In each killing, there is a single modus operandi; the murders occur regularly at the start of each month; and there is no evidence of a criminal motive. The murderer must be young and strong enough to overpower his victims, according to this scenario. And given the remoteness of the village, he probably lives nearby, and possibly harbours a hatred of the elderly. "The person must have known the people living there and who was living alone," the investigator said. Husking maize on a stool in front of her home, 82-year-old Nontukunina Mbenyana says she is afraid but she will not leave. "If they come for me, I am prepared," she said. "I will die in my own house." Authorities had for months kept silent on the killings, so vigilantes stepped in. Seven suspects, all men aged 21 to 27, were found dead. Some were burned alive, others hanged in the nearby forests. Twelve men have been arrested, but then released for lack of evidence. Also read | Rescued turtle hatchlings excrete plastic in South African aquarium So the investigation continues, amid a code of silence in the village. "Nothing happened here," a man climbing into his pickup told AFP. Lately, the grisly crimes have halted, deepening the mystery. Increased police patrols and media attention may have deterred the murders "for a while," the investigator said. "We sometimes see that serial murderers who begin to be uncovered move away. We might come across him again somewhere else..." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sleepless nights in South Africa's 'Village of Death'

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africans well on Africa Day and has called for unity among the nations of the continent. 
 
Africa Day commemorates the founding in 1963 of the Organisation of African Unity, the forerunner to the African Union. 
 
“For us as South Africans, this day assumes the same significance as all the national days we observe in democratic South Africa&nbsp;because our freedom would not have been possible without the support and moral courage of the people of Africa and their leaders,” Ramaphosa said. 
 
The tensions between South Africans and nationals of other African countries has been a troubling reminder that the divisions fomented by successive colonial and apartheid administrations had not yet been fully eradicated, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/africa-must-be-included-in-reformed-unsc-says-eam-jaishankar-479915">Also Read:&nbsp;</a><a href="http://13.235.153.162/india/africa-must-be-included-in-reformed-unsc-says-eam-jaishankar-479915" hreflang="en">Africa must be included in reformed UNSC, says EAM Jaishankar</a> 
 
“As we address the critical issue of illegal immigration, as is our right as a sovereign nation, let us never become like the former oppressors, who sought to divide the African people and turn us against each other,” Ramaphosa said adding that 
Africa Day is an opportunity for South Africans to learn more about the role of other African countries in our freedom struggle, and that this was particularly important for the younger generation. 
 
The President also called on community and civil society groups supported by the South African Human Rights Commission to initiate dialogues and programmes that bring communities together and foster tolerance. 
 
“Our brothers and sisters from elsewhere in Africa are not our enemies. Our common enemies are the scourges of poverty, crime, unemployment and social exclusion. We need to work together to defeat them, and not turn on each other as Africans,” he said.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africans well on Africa Day and has called for unity among the nations of the continent. Africa Day commemorates the founding in 1963 of the Organisation of African Unity, the forerunner to the African Union.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africans well on Africa Day and has called for unity among the nations of the continent. Africa Day commemorates the founding in 1963 of the Organisation of African Unity, the forerunner to the African Union. “For us as South Africans, this day assumes the same significance as all the national days we observe in democratic South Africa because our freedom would not have been possible without the support and moral courage of the people of Africa and their leaders,” Ramaphosa said. The tensions between South Africans and nationals of other African countries has been a troubling reminder that the divisions fomented by successive colonial and apartheid administrations had not yet been fully eradicated, he added. Also Read: Africa must be included in reformed UNSC, says EAM Jaishankar “As we address the critical issue of illegal immigration, as is our right as a sovereign nation, let us never become like the former oppressors, who sought to divide the African people and turn us against each other,” Ramaphosa said adding that Africa Day is an opportunity for South Africans to learn more about the role of other African countries in our freedom struggle, and that this was particularly important for the younger generation. The President also called on community and civil society groups supported by the South African Human Rights Commission to initiate dialogues and programmes that bring communities together and foster tolerance. “Our brothers and sisters from elsewhere in Africa are not our enemies. Our common enemies are the scourges of poverty, crime, unemployment and social exclusion. We need to work together to defeat them, and not turn on each other as Africans,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

President Ramaphosa wishes South Africans on Africa Day

In South Africa's Kwazulu-Natal province, more than 300 people were evacuated from their homes following severe floods and heavy rains. This comes only weeks after floods claimed more than 400 lives and displaced some 40,000 people in the same province in Eastern South Africa

Renewed flooding in South Africa's east, more than 300 people displaced

In the latest racist attack in South African University, a student urinated in a Black student's room sparking unrest. Students are now demanding an enquiry and assault has sparked protests.

Racist attack in South African University: Urine assault sparks protest

In the latest racist attack in South African University, a student urinated in a Black student's room sparking unrest. Students are now demanding an enquiry.

Racist attack in South African University: Student urinates in Black student's room

South Africa is witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases driven by BA.4 & BA.5 variants. The sudden surge has triggered fears of a fifth COVID wave.

South Africa might face the fifth COVID wave as cases surge driven by BA.4 & BA.5

Many seniors including captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are all set to be rested for the upcoming five-match T20 series against South Africa, with an eye on the marquee tour of England in July.

Besides, the national selection committee is also set to excuse Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant from the engagements against the Proteas.

It is understood that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has impressed one and all with his captaincy for Gujarat Titans in IPL-15, are in reckoning for the leadership role for both South Africa and the short two-match T20I series against Ireland.

The T20 rubber against the Proteas will start in the national capital on June 9 with the remaining matches being held at Cuttack, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ambati-rayudu-not-retiring-from-ipl-says-csk-ceo-after-star-batter-deletes-retirement-tweet-478850" hreflang="en">Rayudu not retiring from IPL, says CSK CEO after he deletes retirement tweet</a>

The squad for the SA series is likely to be selected on May 22 -- the last day of the league phase of this edition of IPL -- in Mumbai.

The PTI has already reported that an out-of-form Virat Kohli will also be given a much-needed break but it is understood that for the selectors as well as the BCCI, the tour of England starting early July is paramount.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-hails-rcb-cricketer-as-one-of-our-leading-bowlers-at-the-death-478938" hreflang="en">Tendulkar hails RCB cricketer as 'one of our leading bowlers at the death’</a>

"All the senior India players will get at least three and half weeks of complete rest. Rohit, Virat, KL, Rishabh and Jasprit will all directly go to England for the 'fifth Test' following the white-ball series. We need all our key players to remain fresh for the England series," a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

As a part of workload management, all the senior all-format players will not be part of the next seven T20 Internationals.

Asked about captaincy, the source said: "The selectors have a couple of choices. Shikhar Dhawan, as he has already captained India in absence of Virat, Rohit and Rahul during last year's Sri Lanka series.

But Hardik Pandya's impressive captaincy for Gujarat Titans hasn't gone unnoticed. So it will be a close call," he added.

Mohsin Khan could pip Umran Malik in SA squad 
 
While Umran Malik has generated considerable excitement with his 150 kmph plus pace, there is a feeling that he is too raw and time with the India A team could help him develop better.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-cool-calm-and-collected-brad-hogg-picks-new-ipl-captain-who-has-traits-like-ms-dhoni-478942" hreflang="en">'He is calm &amp; collected': Hogg picks new IPL captain who has Dhoni's traits</a>

While he remains in the mix with death overs specialist Arshdeep Singh, the man who is emerging as a 'Dark Horse' is Lucknow Super Giants' left-armer Mohsin Khan.

"Our pace bowling department is set and selectors might not experiment too much," he said.

"But yes, Mohsin has impressed almost everyone with his pace, bounce and swing in this edition. He does have a chance. Having said that, not ruling out Umran or Arshdeep either, but Mohsin might just be slightly ahead," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-batsman-in-history-to-claim-massive-ipl-milestone-478908" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli becomes first batsman in history to claim massive IPL milestone</a>

It is understood that most of the players who recently played in the T20 series against Sri Lanka and the West Indies are set to be retained irrespective of their current IPL form.

Obviously Suryakumar Yadav or Ravindra Jadeja's injury needs to be factored in and Deepak Chahar will also not be available.

The likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda along with Dhawan and Hardik are set to form the core of the batting unit. Sanju Samson could also be retained and there could be at the max one left field selection in the squad.

In the pace bowling unit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan are all certainties, along with the IPL's stellar spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal. Kuldeep Yadav is also expected to make the cut.

Many seniors including captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are all set to be rested for the upcoming five-match T20 series against South Africa, with an eye on the marquee tour of England in July.

Many seniors including captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are all set to be rested for the upcoming five-match T20 series against South Africa, with an eye on the marquee tour of England in July. Besides, the national selection committee is also set to excuse Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant from the engagements against the Proteas. It is understood that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has impressed one and all with his captaincy for Gujarat Titans in IPL-15, are in reckoning for the leadership role for both South Africa and the short two-match T20I series against Ireland. The T20 rubber against the Proteas will start in the national capital on June 9 with the remaining matches being held at Cuttack, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively. Also read | Rayudu not retiring from IPL, says CSK CEO after he deletes retirement tweet The squad for the SA series is likely to be selected on May 22 -- the last day of the league phase of this edition of IPL -- in Mumbai. The PTI has already reported that an out-of-form Virat Kohli will also be given a much-needed break but it is understood that for the selectors as well as the BCCI, the tour of England starting early July is paramount. Also read | Tendulkar hails RCB cricketer as 'one of our leading bowlers at the death’ "All the senior India players will get at least three and half weeks of complete rest. Rohit, Virat, KL, Rishabh and Jasprit will all directly go to England for the 'fifth Test' following the white-ball series. We need all our key players to remain fresh for the England series," a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity. As a part of workload management, all the senior all-format players will not be part of the next seven T20 Internationals. Asked about captaincy, the source said: "The selectors have a couple of choices. Shikhar Dhawan, as he has already captained India in absence of Virat, Rohit and Rahul during last year's Sri Lanka series. But Hardik Pandya's impressive captaincy for Gujarat Titans hasn't gone unnoticed. So it will be a close call," he added. Mohsin Khan could pip Umran Malik in SA squad While Umran Malik has generated considerable excitement with his 150 kmph plus pace, there is a feeling that he is too raw and time with the India A team could help him develop better. Also read | 'He is calm & collected': Hogg picks new IPL captain who has Dhoni's traits While he remains in the mix with death overs specialist Arshdeep Singh, the man who is emerging as a 'Dark Horse' is Lucknow Super Giants' left-armer Mohsin Khan. "Our pace bowling department is set and selectors might not experiment too much," he said. "But yes, Mohsin has impressed almost everyone with his pace, bounce and swing in this edition. He does have a chance. Having said that, not ruling out Umran or Arshdeep either, but Mohsin might just be slightly ahead," he added. Also read | Virat Kohli becomes first batsman in history to claim massive IPL milestone It is understood that most of the players who recently played in the T20 series against Sri Lanka and the West Indies are set to be retained irrespective of their current IPL form. Obviously Suryakumar Yadav or Ravindra Jadeja's injury needs to be factored in and Deepak Chahar will also not be available. The likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda along with Dhawan and Hardik are set to form the core of the batting unit. Sanju Samson could also be retained and there could be at the max one left field selection in the squad. In the pace bowling unit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prasidh Krishna, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan are all certainties, along with the IPL's stellar spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal. Kuldeep Yadav is also expected to make the cut.

Hardik Pandya or Shikhar Dhawan likely to lead India in T20I series against South Africa

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave.

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With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year.

During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave.

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According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy.

Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year.

The COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again and the worrying signs are clear in South Africa. The nation suffered a lot during the Omicron outbreak with huge number of cases and this week, South Africa reported around 10,000 new infections – the first time since January this year. According to the data provided by South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Wednesday, 10,107 cases were reported with most of them showing signs of the Omicron sub-variants. Some experts believe that this can be the indication of the COVID-19 fifth wave. Also read | Twitter deal temporarily on hold, says Elon Musk With the world suffering from a surge in cases due to the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of COVID-19, South Africa can be headed towards a fifth wave of infections. The last time that South Africa recorded 10,000 daily cases was in the middle of the fourth wave earlier this year. During the fourth wave, South Africa had the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Africa, and it was predicted by WHO that they can be the first country in Africa to witness the fifth wave. Also read | UAE President and ruler Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan passes away According to Reuters, the vaccination rate in South Africa has also been quite average with just 45 per cent of the total population getting completely vaccinated. Even the first dose was administered on just 50 percent of the entire population due to shortages and patient reluctancy. Earlier, it was reported that South Africa’s positivity rate is around 30 per cent at the moment – a level reminiscent of the fourth wave. According to a Bloomberg report, the highest positivity rate in South Africa remains 34.9 per cent which was recorded on December 14, 2021 in the middle of one of the worst phases in the country’s battle with COVID-19.

South Africa registers more than 10,000 COVID-19 cases for first time since January

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