President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed SIU head Andy Mothibi as NDPP from 1 Feb 2026, prompting debate over the process and expectations for the NPA’s future. President Cyril Ramaphosa has chosen Jan Lekgoa “Andy” Mothibi to lead South Africa ’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), sidelining a shortlist of six candidates interviewed by an advisory panel. A statement from the Presidency on 6 January 2026 said the panel, chaired by Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, concluded that none of the interviewees were suitable, prompting Ramaphosa to exercise his constitutional discretion to appoint the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) boss effective 1 February 2026. Mothibi’s appointment follows an open selection process but has drawn both praise and criticism because he was not subjected to the public interviews as reported by Eye witness News . Why it matters The NPA has faced leadership turbulence and waning public confidence since the state‑capture era. Ramaphosa’s decision to call in Mothibi signals an attempt to reset the prosecuting authority and improve its capacity to combat corruption. The SIU under Mothibi has pursued major procurement‑fraud cases and recovered billions of rand for the state, suggesting he could replicate that drive at the NPA. However, the unusual manner of his appointment has raised questions about transparency and may affect perceptions of independence. The appointment process Advisory panel: A seven‑member panel chaired by Kubayi, including heads of several constitutional commissions, interviewed six candidates from 32 applicants. In its report to the president on 12 December 2025 , it advised that none were suitable. This left Ramaphosa free, under the Constitution and the NPA Act, to appoint someone of his choice. Constitutional discretion: After receiving the panel’s report, Ramaphosa invoked section 179 of the Constitution to appoint Mothibi. The Presidency acknowledged that the decision diverged from the shortlist but argued that the Constitution allows the president to act when a panel does not recommend a candidate. Succession at the SIU: Because Mothibi will vacate his SIU post, the president appointed Leonard Lekgetho , the unit’s chief operations officer, to serve as acting head from 1 February 2026. Lekgetho has more than 22 years’ forensic‑investigation experience. As SIU head, Mothibi oversaw the Tembisa Hospital corruption probe, where investigators identified seven syndicates that siphoned more than R2 billion from the hospital’s procurement budget. The SIU secured preservation orders against luxury properties and vehicles and is pursuing civil recovery proceedings; Mothibi vowed to “claw back every cent” taken from the public purse. Business Day noted that the SIU’s work at Tembisa led to asset preservations and referrals to prosecutors. These achievements underpin perceptions of Mothibi as a determined anti‑corruption investigator. What lies ahead Mothibi will succeed Shamila Batohi , who was appointed as South Africa’s first female NDPP in 2019 and reaches the mandatory retirement age of 65 this month. Batohi’s tenure was marked by resource shortages and slow progress on state‑capture prosecutions . As NDPP, Mothibi will be tasked with turning the SIU’s investigatory successes into courtroom results, ensuring timely prosecutions and rebuilding trust in the NPA. He must also work with Parliament to fill deputy NDPP posts and strengthen internal governance. Continue Reading Full Article POLITICAL PARTIES Ramaphosa appoints Andy Mothibi as new head of South Africa’s NPA By Sebastiane Ebatamehi Pan-African Analyst & Content Strategist Sebastiane Ebatamehi Home Comment Jan 7, 2026 May 15, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: President Cyril Ramaphosa has chosen Jan Lekgoa “Andy” Mothibi to lead South Africa ’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), sidelining a shortlist of six candidates interviewed by an advisory panel. A statement from the Presidency on 6 January 2026 said the panel, chaired by Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, concluded that none of the interviewees were suitable, prompting Ramaphosa to exercise his constitutional discretion to appoint the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) boss effective 1 February 2026. Mothibi’s appointment follows an open selection process but has drawn both praise and criticism because he was not subjected to the public interviews as reported by Eye witness News . Why it matters The NPA has faced leadership turbulence and waning public confidence since the state‑capture era. Ramaphosa’s decision to call in Mothibi signals an attempt to reset the prosecuting authority and improve its capacity to combat corruption. The SIU under Mothibi has pursued major procurement‑fraud cases and recovered billions of rand for the state, suggesting he could replicate that drive at the NPA. However, the unusual manner of his appointment has raised questions about transparency and may affect perceptions of independence. The appointment process Advisory panel: A seven‑member panel chaired by Kubayi, including heads of several constitutional commissions, interviewed six candidates from 32 applicants. In its report to the president on 12 December 2025 , it advised that none were suitable. This left Ramaphosa free, under the Constitution and the NPA Act, to appoint someone of his choice. ADVERTISEMENT Constitutional discretion: After receiving the panel’s report, Ramaphosa invoked section 179 of the Constitution to appoint Mothibi. The Presidency acknowledged that the decision diverged from the shortlist but argued that the Constitution allows the president to act when a panel does not recommend a candidate. Succession at the SIU: Because Mothibi will vacate his SIU post, the president appointed Leonard Lekgetho , the unit’s chief operations officer, to serve as acting head from 1 February 2026. Lekgetho has more than 22 years’ forensic‑investigation experience. As SIU head, Mothibi oversaw the Tembisa Hospital corruption probe, where investigators identified seven syndicates that siphoned more than R2 billion from the hospital’s procurement budget. The SIU secured preservation orders against luxury properties and vehicles and is pursuing civil recovery proceedings; Mothibi vowed to “claw back every cent” taken from the public purse. Business Day noted that the SIU’s work at Tembisa led to asset preservations and referrals to prosecutors. These achievements underpin perceptions of Mothibi as a determined anti‑corruption investigator. ADVERTISEMENT What lies ahead Mothibi will succeed Shamila Batohi , who was appointed as South Africa’s first female NDPP in 2019 and reaches the mandatory retirement age of 65 this month. Batohi’s tenure was marked by resource shortages and slow progress on state‑capture prosecutions . As NDPP, Mothibi will be tasked with turning the SIU’s investigatory successes into courtroom results, ensuring timely prosecutions and rebuilding trust in the NPA. He must also work with Parliament to fill deputy NDPP posts and strengthen internal governance. Observers agree that his appointment gives the NPA a leader with forensic‑investigation expertise, but they caution that restoring prosecutorial independence will require more than one appointment. The true test will be whether Mothibi can pursue high‑profile cases without fear or favour while navigating political scrutiny. As CASAC’s Naidoo noted, “given his experience, [Mothibi] should be able to adapt and to lead the NPA successfully”. Source: EyeWitness News Trending Now US and Egypt Sign First $125m Mutual Prosperity Deal . Diplomacy UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve . Industry Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark . Technology and Innovation Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . Business Trends Popular Today SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide . Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online . Local Government How to Replace a Lost South African ID . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles SASSA Payment Dates SASSA Change Banking Details Link: Official Guide Use the official SASSA link to change your SRD banking details safely. Follow the steps and avoid . Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return Use the official SARS checker and 2026 rules to see if you must file an ITR12. . Tax and Revenue How to Book a SARS Appointment Online Book a SARS branch, video or phone slot on eBooking, MobiApp, SMS or 0800 00 7277. . Social Service How to Check UIF Claim Status Online Use UIF Online, free USSD *134*843#, or call 0800 030 007 to track your claim. . Tags South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa EyeWitness News EyeWitness News Politics Politics

Simba SC showcased their dominance with a resounding 6-0 victory over Jwaneng Galaxy, securing their spot in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarterfinals. This marks Tanzania's consecutive entry into the knockout stages, and they aim to leave a lasting impact this season. Goals from Ntibazonkiza, Jobe, Denis, Chama, Chasami, and Ngoma sealed their triumph, as Simba also defeated Wydad AC 1-0. Despite Asec Mimosas topping Group B with 12 points, Simba's impressive 9-point performance secured their advancement, leaving Wydad and Galaxy eliminated from the competition . Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 2, 2024 May 15, 2026 1 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The first match of the champions league and scored a goal. Photo provided by Simba Facebook page Simba SC showcased their dominance with a resounding 6-0 victory over Jwaneng Galaxy, securing their spot in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarterfinals. This marks Tanzania's consecutive entry into the knockout stages, and they aim to leave a lasting impact this season. Goals from Ntibazonkiza, Jobe, Denis, Chama, Chasami, and Ngoma sealed their triumph, as Simba also defeated Wydad AC 1-0. Despite Asec Mimosas topping Group B with 12 points, Simba's impressive 9-point performance secured their advancement, leaving Wydad and Galaxy eliminated from the competition . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US and Egypt Sign First $125m Mutual Prosperity Deal . Diplomacy UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve . Industry Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark . Technology and Innovation Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . Business Trends Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Listen to DJ Mushizo songs, MP3 downloads, lyrics, and latest Singeli hits from the Tanzanian music artist. DJ Mushizo Tanzanian Singeli DJ and Producer TZA Singeli DJ Mushizo s' Top Xtrafrica Songs Mwanetu DJ Mushizo .

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As the UK government intensifies efforts to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda, a contrasting narrative unfolds in Australia where a group of Rwandan nationals has sought asylum after a harrowing journey. The five men embarked on an unconventional trip that began by securing visas upon arrival in Jakarta, Indonesia. They then traversed the vast distance to Papua province, crossed into Papua New Guinea (PNG), and ultimately reached Australia’s remote Saibai Island by dinghy. Saibai Island, a mere 4km from PNG’s mainland, is a focal point for traditional activities between Indigenous Australians and PNG nationals, who navigate the waters freely. However, such cross-border movement is usually limited to locals, making the arrival of the Rwandans a rare and conspicuous event. They were discovered by local hunters in a mangrove swamp, a known crocodile habitat. Details of the asylum claims made by the Rwandans remain undisclosed, and their fate hangs in balance. Without PNG's consent to accept them back under conditions that prevent persecution, they risk being sent to Australia's controversial offshore detention center in Nauru. This facility is part of a contentious policy that Australia once championed and the UK is now considering for its own use, despite widespread criticism. The UK Home Office is pursuing a similar strategy, proposing to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. Yet, an impact assessment from the department admits the plan’s novelty and untested nature, leaving its potential effectiveness in doubt. Critics, including Jana Favero of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre in Melbourne, denounce the policy as inhumane, pointing to the irony of Rwandans fleeing to Australia even as the UK seeks to send asylum seekers in the opposite direction. Australia’s implementation of offshore processing has been fraught with issues. The practice, which has cost over A$10 billion and resulted in multiple deaths due to various causes including violence and medical neglect, has been repeatedly condemned by international bodies as a violation of human rights standards. The policy's efficacy is also debated; initial years saw a surge in arrivals, contradicting the intended deterrent effect. Madeline Gleeson, a senior research fellow at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, argues that the Australian model, which the UK aims to replicate, has proven ineffective. She emphasizes the necessity for individualized risk assessments and efficient asylum processing systems to truly address the needs of those seeking refuge. As discussions continue, the international community watches closely. The situation of the Rwandans in Australia serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing global refugee crisis and the complex interplay of policies intended to manage it . Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 11, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The five men were found on Saibai Island (pictured), which is four kilometres from the Papua New Guinea mainland As the UK government intensifies efforts to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda, a contrasting narrative unfolds in Australia where a group of Rwandan nationals has sought asylum after a harrowing journey. The five men embarked on an unconventional trip that began by securing visas upon arrival in Jakarta, Indonesia. They then traversed the vast distance to Papua province, crossed into Papua New Guinea (PNG), and ultimately reached Australia’s remote Saibai Island by dinghy. Saibai Island, a mere 4km from PNG’s mainland, is a focal point for traditional activities between Indigenous Australians and PNG nationals, who navigate the waters freely. However, such cross-border movement is usually limited to locals, making the arrival of the Rwandans a rare and conspicuous event. They were discovered by local hunters in a mangrove swamp, a known crocodile habitat. Details of the asylum claims made by the Rwandans remain undisclosed, and their fate hangs in balance. Without PNG's consent to accept them back under conditions that prevent persecution, they risk being sent to Australia's controversial offshore detention center in Nauru. This facility is part of a contentious policy that Australia once championed and the UK is now considering for its own use, despite widespread criticism. ADVERTISEMENT The UK Home Office is pursuing a similar strategy, proposing to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. Yet, an impact assessment from the department admits the plan’s novelty and untested nature, leaving its potential effectiveness in doubt. Critics, including Jana Favero of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre in Melbourne, denounce the policy as inhumane, pointing to the irony of Rwandans fleeing to Australia even as the UK seeks to send asylum seekers in the opposite direction. Australia’s implementation of offshore processing has been fraught with issues. The practice, which has cost over A$10 billion and resulted in multiple deaths due to various causes including violence and medical neglect, has been repeatedly condemned by international bodies as a violation of human rights standards. The policy's efficacy is also debated; initial years saw a surge in arrivals, contradicting the intended deterrent effect. ADVERTISEMENT Madeline Gleeson, a senior research fellow at the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, argues that the Australian model, which the UK aims to replicate, has proven ineffective. She emphasizes the necessity for individualized risk assessments and efficient asylum processing systems to truly address the needs of those seeking refuge. As discussions continue, the international community watches closely. The situation of the Rwandans in Australia serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing global refugee crisis and the complex interplay of policies intended to manage it . Trending Now US and Egypt Sign First $125m Mutual Prosperity Deal . Diplomacy UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve . Industry Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark . Technology and Innovation Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . Business Trends Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

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In Burkina Faso, the ruling military junta has been conscripting its critics, including prominent figures like Arouna Loure, a vocal opponent who was forcibly enlisted into military service. Loure, an anesthesiologist, received a conscription order in September last year. Shortly after, he was abducted from his hospital by armed men and taken to a military camp near Kaya, where he was held for three months. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have reported numerous similar cases, accusing the junta of kidnapping and conscripting dissenters. Despite these allegations, the junta has not publicly responded. Since March 2023, at least 19 such abductions have been verified by Reuters through interviews and public statements. The conscriptions appear to be part of junta leader Ibrahim Traore's strategy to suppress criticism since he seized power in a 2022 coup. Victims have described their conscription as arbitrary and punitive, often involving torture and forced military service. Some, including Loure, were later seen in military uniforms in social media posts. In addition to conscription, the junta has also been accused of extrajudicial killings and other human rights abuses, contributing to an ongoing climate of fear and repression in the country. Despite the junta's efforts, Burkina Faso continues to struggle with security issues and insurgent violence, leading to widespread civilian casualties. By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jul 2, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: In Burkina Faso, the ruling military junta has been conscripting its critics, including prominent figures like Arouna Loure, a vocal opponent who was forcibly enlisted into military service. Loure, an anesthesiologist, received a conscription order in September last year. Shortly after, he was abducted from his hospital by armed men and taken to a military camp near Kaya, where he was held for three months. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have reported numerous similar cases, accusing the junta of kidnapping and conscripting dissenters. Despite these allegations, the junta has not publicly responded. Since March 2023, at least 19 such abductions have been verified by Reuters through interviews and public statements. ADVERTISEMENT The conscriptions appear to be part of junta leader Ibrahim Traore's strategy to suppress criticism since he seized power in a 2022 coup. Victims have described their conscription as arbitrary and punitive, often involving torture and forced military service. Some, including Loure, were later seen in military uniforms in social media posts. In addition to conscription, the junta has also been accused of extrajudicial killings and other human rights abuses, contributing to an ongoing climate of fear and repression in the country. Despite the junta's efforts, Burkina Faso continues to struggle with security issues and insurgent violence, leading to widespread civilian casualties. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US and Egypt Sign First $125m Mutual Prosperity Deal . Diplomacy UDC Breaks Ground on Shs29bn Packaging Plant at Namanve . Industry Mauritius, South Africa, Nigeria Clear Youth AI Benchmark . Technology and Innovation Lwazi Bam Named to MTN Nigeria Board From 1 December . Business Trends Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags