Author: Rethabile Nyelele

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy officially opened nominations for qualified and experienced professionals seeking appointment to the National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR). The call, made under section 13 (1A) of the National Land Transport Amendment Act, Act 23 of 2023, seeks individuals who can contribute to strengthening oversight and governance in the public transport sector. The minister may appoint successful candidates on either a full-time or part-time basis for terms not exceeding five years. Understanding the NPTR’s Role The NPTR, established through the National Land Transport Act of 2009, plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s transport framework. Its mandate…

South Africa last hosted a Formula 1 Grand Prix in 1993 at Kyalami. Now, efforts are underway to bring the sport back potentially as early as 2027 or 2028 by upgrading the Kyalami circuit to FIA Grade 1 status. The necessary enhancements are feasible within a three-month timeframe once initiated, with costs estimated between R90 million and R180 million, fully funded by the circuit owner. In parallel, Sports, Arts, and Culture authorities have established a bid committee to steer the process. However, experts caution that government engagement at an executive level, such as entering into formal agreements or making deposits,…

Volkswagen is breathing new life into one of its most iconic models with the unveiling of the all-electric Polo, a compact hatchback designed to strengthen its position in Europe’s mass market as competition from Chinese automakers intensifies. The German manufacturer introduced a camouflaged version of the ID. Polo on Wednesday, with sales expected to begin next year. The EV will carry a price tag of under €25,000 (about R516,000), aiming to make electric mobility more accessible to mainstream buyers. Unlike previous VW electric models that used numerical ID names, the Polo badge is being revived for its familiarity and legacy.…

Bafana Bafana are just 90 minutes away from history, as they prepare to take on Nigeria in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday evening. Hugo Broos’ side sit five points clear at the top of Group C. The victory against the Super Eagles would leave them within touching distance of sealing a spot on football’s biggest stage. If South Africa claim all three points and Benin fail to beat Lesotho later on the same night, qualification could be mathematically confirmed. For now, the focus remains firmly on beating their biggest…

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has raised concerns over Orlando Pirates’ heavy reliance on individual players. He emphasised that Pirates relied on Relebohile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule to secure results this season. The Buccaneers endured a difficult start to their Betway Premiership campaign, suffering back-to-back defeats. However, they have since bounced back with three straight league victories. They also booked their place in the MTN8 final after knocking out defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Despite this resurgence, Khanye insists that Pirates’ title credentials remain questionable unless they show more consistency and reduce their dependence on individual brilliance. “Pirates rely too…

Mamelodi Sundowns have been dealt a major blow with the confirmed departure of Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa, who has officially parted ways with the club after months of speculation about his future. A Sudden End to a Glittering Spell Ribeiro had not featured for the Brazilians this season, having already pushed for a move away and reportedly attracted interest from Qatar SC and Brazilian giants Fluminense. His last competitive outing came during the FIFA Club World Cup in June, before contractual disputes led him to approach FIFA’s Tribunal in an effort to cut ties with the Tshwane giants. On…

Bafana Bafana are on the verge of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Tuesday night’s clash against Nigeria at the Free State Stadium (kick-off 18:00) could be the decisive moment. South Africa top Group C with 16 points, three clear of Benin and six ahead of the Super Eagles. Victory will end Nigeria’s chances of topping the group, while even a draw keeps Hugo Broos’ men in pole position. With the stakes high, Broos’ likely starting XI has the perfect mix of experience, youth, and energy to topple the West African giants. Bafana Bafana’s Starting XI That Could…

After a humbling defeat to the All Blacks at Eden Park, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made sweeping changes to his side for Saturday’s Rugby Championship rematch in Wellington. The revamped team aims to restore pride, reclaim the Freedom Cup, and defend the Rugby Championship title they lifted last year. Fresh Faces in the Backline Erasmus has introduced a significantly altered backline following Saturday’s disappointing performance. Rewarding impact substitutes from the previous match, the Springboks will feature a new halfback pairing of Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. In midfield, Canan Moodie earns a call-up alongside Damian Willemse, forming an unexpected…

South African motorists may face another financial blow in October as early indicators show petrol prices are heading for an increase, while diesel users could see some relief. At the start of September, data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) revealed that petrol is experiencing a notable under-recovery, leaving it vulnerable to price hikes next month. Current projections point to an under-recovery of between 19 and 26 cents per litre for petrol. Diesel, on the other hand, is showing an over-recovery of around 22 cents per litre, suggesting a possible price drop. Petrol Under Pressure The weakness in petrol recoveries…

The family of slain e-hailing driver Mthokozisi Mvelase is demanding accountability, saying they have lost all trust in South Africa’s law enforcement system following his brutal murder outside Maponya Mall. Unknown assailants torched the vehicle of 27-year-old Mvelase, who was new to the e-hailing industry, at the beginning of August, killing him and injuring two others. Financial constraints delayed the family’s funeral for weeks, deepening their grief. Family Frustration with Investigations Speaking at his funeral over the weekend, Lucky Mvelase, a family relative, expressed outrage at the lack of progress in the investigation. “There are cameras near where Mthokozisi was…