President Ramaphosa promises to “move fast and fix things”
President Cyril Ramaphosa used his 2026 State of the Nation Address to pledge swift action on economic and service delivery challenges as the country heads into an election year. He promised to “move fast and fix things”, emphasising job creation and tackling corruption to rebuild public confidence. Ramaphosa also announced the deployment of SANDF soldiers to the Western Cape and Gauteng, to combat gangs and illegal mining.
Ministers miss the SONA because of water crisis
President Cyril Ramaphosa instructed Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, and Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, to travel to Johannesburg to resolve the water crisis. Both Ministers missed the State of the Union address on Thursday evening. According to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, both will visit Tswane and Johannesburg. -Netwerk 24
Mr President, we want economic reform – ANC
The ANC urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to deliver firm, detailed economic reforms in the SONA, focusing on industrial policy, digital transformation, and a clearer national technology strategy. DA leader, John Steenhuisen, similarly emphasises urgent growth-focused reforms, especially in infrastructure, public‑private partnerships, and measurable governance targets, arguing that current empowerment policies need outcome‑based review. – Business Day
Kim Jong Un has chosen his successor, Kim Ju Ae
South Korea’s intelligence agency says Kim Jong Un has chosen his 13‑year‑old daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor. Despite North Korea’s patriarchal traditions and the existence of an unacknowledged older son, Ju Ae is increasingly portrayed as the regime’s second‑highest figure, appearing beside her father at military parades, missile tests and an overseas trip to Beijing. – BBC
Election votes are counted since student-led uprising in Bangladesh
Bangladesh has completed its first election since the 2024 student‑led uprising that ousted former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina. BNP declares victory for Tarique Rahman to be the next PM. Nearly a million security personnel were deployed amid ongoing tensions following the 2024 crackdown that left around 1 400 protesters dead. Voters also decided on a constitutional referendum, while interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, said the country was “beginning a new dream” after years of political turmoil. – Reuters