New acting National Commissioner appointed
President Cyril Ramaphosa has suspended national police commissioner Fannie Masemola over corruption-related charges linked to an irregular health services tender. Puleng Dimpane, previously head of financial management within the police service, has been appointed acting national commissioner, taking immediate control of operations during the suspension. Her appointment places a technocrat with financial oversight experience at the helm as authorities seek to stabilise leadership and restore accountability while the case proceeds.
National rail overhaul plan unveiled
Transport minister Barbara Creecy has unveiled a draft national rail master plan aimed at rebuilding South Africa’s struggling freight and passenger rail system and restoring it as the backbone of the economy. The plan sets out a long-term investment and reform programme, including greater private sector participation and a shift from road to rail to reduce costs and improve efficiency. It has been released for public consultation, with government warning that rail underperformance is constraining growth and exports.
Iran shifts towards military leadership
Iran’s leadership has become increasingly dominated by senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps generals following the death of Ali Khamenei and the serious injury of his son Mojtaba Khamenei, who had been expected to succeed him. With the supreme leadership weakened and largely absent from public view, decision-making has shifted to a more collective, security-driven structure led by military figures. Analysts say this consolidation of power among hardliners reflects both wartime pressures and internal fragmentation, potentially complicating Iran’s diplomatic posture and strategic coordination.
SAA cuts routes and seeks funding
South African Airways is reducing flights to some African destinations, including Botswana and Tanzania, as rising jet fuel costs and financial pressures undermine the viability of certain routes. The airline is again seeking additional funding to support operations, highlighting ongoing concerns about its financial sustainability despite efforts to stabilise the business.
Indonesia rejects Malacca Strait transit fees
Indonesia has ruled out imposing levies on ships passing through the strategic Malacca Strait, despite earlier discussions about charging transit fees. Officials said the move would risk disrupting global trade and undermine cooperation with neighbouring countries that share responsibility for the busy shipping lane.
Sources: BusinessDay, Daily Maverick, NY Times, News24, Bloomberg