SA among countries facing new 12.5% US tariff
South Africa is among 60 countries facing a new 12.5% tariff from the United States, creating fresh uncertainty for exporters and trade relations. The proposed measure could increase costs for South African businesses selling into the US market and comes amid broader shifts in global trade policy. Economists warn that higher barriers could hurt export competitiveness and place additional pressure on industries already dealing with weak growth and global economic volatility.
“A very concerning picture” of statutory rape in South Africa
A paltry 3 232 cases of statutory rape were recorded in South Africa over the past five years, with only 14% (or 449 cases) of these resulting in a conviction, according to a SAPS briefing to Parliament. Statutory rape concerns sexual activity with anyone under 16 years old, as they cannot legally consent. Chairman of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, this “paints a very concerning picture”. This crime is widely believed to be underreported, so the actual numbers are likely far higher. The police presentation said that this was a major challenge including ethical conflicts among those, such as teachers, who should report suspected crimes, harmful cultural beliefs about young people, the dependence for livelihoods of victims on perpetrators, fear of stigmatisation and a lack of confidence in the criminal justice system.
Police on alert over xenophobic violence
Nothing can justify violence in the name of a social or political goal, and South Africa’s security services are monitoring areas where instances of violence against migrants have been observed. This is the word from Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), South Africa’s intelligence coordinating body. Intelligence and security services were on alert and would take action against those perpetrating or inciting violence. “Violence is not activism. Intimidation is not community protection. Criminal conduct remains criminal conduct, regardless of the cause in whose name it is committed,” she said.
More officials implicated in Social Development fallout
Further members of the executive have been drawn into the fallout surrounding former Minister Sisisi Tolashe and the Department of Social Development, increasing scrutiny of governance, accountability, and internal decision-making. The controversy has raised questions about political oversight and whether senior officials acted appropriately in handling departmental challenges. The widening dispute adds pressure on government leaders to address concerns around transparency, institutional management, and public confidence in state administration.
Congress moves to limit Trump’s Iran war powers
The US House of Representatives has backed a resolution aimed at restricting President Donald Trump’s ability to take military action against Iran without congressional approval. Supporters argue the measure is needed to reinforce Congress’s constitutional role in decisions over war, while critics say it could weaken the president’s ability to respond quickly to security threats. The vote reflects growing concern in Washington over the risk of a broader conflict with Iran and the balance of power between Congress and the White House.
Sources: News24, Daily Maverick, Business Day, Reuters