Polls

Sanet Solomon, a political analyst from Unisa, commented on the shifting dynamics within South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as some members defect to the Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party. Solomon noted that these defections could widen the divide between EFF co-founders Julius Malema and Floyd Shivambu, whose relationship has reportedly been strained due to differences in leadership styles and future party goals, The Citizen reports. Shivambu’s alignment with MK seems to stem from his perception of EFF as heavily centered around Malema, leaving limited room for his advancement. Rumors also suggest that EFF MPs Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and Carl Niehaus may follow Shivambu to MK, although Shivambu denies recruiting former EFF members, emphasizing that MK’s growth isn’t reliant on EFF defections. Malema’s recent tweet hints at further anticipated exits, possibly signaling deeper internal rifts within the EFF.

Image credit: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, X

According to News24, the recent murder of underworld figure Mark Lifman has shaken the Cape Town security industry due to the alleged involvement of individuals tied to his own security company, Professional Protection Alternatives (PPA). Lifman was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Garden Route Mall by two men, Johan Hendrik Jacobs and Gert “Johnny” Bezuidenhout, who previously worked in security and had links to PPA. Both suspects, now charged with premeditated murder, were quickly apprehended by police after allegedly attempting to evade capture by changing their vehicle’s registration and appearance.

Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile described Jacobs as a highly trained former Special Task Force member, and authorities are still investigating potential motives behind the killing, with suspicions that Lifman may have known his killers. Lifman’s associates speculate that tension within the underworld and longstanding rivalries may have played a role in his death. The murder has raised concerns about power struggles among security and gang factions in Cape Town, with police ramping up efforts to prevent further violence.

Image credit: X

According to News24, Chidimma Adetshina and her mother face the withdrawal of their South African identity documents after failing to respond to the Department of Home Affairs’ queries. The Hawks have concluded an investigation into potential identity fraud linked to Adetshina’s mother, with the National Prosecuting Authority now reviewing it. Adetshina’s participation in Miss South Africa led to questions about her citizenship, prompting her withdrawal from the competition. She later won the Miss Universe Nigeria title, representing her Nigerian nationality. Home Affairs updated Parliament on its findings, which may result in the formal withdrawal of their identity documents.

Image credit: Chidimma Adetshina, Instagram