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Poll Question: What do you think is the main reason for the recent Stage 6 load shedding?
According to the Daily Maverick, South Africa experienced an unexpected return to Stage 6 load shedding over the weekend due to multiple unit failures at Majuba, Camden, and Medupi power stations, leading to a significant loss in generation capacity. Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa assured the public that the government is addressing the crisis and aims to eliminate load shedding as a structural issue. The outages come shortly after Eskom celebrated 300 consecutive days without load shedding, sparking public frustration and speculation that the power cuts were linked to the 12.7% tariff increase approval, significantly lower than Eskom’s requested 36% hike. Eskom CEO Dan Marokane attributed the crisis to technical failures, including a transformer overload at Majuba, but emphasized that recovery efforts were underway, with several units already returning to service. Meanwhile, social media allegations suggested Eskom’s diesel supply was cut due to non-payment, which the utility denied. Despite setbacks, officials remain optimistic about restoring stability by the end of the week.
Poll Question: How do you feel about the proposed VAT increase from 15% to 17% in South Africa?
According to Times Live, the proposed increase in VAT from 15% to 17% in South Africa could result in a R44 rise in VAT on a basic food basket, raising concerns about the financial strain on low-income households. Despite plans to expand the zero-rated food basket to include more protein, essential items like infant formula remain excluded, impacting families relying on child support grants. The budget speech was postponed to March 12 due to disagreements within the government, allowing for further public debate on the tax hike. Experts argue that zero-rating more food items does not fully protect the poor, as they still need to afford other essentials like electricity and school expenses. Additionally, potential price increases and administrative challenges could undermine the benefits of zero-rating. The Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice and Dignity group warns that the VAT hike would disproportionately affect the most vulnerable, leaving them with minimal financial relief despite proposed social grant increases.
Poll Question: What’s your take on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s stance on the NHI budget?
According to EWN, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has stated that he cannot allocate a budget for the National Health Insurance (NHI) until Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi provides a clear cost estimate. He emphasized the need for substantial improvements to healthcare facilities before NHI can be implemented, as many hospitals currently do not meet the necessary standards. The NHI has become a contentious issue, with conflicting political perspectives on its feasibility and funding. Godongwana highlighted that previous cost estimates were speculative and that the government must first assess the full financial requirements. His proposed budget includes a plan to accelerate hospital upgrades and infrastructure development, with increased funding windows to support healthcare workers and improve services. However, his inability to table the budget due to a VAT-related impasse with Government of National Unity (GNU) partners has further complicated the issue.
Poll Question: What do you think about Pick n Pay featuring Rick Ross in their ad?
Retailer Pick n Pay is facing backlash after featuring American rapper Rick Ross in its latest advertisement while reportedly closing 32 supermarkets across South Africa, Times Live reports. The ad, which also includes comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout and features DJ Khaled’s hit song All I Do Is Win, has sparked criticism for its lack of local representation. Many social media users argue that the retailer should have chosen a South African artist who resonates more with the brand’s audience. Others question the decision to hire an international celebrity at a time when the company is shutting down stores, potentially affecting jobs. Podcaster Penuel Mlotshwa criticized the move, stating that the campaign lacks brand alignment and that overseas celebrities should only be used if they sell products in the country. Similarly, Facebook users expressed frustration, with some suggesting that Pick n Pay could have used amapiano artists for a more relevant and cost-effective campaign. The controversy has led to wider discussions about corporate spending, brand authenticity, and consumer expectations in local marketing.
Poll Question: What do you think about the new Expropriation Bill signed into law?
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Expropriation Bill into law, allowing for the expropriation of land with nil compensation under specific conditions in the public interest, reports News24. The law aims to align expropriation legislation with Section 25 of the Constitution, which permits property acquisition for public purposes with just and equitable compensation. The bill underwent five years of public consultation and parliamentary deliberation. It replaces the outdated Expropriation Act of 1975. While supported as a tool for land reform and redress, it faced opposition from political parties like the DA, IFP, and FF Plus.
How do you feel about the potential breach of the matric results?
According to Times Live, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube assured South Africans that the integrity of the 2024 matric results remains intact despite a potential breach. Reports surfaced that a company, Edumarks, was selling matric results for R99.90, raising concerns about how the data was acquired and the accuracy of the results. Some individuals claimed they paid but could not access the results. The Hawks and state security are investigating the breach, which is suspected to have occurred during the final stages of result verification. Gwarube emphasized the department’s commitment to ensuring secure systems and promised accountability if the breach originated internally. She condemned the exploitation of pupils and parents by platforms profiting from the leak.
How should this incident involving the sergeant and the suspect have been handled?
According to Times Live, a police sergeant in Pretoria faces scrutiny for allegedly failing to charge a woman suspected of public drinking after a video went viral showing her resisting arrest. The woman, claiming to be an international lawyer, argued with the officer at the police station, questioning her arrest. Despite the offense of drinking in her vehicle, the sergeant didn’t follow detention protocols or file charges, leading to the suspect’s release. This has sparked a public debate, with some criticizing the suspect’s behavior and others questioning the officer’s handling of the situation. The sergeant has been reassigned to administrative duties while under investigation.
Poll Question: What are your plans for ringing in the New Year?
As we approach the end of another year, New Year’s celebrations remind us of the joy of fresh beginnings and cherished traditions. Whether you’re planning a lively party with loved ones, a peaceful evening at home, or an adventurous escape, the spirit of hope and renewal unites us all.
Thank you for being an essential part of our journey in 2024. Your support and engagement have made this year truly special, and we can’t wait to step into 2025 with you. Cheers to a wonderful New Year! 
Poll Question: What do you think was Tyla’s biggest highlight at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards?
According to News24, South African pop star Tyla shone at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards, winning Top Afrobeats Song and Top Afrobeats Artist among her 8 nominations. In her pre-recorded acceptance speech, she thanked her supporters, family, and record label while humorously addressing the surprise of her win. Tyla also used the platform to highlight the diversity of African music, emphasizing her South African roots and amapiano culture.
The event marked another milestone in Tyla’s remarkable year, which included wins at the Grammys, BET Awards, MTV EMAs, VMAs, and SAMAs. Her debut album became the first 2024 release certified Gold by the RIAA. Tyla capped off her South African tour earlier this month and is set to perform again in January 2025.
