Ramaphosa back in the hot seat as SA impeachment case restarts after court ruling. SA president since 2018, anti-apartheid activist, business leader.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has ordered the deployment of 550 soldiers across five provinces to combat organized crime, gang violence, and illegal mining. The move follows rising homicide rates and public concern, marking a significant escalation in efforts to restore law and order in South Africa. The deployment is set to last until March 2027.
U.S. Ambassador Leo Bozell's controversial remarks about South Africa's courts and policies have led to his summoning by South African officials. The incident underscores worsening diplomatic relations amid disputes over racial policies, judicial independence, and perceived interference, with ongoing tensions over the country's stance on Iran and domestic laws.
Muslim communities have been observing Eid al-Fitr this March, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers, family gatherings and traditional customs. Celebrations have been shadowed by the Iran war and heightened anti-Muslim rhetoric and immigration fears in the United States. In Indonesia, Malaysia and Egypt routine homecoming and festive practices are continuing.
The US is negotiating health aid deals with African nations that include demands for access to critical minerals and data sharing, causing pushback from countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia. The secrecy and conditions raise concerns about exploitation and sovereignty, with some nations walking away from negotiations.
South Africa has appointed Ralph Meyer as its new US ambassador, following a vacancy since 2025 and the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a key figure in ending apartheid, is expected to improve diplomatic relations with Washington amid recent tensions, including the US refugee program for white South Africans and diplomatic expulsions.
South Africa has appointed Roelf Meyer as its new ambassador to the US, replacing Ebrahim Rasool. Meyer, a former apartheid-era minister and key negotiator for the end of apartheid, is expected to help stabilize strained US-South Africa relations amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and US criticisms of South Africa's policies.
Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters, has been sentenced to five years in prison for firing a rifle at a 2018 rally. He has been released on bail pending appeal. If upheld, the sentence will disqualify him from Parliament, dealing a major blow to his party.
Venezuelan opposition leader Machado has visited Spain, meeting with opposition figures and avoiding talks with the government. She has received a warm welcome from conservative leaders, highlighting divisions within Venezuelan politics and contrasting her approach with that of the Spanish government, which emphasizes democratic sovereignty.
South Africa's police commissioner Fannie Masemola has been placed on precautionary suspension following charges of violating the Public Finance Management Act related to a R360 million tender. Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane is acting police commissioner as Masemola faces court proceedings. The suspension follows ongoing corruption allegations within the police force, impacting public trust and political stability.
Anti-immigrant groups have organised protests in Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban, urging stricter immigration enforcement and denouncing undocumented migrants. Demonstrations have disrupted commerce, drawn in political parties, and prompted police to monitor for violence and vigilantism.
President Trump has completed a two‑day state visit to Beijing with US business chiefs, holding talks with Xi Jinping on trade, Taiwan, Iran and AI. Leaders have agreed to set up trade and investment councils; Trump has touted unspecified "fantastic" deals including a reported 200‑plane Boeing order while Chinese statements remain cautious.
Nigerian, Ghanaian and Mozambican leaders have formalised complaints with Pretoria over xenophobic violence and the treatment of their nationals in South Africa, with Nigeria outlining voluntary repatriation plans for its citizens and Ghana seeking evacuation measures. The replies come as two Nigerians were killed last month amid protests and a spike in anti-foreigner sentiment.
Human rights groups warn of a new wave of xenophobic violence as anti-immigration movements organise protests across major cities, with vigilante actions and calls for foreigners to leave by a set date. Attacks have been reported against migrants and foreign-owned businesses, prompting court actions and concerns about state protection.
Uganda has sworn in President Yoweri Museveni for a seventh term after winning the January vote with about 72%. The ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds signals continuity in leadership, but observers say the election was marred by tensions, internet blackouts, and crackdowns on opposition. Analysts expect ongoing influence over Uganda’s political future and potential questions about succession.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has faced renewed scrutiny over the Phala Phala scandal as Parliament is ordered to restart impeachment proceedings. Ramaphosa has rejected resignation and will challenge the process in court, including a judicial review of the 2022 Section 89 panel report that flagged prima facie constitutional concerns.
The Bundibugyo strain Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has prompted international concern with no approved vaccine or treatment. Tensions have spiked as residents clash with authorities over safe burial procedures, while authorities warn unsafe burials drive transmission. The outbreak has led to arson at treatment centers and mass protests amid disbelief about the virus.
Parliament's Section 89 Impeachment Committee, revived by a Constitutional Court ruling, is moving to elect a chair and begin hearings on the Phala Phala scandal. President Cyril Ramaphosa has challenged the process in court while opposition parties push for accountability.
Lungu has died in a South African hospital at 68. A dispute over the former president’s burial persists between his family and President Hakainde Hichilema. Pretoria has ordered repatriation for a state ceremony, while the family seeks a South Africa burial; the South African courts have yet to rule on the matter.
A wave of xenophobic protests in South Africa targets foreign nationals, triggering government repatriation efforts and cross-border tensions. Nigeria and other nations have signalled retaliatory measures or voluntary repatriations as Mozambicans, Ghanians and other migrants seek safety. The situation has intensified as authorities pledge to crack down on violence and communities stage shelter and repatriation efforts.
South Africa has announced a set of diplomatic initiatives to address migration, including deploying envoys to engage origin, transit, and destination countries. The talks with Kenya's President Ruto emphasised continental cooperation, economic development, and regional integration as ways to ease migration pressures and boost AfCFTA-driven trade.