Jacob Zuma’s facing renewed corruption trials as South Africa probes links to mercenaries and foreign fighters, reigniting his controversial legacy.
All Africa has reported that four Nigerian men have been killed fighting on frontlines after being recruited to Russia on the promise of security jobs and paid work. The Russian embassy in Abuja has denied any government-backed recruitment and has said it will share information with Russian law enforcement if evidence exists. Reports say the men were given tourist visas, trained for three weeks, pressed into service and deployed between December 2025 and January 2026.
African countries including Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya are confronting reports of their citizens being deceived and recruited to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Despite official denials, evidence suggests thousands have been lured with false promises, with some killed or captured. Governments are working to counter illegal recruitment schemes amid diplomatic tensions.
Mosiuoa Lekota, a prominent anti-apartheid activist, politician, and founding leader of COPE, died at age 77 after a period of illness. He was a Robben Island prisoner, served as Free State Premier, Defence Minister, and was influential in South Africa’s transition to democracy. His death marks the end of a significant political era.