First Take SA

Madlanga Commission evidence leader, Advocate Matthew Chaskalson, has argued that the Commission does not have the power to declassify documents relating to Dr Ntandazo Sifolo's evidence. Sifolo is the Acting Co-ordinator of the National Intelligence Co-ordinating Committee. The evidence leaders have applied for his testimony to be heard in camera, a move opposed by three media organisations: amaBhungane, News24 and the Daily Maverick. Representing the media organisations, Advocate Ben Winks argued that the Commission has the power to decide whether evidence can be heard publicly, despite its classification. Sibahle Motha reports

As thousands of matriculants sit for their final examinations, concerns are growing about the mental health toll of academic pressure. Learners from Durban say expectations from parents, teachers and themselves can become overwhelming, while some are struggling with anxiety and uncertainty about their future. The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has partnered with digital mental health service provider - Cloud Therapist - to improve access to psychological support for learners. Celumusa Zulu reports.

The Congress of South African Trade Unions, COSATU says government has missed another opportunity to tackle unemployment, poverty and weak growth in yesterday's Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement. COSATU says while debt must be stabilised, austerity and early retirement packages will not unlock the three-percent growth needed to cut the 43.8 percent unemployment rate. The federation has however welcomed the ten-billion-rand fuel levy holiday for November and December, saying it will ease pressure on workers and lower inflation. We spoke to Matthew Parks, COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator.

Controversial businessman Suliman Carrim is expected to appear in the Musina Magistrate's Court today. He is facing additional charges of money laundering and vehicle theft. The cases follow the interception of two financed vehicles at the Beitbridge border post in Musina in July, allegedly en route to Malawi with fraudulent bank documents. Two suspects arrested at the time remain in custody. We spoke to Crime expert and Chief Executive Officer of IRS Forensic Investigations, Chad Thomas.

The Motor Industry Staff Association, MISA has welcomed the fuel levy relief announced in the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement, calling it a hard-won victory for workers. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a levy cut of three-rand for diesel and one-rand-fifty for petrol from the fourth of November to the first of December, with smaller reductions until January. The union says lower diesel costs should ease transport and food prices, but wants relief extended and support for paraffin-dependent households.We spoke to MISA Spokesperson, Phakamile Hlubi-Majola.