First Take SA

The Congress of South African Trade Unions, COSATU is reconvening its 15th National Congress today following earlier disruptions. Delegates are gathering at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, after internal friction completely paralyzed the initial gathering. COSATU affiliates are anticipated to attend as leadership moves to restore order and conclude outstanding business.

The Department of Basic Education is ready for the 2026 matric examinations, with thousands of candidates expected to sit for the National Senior Certificate exams across the country. Briefing the media in Pretoria on Sunday, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube says examination papers have been set, schools assessed for readiness and learners prepared through rigorous assessments and additional academic support. The department is targeting stronger monitoring to prevent irregularities, while also calling on communities to ensure learners have a conducive environment to write their exams. Our reporter, Musa Mhlongo has the details

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has condemned the shooting at the Bushbuckridge home of President of Contralesa Kgoshi Mathupa Mokoena. Police are investigating attempted murder and malicious damage to property following the incident on Thursday. Mayibuye says traditional leaders should not have to carry out public duties under threat of gunfire and has called for a properly resourced investigation. We spoke to Sidney Baloyi, Afrika Mayibuye National Spokesperson.

The EFF and the African Legal Professionals Association are in the Western Cape High Court today challenging the Impeachment Committee's decision to rescind Advocate Thandazani Madonsela as its evidence leader. The two applicants want the court to set aside the Committee's decision and have Madonsela reinstated. They argue the move to remove him was irrational and undermines the credibility and fairness of the impeachment process. We spoke to Godrich Gardee, EFF Deputy President.

The Siyafana Sonke Action Campaign in KwaZulu-Natal says threats against the Constitution and the Constitutional Court following its recent ruling on asylum seekers amount to an attack on the rule of law. The group says the ruling does not automatically grant asylum but requires Home Affairs to fairly consider applications in line with human rights obligations.We spoke to Yeshelen Govender, Spokesperson of the Siyafana Sonke Action Campaign.