RC 261015702Africa Melane
Thursday, 15 October 2026
Crime and courts dominated Thursday's Early Breakfast, from the Sibiya bail hearing and a fresh Marshalltown substation blast to a 136% jump in special vote applications ahead of the November elections.
- 05:02
Shadrack Sibiya's bail hearing continues after the state filed affidavits from two teenage girls, aged 16 and 18, who say they live in fear. His lawyer argues their distress is not a reason to deny bail.
- 05:01
City Power can no longer confirm restoring power to Marshalltown by midday Thursday after a fresh blast at the Marshalltown substation. It was the fourth fire since April, and technicians were assessing Tuesday's blaze.
- 05:15
A study commissioned by British American Tobacco South Africa puts illicit cigarettes at almost 75% of the market this year, up from 27% in 2022, with tax losses of up to R30 billion.
- 04:08
The IEC has approved 2.6 million special votes ahead of the 4 November local government elections, with applications up 136% on the previous round.
- 04:02
Mike Shingange was elected president of Cosatu at its 15th National Congress in Kempton Park. He told delegates to rebuild membership and put workers' plight ahead of leaders' egos.