Wednesday, 21 October 2026

Sowetan deputy editor Tabiso Takadi expects today's budget statement to offer relief similar to past fuel levy cuts, but says it can only be a short-term measure, not a long-term fix.

Petrol has risen over 50% to more than R30 a litre and diesel is up 72% since March, pushing up transport and food costs, according to the Sowetan.

Statistics South Africa put annual consumer inflation at 4.4% in August, with transport prices up 8.8% year on year, a major contributor to household pressure.

Tshwane's mayor has confirmed an internal investigation and disciplinary proceedings after Bronkhorstspruit residents were allegedly kept uninformed for three weeks while unsafe water was supplied.