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Property Tycoon Accuses PIC Officials of Bribery in Botched Loan Deal South African property tycoon Ralebala Rali Mampeule alleges senior PIC officials of bribery and corruption in a seven hundred million rand loan deal. The PIC funded Mampeules company to buy a stake in MetroFibre Networx, but the deal soured when Mampeule requested additional funds for old legal fees and working capital, despite his companies being non-operational. Mampeule defaulted on debts, threatening business rescue, leading to the PIC seizing MetroFibre shares. He claims bribery, but the PIC denies the allegations, citing defaults as the cause. The deals value is now under negotiation, potentially resulting in a two hundred million rand payout for Mampeule. Checkout Solipillow.com

DSDTV: A South African Social Development Departments In-House Video Channel Scandal The South African Social Development Departments in-house video channel, DSDTV, has become the center of a heated controversy between current minister Sisisi Tolashe and her predecessor, Lindiwe Zulu. Launched in 2023, the platform aimed to save costs by streaming news, notices, and events directly to staff and media. However, Tolashe suspended it after parliament questions revealed potential mismanagement, including a lack of business plan, poor monitoring, and wasteful spending. The project saw costs skyrocket, with hardware spending reaching five million rand, the platform itself costing one million rand, and payments to service providers like Vula Connect totaling two million rand over two years. The Sunday Times reported on wasteful trips, such as a three-million-rand New York jaunt, leading to the suspension of former communications head Lumka Oliphant over unauthorized spending. Zulu defended the project, claiming procedures were followed and questioning why advisers now criticize the project they once supported. Oliphant accused Tolashe of lying to parliament to cover tracks. ActionSA MP Dereleen James pushed for full accounting, highlighting the lack of cost-benefit analysis or performance review. Draft documents once supported DSDTVs value, but officials scrapped them for a tougher parliamentary response. The investigation into DSDTV concludes in April 2026, leaving everyone eager to see what comes next. This scandal underscores deeper financial woes in the department, which is also grappling with bigger issues like irregular grant spending and closing rehab centers. Checkout Solipillow.com

Gautengs School Upgrade Projects: A Decade in the Making - Despite investing nearly one billion rand, only two out of dozens of school upgrade projects will be ready for the new term. Stalled and abandoned projects, coupled with poor oversight, have left communities in Eldorado Park and Zola with inadequate learning spaces. The department is now employing rescue contractors, a law firm, and a digital platform to expedite the process, but experts warn that skilled staff and cleaner procurement are equally crucial for success. Checkout Solipillow.com

Cape Towns Kenilworth Racecourse hosted the LOrmarins Kings Plate, a glamorous horse racing event with a three million rand purse. The Real Prince won the main race amidst strict dress codes and high stakes. Former Miss South Africa Cindy Nell and neuroscience coach Liezel van der Westhuizen turned heads with their elegant outfits. Model Mala Bryan and tech mogul Frank van Wezels wife Caroline van Wezel were among the attendees. The Stud Club marquee buzzed with celebrities, including comedian Mpho Popps and actor Zamani Mbatha. Despite the heat, the event blended fashion, star power, and thrilling races, solidifying Kings Plate as Cape Towns elegant social highlight. Checkout Solipillow.com

South Africas coastal spots, including Durban, Cape Town, and Buffalo City, are experiencing a significant tourism boom this holiday season, with visitor numbers surpassing pre-Covid levels. Durbans beaches, such as uShaka, North Beach, South Beach, and Umhlanga, attracted large crowds due to accessible facilities, safety measures, and stunning views. The citys robust safety plans, including extensive police presence and water quality checks, ensured a secure and enjoyable experience for visitors. Buffalo City saw a 14% increase in hotel occupancy, generating substantial revenue for local businesses. Cape Towns airport handled over ten million passengers last year, with a record three million international travelers, indicating strong growth in jobs and the economy. This surge in tourism bodes well for South Africas beaches, signaling a brighter future for the industry. Checkout Solipillow.com

Cheating Scandal Rocks South Africas Matric Exams: Despite Leaks, Results Approved; Implicated Students on Hold A cheating scandal has unfolded in South Africas matric exams, involving two department officials and forty pupils from seven schools. Despite the breach, Umalusi approved the 2022 national senior certificate results. The scandal involved leaked English, mathematics, and physical sciences papers, with implicated students results on hold. The majority of achievements remain credible, giving hope to dedicated pupils. Checkout Solipillow.com

Golden Globes Buzz: Greg Kriek Predicts Sinners for Best Motion Picture Drama, DiCaprio vs. Chalamet Race Heats Up Checkout Solipillow.com

A legal dispute escalates between former friends Thabo Tbo Touch Molefe and Lesiba Gwangwa, stemming from a luxury car sale and a failed music concert. Molefe owes money on the car and concert investment, leading to demand letters and accusations of debt evasion. Molefe counters with claims of incorrect figures and offers to pay directly. Tensions rise, with a cease-and-desist on the horizon, threatening to fully sever their once-close relationship. Checkout Solipillow.com

Durbans Controversial Statues: A Tale of History, Art, and Spending Priorities - The city unveils two massive bronze statues of Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela, costing twenty-two million rand, sparking debate over vanity spending versus addressing real issues like housing and sanitation. Checkout Solipillow.com