Controversial South African Airways-Takatso Deal Hits Roadblock as Government Raises Price
The highly contentious sale of a 51% stake in South African Airways (SAA) to the Takatso consortium for R51 has come to a sudden halt as the government demands a higher price, according to a report by News24. Minister of Public Enterprises Pravin Gordhan announced the termination of the deal after a Cabinet meeting, citing various reasons, including the failure to meet public interest and fair market price standards during renegotiations with Takatso. Despite facing criticism from within his own party and the Treasury, Gordhan maintained that SAA could sustain itself for the next 12 to 18 months without additional funding, emphasizing that it would not receive money from the government’s coffers. The lack of transparency surrounding the deal has raised suspicions, with Gordhan defending his integrity amidst allegations, as he recently announced his retirement from politics.
Thabo Mbeki Criticizes Jacob Zuma’s MK Breakaway
Former President Thabo Mbeki has spoken out against former President Jacob Zuma’s breakaway political party, uMkhonto weSizwe, stating that it is led by individuals who previously sought to dismantle the South African Revenue Services, as reported by IOL. Speaking at the University of South Africa’s annual lecture, Mbeki highlighted the contradictions in Zuma’s position, as Zuma expressed support for the MK party while claiming to remain a member of the African National Congress (ANC). Mbeki pointed out the illogical nature of supporting a party that aims to challenge the ANC while still being part of the ANC itself. He linked the leadership of the MK party to individuals involved in the Sars controversy, casting doubt on their credibility. Meanwhile, the youth league of the MK party has put forward Zuma as their presidential candidate, threatening to disrupt elections if their party is not included on the ballot. The dispute over the use of the name uMkhonto weSizwe between the ANC and the MK party will be taken to the Electoral Court for resolution.
FNB Reduces Vehicle License Disc Renewal Fee on App to R69, Offers Cashback Incentive
First National Bank (FNB) has announced a decrease in its service fee for vehicle license disc renewals through its app, lowering the total fee to R69 for a limited time, down from the previous R99, as per TimesLIVE. Customers can also receive a cashback offer of R99 in eBucks by obtaining an insurance quote from FNB Insurance and renewing their license disc via the FNB app. This initiative aims to provide affordable and convenient solutions amidst economic challenges such as high-interest rates and inflation. In collaboration with the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the service eliminates the need for paperwork for registered vehicle owners; users can simply scan their license disc with a smart device and complete the renewal securely within the app. Previously only available at specific locations like post offices or driver’s license centers, vehicle license disc renewals are now offered by various private institutions, including banks, supermarkets, and eNatis. FNB’s chief imagineer, Jolandé Duvenage, highlighted the increasing popularity of the service, with over one million vehicles uploaded to the platform and 107,000 license renewals completed in the past year. This service is part of FNB’s broader Car ecosystem, offering solutions ranging from vehicle value estimates to insurance and repair options.