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Julius Malema Defends Migrants During SACP Conference Speech

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Julius Malema

Julius Malema has strongly criticised the growing anti-illegal immigration marches taking place across South Africa, describing them as “Afrophobia” directed at vulnerable African migrants rather than the real causes of the country’s economic struggles.

The Economic Freedom Fighters leader made the remarks while addressing the South African Communist Party Conference of the Left in Boksburg on Friday.

The three-day conference was organised to strengthen political coordination, working-class unity and ideological collaboration among leftist formations and progressive organisations.

Julius Malema

Speaking during his address, Malema argued that poor African migrants should not be blamed for South Africa’s unemployment crisis, collapsing public services or economic inequality.

“Poor Africans from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, or elsewhere on the continent are not responsible for unemployment, inequality, or collapsing public services,” he said.

Malema described the conference as taking place during what he called a decisive historical period marked by economic instability, political uncertainty and the visible decline of the global capitalist system.

“We gather in a world defined by obscene concentration of wealth alongside unprecedented levels of poverty, technological advancement alongside expanding human misery, and enormous productive capacity alongside deepening unemployment, hunger and social collapse,” he said.

According to Malema, modern capitalism no longer attempts to justify itself morally and instead openly embraces inequality, competition and profit-driven systems that leave millions trapped in poverty and insecurity.

“It has abandoned the language of justice and embraced the language of markets, competition and permanent inequality,” he argued.

The EFF leader said societies structured around profit and commodification reduce people to economic tools, contributing to racism, misogyny, militarisation, xenophobia and social breakdown.

He also linked South Africa’s crime levels, gender-based violence, drug abuse and social instability to widespread unemployment and economic exclusion.

“When millions of people are denied meaningful participation in society, the result is not merely poverty but the breakdown of social cohesion itself,” he said.

Turning specifically to anti-immigration protests, Malema warned against what he described as simplistic narratives blaming migrants for South Africa’s economic and governance problems.

“The growing phenomenon of Afrophobia within South Africa must be confronted with absolute political clarity because it represents one of the most dangerous expressions of false consciousness within the working class,” he said.

“Migrants did not privatise state capacity. Migrants did not concentrate ownership of land and industry. Migrants did not construct an economy incapable of absorbing labour.”

His remarks come amid ongoing demonstrations and tensions surrounding undocumented immigrants in various parts of the country, with some groups demanding stricter border control and stronger action against illegal immigration.

Malema argued that directing anger toward poor African migrants ultimately protects the systems and structures responsible for inequality and economic suffering.

“A left that cannot defend African solidarity has abandoned its historical mission,” he added.

The EFF leader also touched on growing tensions within the governing alliance following the formation of the Government of National Unity after the 2024 general election.

Relations between the ANC and SACP have deteriorated in recent months, particularly after the SACP criticised President Cyril Ramaphosa and the ANC leadership for including the Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus in the GNU.

Malema claimed the ANC increasingly treats independent political organisations as threats rather than allies.

“For decades, the ANC occupied such a central position within South African political life that sections of its leadership began confusing the organisation itself with the entirety of liberation politics,” he said.

The conference was attended by representatives from several political and civic organisations, including the MK Party, Pan Africanist Congress, AZAPO, NUMSA and SANCO.

Second Explosion Hits Woolworths Store, This Time in Bloemfontein

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Woolworths

Just a day after an explosive device detonated inside a Woolworths store in Pretoria, a second explosion has now rocked another branch in Bloemfontein, raising growing concerns about safety and security at the retailer’s outlets.

The latest incident occurred at Woolworths’ branch in Preller Square in the northern suburbs of the city at approximately 3am on Friday morning.

According to Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, the matter has since been handed over to the elite Hawks unit for further investigation.

Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Fikiswa Matoti confirmed that authorities were alerted after the store manager received a call from a security company reporting an explosion inside the premises.

“The store manager received a call from a security company informing him about an explosion inside the store,” Matoti said.

She added that the local explosives unit and other relevant authorities were deployed to the scene as investigations into the cause of the blast continue.

Kareli further explained that specialists were carefully processing the area to determine whether there may have been additional explosive devices or evidence linked to a possible secondary explosion.

“Our explosives unit is still busy at the scene, processing the entire area to determine whether there was a secondary explosion or another device that may have been stored or placed somewhere,” he said.

While the affected section of the Woolworths store remained sealed off, other areas of the shopping centre were reopened to the public as police continued their investigation.

The incident follows another explosion that took place at a Woolworths branch inside Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria earlier this week.

According to Tshwane police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, the Pretoria explosion occurred at around 1am on Thursday while workers were busy stocking shelves inside the store.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either incident.

“According to preliminary information, the store manager received a telephone call from personnel stationed at the store informing him of an explosion that occurred inside the premises,” Van Dyk explained.

Emergency services responded immediately and secured the scene after an alleged unknown explosive device detonated on one of the shelves.

“At the time of the incident, five packers were on duty inside the store, and fortunately, no injuries were reported,” he said.

Authorities confirmed that the damage in the Pretoria incident was mainly limited to shelving and food products inside the store.

The back-to-back explosions have sparked concern among shoppers and social media users, with many calling for increased security measures while investigations continue into whether the incidents may be connected.

Tyla and Future Unite for Official 2026 FIFA World Cup Song ‘Game Time’

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Tyla and Future

South African superstar Tyla and American rapper Future are turning up the excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after FIFA officially confirmed their upcoming collaboration, Game Time.

The global football governing body announced that the new single will be released on Friday, 29 May, as part of the official soundtrack for the 2026 World Cup, adding another major musical moment to the build-up surrounding the tournament.

Tyla and Future

The announcement arrives as anticipation for the competition continues to grow, with football and music increasingly blending into one massive global pop culture spectacle ahead of kick-off next month.

Game Time joins an already star-studded World Cup soundtrack lineup. Earlier this month, Shakira and Burna Boy teamed up for the official tournament anthem Dai Dai, while LISA, Anitta and Rema collaborated on another World Cup track titled Goals, which was released on 21 May.

This year’s FIFA soundtrack strategy appears heavily focused on international collaborations, bringing together artists from different genres, cultures and continents as FIFA prepares for what is expected to be the biggest World Cup tournament in history.

For Tyla, the collaboration marks yet another huge international milestone in a career that continues to rise at remarkable speed. The Grammy-winning singer has rapidly evolved into one of Africa’s biggest global music exports, with her crossover success continuing to expand across international markets.

Tyla and Future

The South African star is also part of the high-profile lineup set to perform during the World Cup opening festivities across North America. FIFA previously confirmed that Tyla will perform in Mexico City ahead of the opening match between Mexico and the South Africa national football team at the iconic Estadio Azteca on 11 June.

She is also expected to perform again in Los Angeles on 12 June alongside major stars including Katy Perry, Future, LISA and Rema.

The performances form part of FIFA’s massive entertainment plans for the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

For the first time in World Cup history, the tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, making it the largest edition of the competition ever staged.

Tyla’s involvement in both the official soundtrack and opening ceremonies comes during a major career moment as she prepares for the release of her upcoming sophomore album, APop*. The singer recently dominated headlines after winning both Social Song of the Year and Best Afrobeats Artist at the American Music Awards for her hit single Chanel.

Meanwhile, Future’s inclusion on the World Cup soundtrack adds another global crossover achievement for the Atlanta rapper, whose influence continues to extend far beyond hip hop and into worldwide entertainment culture.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off on 11 June, while the final is scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium on 19 July.

South African Music Awards Set to Return to North West Province in 2026

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SAMAs

After four years away, the South African Music Awards are officially returning “home” to the North West Province for what organisers are calling a major celebration of South African music and culture.

The Recording Industry of South Africa (RiSA) confirmed that the 32nd edition of the SAMAs will take place on 15 August 2026 in the North West Province, marking a significant return for one of the country’s biggest entertainment events.

North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC Galerekwe Tsotso Tlhapi made the announcement and expressed excitement about welcoming the awards ceremony back to the province.

“It feels like yesterday when we hosted the 28th instalment of the SAMAs here in North West. This province has always been a proud and capable host, and we are ready once again to welcome the nation,” she said.

Tlhapi added that the return of the awards represents more than just another event on the entertainment calendar, describing it as a renewed celebration of the province’s cultural energy, hospitality and creative infrastructure.

The province previously hosted the awards in 2022, when personalities including Nandi Madida, Lawrence Maleka, Mpho Popps and Robot Boii led the ceremony at the Sun City SuperBowl over two nights.

However, the 28th edition faced heavy criticism at the time due to reports of disorganisation, disputes surrounding category winners and low attendance from several artists and industry figures. The backlash ultimately led to changes behind the scenes, including the removal of the team responsible for media and publicity management.

The following year also brought challenges for the SAMAs. Plans to move the event to Durban reportedly collapsed after provincial funding was withdrawn, forcing organisers to stage the 29th edition at the SunBet Arena in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria.

In recent years, the awards ceremony has faced growing pressure to restore its reputation and reconnect with audiences after criticism over production quality, organisation and industry participation.

The 30th and 31st editions were hosted at Gallagher Estate, but last year’s ceremony again sparked online discussion, with some viewers questioning whether preparations had been rushed.

Despite the challenges, organisers say major efforts are already underway to ensure that the 32nd edition delivers a stronger and more polished production experience.

SAMA spokesperson Unathi Gwija revealed that stakeholder consultations have already begun as planning intensifies ahead of the ceremony.

“We have already begun extensive stakeholder consultations in preparation for the SAMAs. There is a strong sense of excitement and unity as we return to the North West, a province that has proven itself as an exceptional host,” Gwija explained.

With the awards returning to familiar ground, MEC Tlhapi has described the upcoming ceremony as a “homecoming edition,” celebrating not only music and legacy, but also the continued evolution and global growth of South African sound.

Lerato Kganyago Breaks Down Over Betrayal and Public Criticism

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Lerato Kganyago

South African media personality Lerato Kganyago has sparked widespread conversation online after an emotional livestream in which she opened up about the personal struggles she and her husband, businessman Thami Ndlala, have allegedly been facing behind the scenes.

The broadcaster, who recently hosted the Metro FM Music Awards, became visibly emotional while reflecting on the pressure, criticism and public scrutiny that have surrounded their names in recent months.

Lerato Kganyago

During the livestream on 26 May 2026, Lerato admitted that the constant backlash has taken a serious emotional toll on both their marriage and personal lives.

“I think life is even tougher for us because people just hate us. From the first day that we got married, I think that’s why we haven’t even had a white wedding,” she said.

Lerato also spoke candidly about feeling unsupported by people within the entertainment industry, claiming that many individuals who once benefited from her husband’s generosity have distanced themselves during what she described as one of the most difficult periods of their lives.

The media personality reflected on how her achievements and years of hard work in the entertainment industry are often overshadowed by criticism and controversy, saying she rarely feels celebrated for her success.

During the livestream, Lerato briefly addressed the controversy surrounding 12 on Hillel Villa and Spa, the luxury Johannesburg hotel linked to her and her husband, after it was previously mentioned during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. An unnamed witness had allegedly claimed that the venue was used as a meeting point involving senior police officials and alleged criminals.

Adding another deeply personal layer to the conversation, Lerato revealed that she had experienced a phantom pregnancy, opening up about the emotional trauma she has quietly endured while also facing relentless criticism online.

She further dismissed allegations suggesting that her husband’s businesses benefited from government corruption, insisting that Thami Ndlala built his success independently and without relying on tenders.

“If only y’all knew that my husband does not even like tenders, he doesn’t like the government. He will start from the bottom with the R1 he has and hope for a miracle; that’s how Ndlala Mall came about,” she explained.

The emotional livestream quickly sparked intense reactions across social media platforms. While many users sympathised with Lerato’s vulnerability and praised her for speaking openly about emotional struggles, others continued debating the controversies surrounding the couple’s business interests and public image.

The conversation has once again highlighted the pressures faced by high-profile public figures in South Africa, particularly when personal challenges unfold under constant public scrutiny.

DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small Trend After Viral Crowd Video

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DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small

Amapiano stars DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small have become the centre of online debate after videos from their recent London performance began circulating across social media platforms.

The duo, popularly known as the Scorpion Kings, recently took their signature amapiano sound overseas with performances in Ibiza and London, including an appearance alongside internationally acclaimed DJ Black Coffee at Hi Ibiza.

While the international bookings highlighted amapiano’s growing global reach and influence, not everyone was convinced by the reception the pair received abroad.

DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small

A video from their London set started trending online on Monday, 25 May 2026, with some social media users claiming the crowd appeared less energetic and emotionally disconnected during parts of the performance.

Although many fans praised the duo for continuing to fly the South African flag internationally, critics argued that the audience did not fully connect with the slower, groove-based nature of amapiano music.

“The crowd is not inspired. Black Coffee invited them to show that he is the only boss in this industry. Kabza and Madumane have learned that they still have a long way to go,” one user commented online.

Another social media user wrote: “It’s too quiet, it’s not making sense. I think this crowd came for something different, not them.”

Despite the criticism, loyal supporters quickly defended the Scorpion Kings, arguing that international audiences often react differently to amapiano compared to crowds in South Africa, where the genre originated and enjoys massive cultural influence.

“First, the crowd was not bored, but that’s how the crowd reacts to that type of music. Amapiano is super slow for those types of spaces,” another user explained.

Others pointed out that European club audiences often engage with music differently, especially in venues known for house and electronic music rather than dance-heavy crowd interaction.

The debate has once again highlighted the challenges and opportunities that come with exporting South African music to global audiences. While amapiano has experienced explosive international growth in recent years, artists still face the task of adapting their sound and performances to different cultural environments and audience expectations.

Despite the mixed reactions online, many fans believe the Scorpion Kings’ continued presence on international stages is proof that amapiano is steadily cementing itself as a worldwide genre rather than just a South African trend.

Sizwe Dhlomo Leaves Kaya 959 — Fans Demand Answers

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Sizwe Dhlomo

South African media personality Sizwe Dhlomo has officially announced that he will be stepping away from Kaya 959, bringing an end to a major chapter in his radio career.

Listeners were left shocked on Wednesday morning, 27 May 2026, when Dhlomo shared the news live on air during an emotional address on the station’s breakfast show.

The veteran broadcaster revealed that he plans to leave Kaya 959 at the end of June as he prepares to take a sabbatical after spending years behind the microphone and in the public eye.

Sizwe Dhlomo

While explaining his decision, Dhlomo admitted that stepping away was not an easy choice, but said he had already made peace with it long before publicly announcing it to listeners.

He also clarified that although he may eventually return to radio in the future, Kaya 959 would not be the station he returns to, signaling what appears to be a permanent departure from the broadcaster.

According to Dhlomo, he first made the decision to resign back in 2025 and has since spent time mentally and professionally preparing for the transition.

During the announcement, he encouraged his co-hosts and colleagues to fully support whoever will eventually take over his role on the breakfast show, emphasizing the importance of continuity for both the station and its listeners.

Since joining Kaya 959 in 2020, Sizwe Dhlomo has become one of the station’s most recognisable and influential voices. He earned praise for his outspoken opinions, thought-provoking interviews and ability to drive conversations around politics, current affairs, entertainment and social issues.

His broadcasting style often sparked debate online, with listeners regularly engaging with his commentary across social media platforms. Over the years, he built a reputation as one of South Africa’s most impactful radio personalities.

Following the announcement, social media was flooded with reactions from listeners, celebrities and media industry figures, many expressing surprise and sadness over his departure while thanking him for his contribution to radio.

As speculation grows about who could replace him on the breakfast show, many fans are also wondering what the next chapter of Sizwe Dhlomo’s career will look like after his planned break from broadcasting.

Gabrielle Union’s Heartfelt Tribute in Cape Town Moves Fans Worldwide

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Gabrielle Union

Hollywood actress Gabrielle Union has sparked widespread debate on South African social media after a video surfaced showing her laying her late father’s ashes to rest in the Western Cape.

The emotional moment reportedly took place at Klein Goederust Wine Estate, a black-owned vineyard in Cape Town, where the actress is said to have buried the ashes beneath the vines in a private tribute.

Gabrielle Union

The video quickly circulated online, drawing a wide range of reactions from social media users who expressed both sympathy and curiosity about the unusual resting place.

Union previously confirmed that her father, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr., passed away on 3 April 2026 at the age of 81 after battling dementia. The late military veteran’s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and public figures around the world.

In recent weeks, the actress has been spending time in South Africa, sharing moments from her visit, including clips of Cape Town scenery and local shopping experiences. Her trip comes months after fellow American actress Meagan Good was also spotted in the country, further highlighting growing Hollywood interest in South Africa as a travel destination.

Gabrielle Union

While many social media users praised Gabrielle Union for choosing a meaningful and peaceful location to honour her father’s memory, others questioned the decision to bury his ashes in South Africa rather than in the United States, where he lived.

Some users also raised concerns about whether the necessary permissions were obtained, while others debated the cultural and legal implications of such a burial arrangement on private land.

Despite the debate, many supporters defended the actress, saying the gesture reflected a deeply personal connection to the place and a desire to honour her father in a serene and symbolic environment.

Gabrielle Union

Others reacted more lightheartedly, with some joking online about the vineyard becoming “haunted,” adding to the viral nature of the moment.

The incident has since sparked broader conversations about grief, cultural practices, and how public figures choose to memorialise loved ones in deeply personal ways.

Cassper Nyovest Reacts After Fifi Madima Killing, Says South Africa Is Not Safe

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Cassper Nyovest

South African rapper Cassper Nyovest has sparked widespread discussion online after reacting to reports of violent crime in the country, following the tragic death of Rofhiwa (Fifi) Madima, a Project Manager for Digital Transformation at Cardinal Insurance Management Systems.

Cassper took to social media in an emotional post, expressing frustration, grief and fear over what he described as the worsening state of safety in South Africa, particularly for women and children.

Responding to reports about Madima’s death, he wrote: “Dawg!!! This is so sad to read through!!! South Africa is a mad place, especially for women and children!!!! She even tried to get help from police but she was killed, in the most brutal way!!! She what are you actually saying?”

Cassper Nyovest

In another strongly worded message, the rapper expanded on his concerns about the broader climate of violence in the country.

“I will not lie to you man, South Africa is not a safe place to be. The rate people are getting murdered is just traumatising & I feel like our lives don’t matter to THEM as they matter to us. Like we are just numbers and not people. Dawg like, peoples lives? Are you kidding me?”

The comments followed reports surrounding the killing of Rofhiwa (Fifi) Madima in Venda, Limpopo, in March 2025. She was described by colleagues as a dedicated professional and a warm, positive presence in the workplace, with tributes highlighting her commitment to her role and her uplifting personality.

Cassper’s reaction has since fueled broader conversations online about safety, crime, and the emotional toll such incidents continue to have on public figures and ordinary citizens alike, with many users sharing similar concerns and calling for urgent action to address violent crime in the country.

Tyla Sweeps Big at the 2026 AMAs in Career-Defining Moment

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Tyla

South African music star Tyla has continued her global rise after winning two major honours at the 2026 American Music Awards held in Las Vegas.

The singer secured the Best Afrobeats Artist award for the second consecutive year, beating strong competition from some of Africa’s biggest names, including Burna Boy, Wizkid, Rema and Moliy in the fan-voted category.

Tyla

She also made history by becoming the first international artist to win Social Song of the Year for her viral hit Chanel, further cementing her growing influence on the global music scene.

The 52nd edition of the awards took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and was hosted by legendary rapper and actress Queen Latifah, who returned to the AMAs stage more than three decades after first co-hosting the show in 1995.

Although Tyla did not attend the ceremony in person, her presence was strongly felt throughout the night as her name continued to trend across social media platforms and global music conversations.

Tyla

Her hit single Chanel, which focuses on confidence and self-worth, has already surpassed hundreds of millions of streams on Spotify and reached the Top 10 on the global chart, reflecting her growing international appeal and crossover success.

The achievement also marks another milestone in her career, making her the first African artist to earn multiple Top 10 entries on the global Spotify charts.

The AMAs are determined through a combination of public voting, streaming data, sales performance and social engagement, making Tyla’s back-to-back wins a strong indicator of her expanding global fanbase, often referred to as the “Tygers.”

Tyla

Now a four-time AMA winner, Tyla has also become the most nominated African artist in the history of the awards, further solidifying her position as one of the continent’s most successful global exports in recent years.

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