MK members ‘sold’ into fighting, and PEP planning to launch banking services

Today, 20 November, the Rand is trading at R17.21 to the Dollar, weakening slightly from R17.16 from the close of business on Wednesday. 

In the Commission investigating the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA’s) Andrew Chauke, and his fitness to hold office, NPA head Shamila Batohi will continue her testimony today.

Batohi laid a complaint against Chauke, which resulted in his suspension. 

The DA in Gauteng plans to picket outside the office of Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi today, demanding that criminal charges be laid against those implicated in the looting of R2 billion from Tembisa Hospital. 

The South African Reserve Bank is set to make an announcement regarding its decision on interest rates today. Some experts are predicting a 25-basis-point cut. 

In the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into police corruption, the cross-examination of controversial businessman Brown Magotsi will continue. 

On Wednesday, he was accused of being a “professional liar” after hearing his claims that he was a SAPS Crime Intelligence agent and that KZN police commissioner Nhanhla Mkhwanazi and Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini were recruited by the CIA.

In parliament, the Ad Hoc Committee for Police Corruption will hear testimony from the head of procurement at the SAPS, Lt-Gen Puleng Dimpane. 

Here are five big things happening in South Africa Today:

Zuma Relative Says South Africans ‘Sold’ Into Fighting on Ukraine Frontline – News24

A relative of former President Zuma says a group of South African men were duped into going to Russia for “bodyguard training” by the MK Party, only to be sent to fight on the Ukraine frontline.

PEP to launch its own bank – BusinessTech

Pepkor plans to offer banking services to rival those offered by Capitec.

Brown Mogotsi describes alleged attempted hit on his life – EWN

During his testimony before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, Brown Mogotsi shared the details of an alleged attempt on his life, something witnesses have cast doubt on.

Former public enterprises minister steps aside from ANC roles – Newsday

Malusi Gigaba has announced that he has stepped aside from his political organisational duties after appearing in court on charges linked to alleged corruption.

Government pension fund writes off R3.6 billion in investments – Daily Investor

The write-offs were revealed in the fund’s annual report for the 2024/25 financial year, presented to Parliament on Tuesday.