Table of contents for 2026-02-26 in Cape Argus

Every now and then, a television show comes along that shocks you to the core and keeps you spiraling long after the credits have rolled. Tell Me Lies, a drama series created by Meaghan Oppenheimer and based on Carola Lovering’s 2018 novel of the same name, aired its very last episode last week on Disney+. If the show’s intoxicating take on relationships wasn’t outrageous enough, it stayed true to its shocking nature when Oppenheimer dropped a bomb online on the eve of the season three finale, announcing that this would be the end. It forced streamers to pay close attention to the Easter eggs which were dropped back in season one in 2022, when we first met the group at the fictional Baird College. Since its premiere, Tell Me Lies…

In the year marking what would have been Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s 95th birthday, the prestigious World’s Children’s Prize, often referred to as the “Children’s Nobel Prize”, has been formally handed over to the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation in honour of his lifelong fight for justice and children’s rights. The international award recognises people who have made extraordinary contributions to advancing the dignity, protection, and empowerment of children worldwide. Tutu was selected for the honour in recognition of his moral leadership and unwavering advocacy for the most vulnerable. Although he died in 2021 before he could receive the prize in person, the award, delivered to the foundation yesterday, will serve as a lasting symbol of his impact. Dr Iqbal Survé, who is also a former recipient of the World’s…

A 52-year-old man was arrested at Cape Town International Airport on Tuesday as he was about to board a flight to Singapore with his family, in connection with an alleged rhino horn trafficking case. The arrest was confirmed yesterday by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks). According to the Hawks, the suspect’s movements were flagged, leading to the execution of a warrant of arrest on Tuesday. He was expected to appear briefly in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court yesterday. The warrant was issued by the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court, with the DPCI Western Cape assisting in carrying out the arrest. The suspect has been linked to a Kempton Park case involving the possession of rhino horns and predator bones allegedly originating from Hartbeesfontein in North West. Authorities said the matter…

​A BANDIT’s attempt to dodge justice came to a halt at the Philippi Magistrate’s Court after he jumped over the dock only to be caught outside the courthouse moments later.​ The suspect appeared in court on Tuesday for a case of contravention of a protection order, which was registered at Samora Machel police station.​ SAPS spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said the incident occurred at 11am.​ “According to reports, a prisoner leaving the court jumped over the court dock and was chased by the court security. They caught him outside the court premises and brought him back to court, re-arresting him for escape,” Van Wyk said. “The suspect ran after he was told about the remand date of his case and will remain in custody in Pollsmoor Prison until such…

The National Treasury has announced that R1.07 trillion is expected to be spent over the next three years, actualising the country’s big infrastructure goals. Delivering his 2026 State of the Nation Address (Sona), President Cyril Ramaphosa had characterised the allocation – the largest in the country’s history – as more than just brick and mortar. Calling it a “transformative” investment aimed at reversing years of declining fixed investment and stagnant growth. “Through the Infrastructure Fund and new regulations for public-private partnerships, we are using innovative funding models, reducing risk and attracting investors to fast-track projects in energy, water, transport and digital infrastructure,” he said. Director-General of the National Treasury, Dr Duncan Pieterse, said that the government is increasing funding for strategic capital projects and is reforming institutional arrangements to accelerate…

Concerns are emerging over the reliability of Cape Town’s Southern Line, with commuters reporting growing delays and cancellations despite broader efforts to restore passenger rail services across the metro. The complaints surface as political leaders continue to welcome progress on other parts of the network, including the recent reopening of the Kapteinsklip corridor in Mitchells Plain, describing rail as central to reducing congestion and lowering transport costs. Regular Southern Line passengers say that while new trains initially improved services, reliability has become inconsistent in recent months, with extended gaps between trains and limited advance communication when disruptions occur. Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) Western Cape spokesperson Zinobulali Mihi said the agency was aware of concerns regarding the Southern Line. “Prasa Western Cape acknowledges the challenges currently affecting the…

South African cricket has long been entranced with players from the Caribbean islands. Their Calypso flair bringing fresh excitement to the local grounds. The journey began with the likes of Sylvester Clarke, Colin Croft, Collis King, Alvin Kallicharran, Franklyn Stephenson and Eldine Baptiste in a previous rebel era, before West Indies legends Desmond Haynes and Malcolm Marshall captivated local audiences with their unique talents during the 1990s. Barbados duo Haynes and Marshall, in particular, left an indelible footprint on South African cricket beyond just their feats out on the field. Haynes was hugely influential in the mentoring of future Proteas stars Herschelle Gibbs and Jacques Kallis during their embryonic stages of their careers at Newlands, while Marshall guided the likes of Shaun Pollock and Lance Klusener at Kingsmead. Just over…

Brandon Petersen might finally be proving his worth to Kaizer Chiefs, but he will know that to whom much is given, much is expected. A high-stakes Soweto derby takes centre stage this week as Chiefs and Orlando Pirates face off at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3.30pm kick-off) for three invaluable points in the Betway Premiership title race – and the country’s bragging rights. Chiefs will look to captain Brandon Petersen for leadership and composure as the 31-year-old has arguably been their best player since the start of the season. Petersen has kept 11 clean sheets in 17 league games so far, but his influence extends beyond that. He guides his teammates through the demands of both the matches, and the occasions. And the derby should not be different. As…

It's become almost customary to switch on the television and tune into T20 cricket being played somewhere in the world. Be it the IPL, Betway SA20, Big Bash, CPL, PSL, T20 Blast, ILT20, MLC, GLT20, The Hundred, BPL or Nepal T20 League, there will be someone bowling slower balls and cutters trying to deceive a batter aiming to smash the ball out of the ground. It would be fair to suggest that the avalanche of T20 cricket has made it addictive. Fans want it as much as they crave sugar. So, when the ICC decided to schedule three matches a day during the group stages of the on-going T20 World Cup, it was manna from heaven. Cricket on telly virtually 12 hours a day. I had my own selfish reasons…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana yesterday revealed that discussions regarding a new Livelihood Grant to replace the widely-utilised Social Relief of Distress Grant are currently underway. During a closed media briefing prior to his 2026 Budget Speech in Parliament, Godongwana said the modalities and format of what President Cyril Ramaphosa referred to as a Livelihood Grant, were still to be discussed. “The final details will be outlined in the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement after we have a better understanding of how the Livelihood Grant will work,” he said. The Social Relief of Distress Grant, introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, has been a lifeline for millions of South Africans facing food insecurity. Ramaphosa pointed out in his State of the Nation Address earlier this year, that this grant…

A man who murdered his intimate partner has been sentenced to an effective 15 years’ imprisonment, nearly four years after the killing. Sivuyile Tshabile was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for murder and three years’ imprisonment for assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm. The sentences will run concurrently, meaning he will serve 15 years behind bars. Nosiphiwo James was murdered in May 2022. According to advocacy group Action Society, she sustained fatal injuries after being assaulted with a screwdriver. Action Society said Tshabile fled the province after the attack and was later traced and arrested. Although Tshabile was found guilty in May last year, sentencing was postponed several times. “Action Society was hoping for a heavier sentence, today still marks a long-overdue moment of accountability and a measure…

AN ALLEGED gang hit flopped inside a busy Athlone bakery on Tuesday afternoon, leaving patrons ducking and diving for cover. According to a witness, the victim – who was shot three times, but survived the attack – was inside the shop when three men followed him into the bakery and opened fire. The resident, who asked not to be named, said he was in the shop with his two young daughters when the attack took place. The man, who is observing Ramadaan, said: “I was on my way home with my daughters and stopped to buy bread for the house to break our fast. “We were standing in the queue with the rest of the customers. We didn’t even notice the victim come in. “But then three other guys just…

While the cost of deploying the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to support the SAPS in tackling gang violence and illegal mining in the Western Cape, Gauteng and Eastern Cape is unknown, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana shared how their deployment will be afforded. During the State of the Nation Address (Sona), President Cyril Ramaphosa said he had directed the Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia and the SANDF to develop a technical plan on where the security forces should be deployed within the forthcoming days. Ramaphosa said that, given the country’s history, where the apartheid state sent the army into townships to violently suppress opposition, “it is important that we do not deploy the SANDF inside the country to deal with domestic threats without good reason”. “This recent deployment has…

When Livingstone High School marks its 100th anniversary today, it will not simply be celebrating a milestone. For many Cape Town families, it will feel like coming home. Founded in 1926 at a time when access to secondary education was restricted for many black and coloured pupils, the Claremont institution was established through community determination. Over the decades, generations of parents and grandparents have returned to its gates to watch their children follow in their footsteps. That generational pride will be central to the centenary celebrations. A commemorative assembly will bring together learners and educators to reflect on the school’s journey, while cultural performances will showcase the talent of a new generation shaped by a century of tradition. A highlight will be the Centennial Celebration Walk from the school to…

A decade on from his salty McLaren-Honda reunion, Fernando Alonso appears to be suffering a cruel case of déjà vu. Only this time he’s dressed in Aston Martin green. The Spaniard’s renewed partnership with Honda was supposed to signal a bold new era at Aston Martin F1 Team, a works-engine future built around championship ambition. Instead, early signs suggest the relationship has not sweetened with age. If anything, it has gone more sour. For 2026, Aston Martin became Honda’s exclusive works partner under Formula 1’s sweeping new hybrid regulations. The deal is a long-term works agreement understood to run through the next regulation cycle and was designed to give Aston Martin factory-level integration, full technical alignment and a pathway to fight the established teams. Owner Lawrence Stroll has invested heavily…

Lions wing Kelly Mpeku is fast becoming a fan favourite at Ellis Park in the United Rugby Championship after a few stellar performances this season, which have not only showcased his blinding speed but also his commitment to fight for lost causes. Following another standout performance in the Lions’ recent victory over the Sharks, Mpeku has cemented his place on the right wing and is slowly becoming a complete player. The 22-year-old speedster has all the raw qualities to become a top-tier professional, but it is his heart and desire on the field that have been most evident — particularly during scrumhalf Morne van den Berg’s try over the weekend. After spotting space, the No 9 chipped a ball over the top for Mpeku to chase. The wing spectacularly fielded…

Delivering the 2026 State of the Province Address (Sopa) in George last night, Premier Alan Winde placed land reform, violent crime, water security, municipal collapse, and job creation at the centre of the Western Cape’s agenda. The address, delivered at the opening of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament in the Garden Route town, comes at a critical moment as municipalities face water shortages, residents struggle with rising crime and violence, and communities continue to demand access to land, housing, and basic services. George itself has faced recent infrastructure strain and disaster recovery challenges, placing additional focus on governance and development in the region. Opening his address with a call for unity, Winde described the province as resilient but under pressure. “A State of the Province is a moment in time,”…

Early Childhood Development (ECD) will be receiving a healthy financial injection from the National Treasury, resulting in ECD services reaching an additional 300 000 children. The announcement was made during Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s Budget Speech yesterday, where he said that, in terms of consolidated expenditure, spending on education remains the largest component at 23.7% over the medium term. “Basic education receives R22.7bn for carry-through costs announced in May last year. Early childhood development receives the majority of these funds. “R9.9bn supports employee compensation and other pressures in education. Early childhood development grant receives an additional R12.8bn over the next three years, expanding service to an additional 300 000 children,” Godongwana said. “This will also maintain the increased per-child, per-day subsidy of R24 introduced in 2025/26. The increased allocations align…

The National Consumer Commissioner has vowed to probe disturbing findings from a University of the Free State study. According to the study, certain sanitary pads and panty liners may contain harmful endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as parabens, phthalates, and bisphenols. The spokesperson for the National Consumer Commission, Phetho Ntaba, confirmed it is investigating nine sanitary pad suppliers. “These EDCs are linked to health complications such as hormonal imbalance, infertility, endometriosis, and cancer. Millions of South African women and girls use these products monthly,” Ntaba said. Based on this information, the commission has initiated an investigation against the following suppliers whose products were apparently tested in the study: Kimberly-Clark of SA (Kotex) Proctor and Gamble (Always) Anna Organics The Lion Match Company (Comfitex) Here We Flo (Flo) Johnson & Johnson (Stay…

Think of another problem that has reared its ugly head. In South Africa today we have been very careful to ensure that we have a minimum wage, and we’ve been very careful to ensure that people are granted a certain minimum amount of time that they can work on each particular day. All of this is completely reversed because our railway system in South Africa has collapsed. Employees are telling me they sometimes spend up to half their salary on travel. This completely negates the minimum wage. It would have been far quicker, cheaper and far more effective if the government spent some time in fixing all the railways and enabling the staff to get to work safely, quickly and cheaply. When I go through the labour regulatory environment, I…

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has cautioned India against chasing a big gain in net run-rate ahead of their crunch ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 meeting against Zimbabwe today, saying that winning must remain the priority in their aim to enter the semi-finals. Defending champions India will meet Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with the knowledge that back-to-back wins — starting with the Chevrons — will keep their slender semi-final hopes alive, after a heavy 76-run loss to South Africa left them in danger of an early exit from the competition. Their final match of the Super 8 is against the West Indies on Sunday. “I really hope that approach of playing for net run-rate does not come into play at the start of the game,”…

While Kaizer Chiefs players are expected to be self-motivated heading into the Soweto derby on Saturday (3.30pm), their medical and technical teams still have plenty of work to do in fine-tuning their readiness for the clash. Chiefs will host arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium. They are currently fourth in the Betway Premiership standings with 30 points, eight behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played one game more. Still in the title race, Amakhosi could have gone into the derby with a smaller gap, especially considering they are also competing with Pirates, who are level on points with Sundowns, for the coveted title this season. But it was not to be. They suffered a 2-1 league defeat to Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday night, marking their third loss in the…