VMC MEDIA NEWS

EFF Challenges Orania's Status, Citing Inequality and Segregation Concerns By Jabulani Chauke  Image credits: via x Northen Cape - EFF and Black nationalist politicians in South Africa have renewed their calls for the abolishment of Orania, a small, privately run Afrikaner enclave located in the remote desert region of the Northern Cape. The small town of Orania has deemed to represent white supremacy and segregation. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Northern Cape submitted a memorandum demanding the dissolution of Orania, which they describe as a "state within a state" due to its exclusive white Afrikaner population and autonomous governance structure. The EFF has warned that it may take legal action if the government does not respond to its demands. Image credits: via x Orania, established in the early 1990s, was created as a cultural community aimed at preserving Afrikaner heritage and language. However, it has drawn criticism from political groups who argue ...

BREAKING NEWS: Hawks Rescue Kidnapped American Pastor in Gqeberha By Jabulani Chauke Image credits: via twitter In a dramatic and successful operation, the Hawks have rescued American pastor Josh Sullivan, who was kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in Motherwell, Gqeberha, in Eastern Cape, on April 10, 2025. According to reports Pastor Sullivan, a visiting missionary and preacher from the United States, was taken in front of his congregation in a shocking incident that sent shockwaves through the local and international faith community. The armed men stormed the church premises and abducted the pastor during a prayer session, leading to a multi-agency investigation. After nearly a week of intense investigations and intelligence gathering, the Hawks traced the location of the suspects and executed a well-coordinated rescue operation. Sullivan was found alive and reportedly in stable condition. Authorities have confirmed that several suspects have been arrested and are curr...

BREAKING NEWS: South Africa Loses Another Legendary Actor By Jabulani Chauke Image credits: via twitter GAUTENG - South Africa mourns the loss of veteran actor Don Mlangeni Nawa , who has passed away at the age of 65. His family confirmed his death on Wednesday , on 16 April, though the cause has not been disclosed. Mlangeni was widely known various roles  in the world of acting which he began on the theatre stage , where his passion for storytelling first took root. His on-screen career launched in 1993 with a memorable role in the Zulu drama Hlala Kwabafileyo , followed by a performance in the iconic Zulu film Ubambo Lwami , where he played David . By 1995 , he was featured in Cycle Simenon , but it was in 1998 that his stardom truly rose with the beloved role of Zebedee Matabane on the hit soap opera Isidingo . For 16 years, he brought the character to life with depth and charisma, earning him the Golden Horn Award for Best Actor in a TV Soap in 2006 , with two further no...

Zulu Parade in New Orleans Faces Renewed Criticism Amid Cultural Sensitivity Concerns from Original Zulu People In South Africa By Jabulani Chauke Image credits: @Cosmic_El x account S outh Africa  — The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club’s iconic Mardi Gras parade, a long-standing fixture in New Orleans since its founding in 1909, has come under renewed scrutiny for its portrayal of African culture—specifically from members of the Zulu people in South Africa who have voiced objections on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The parade is known for its vibrant costumes, including grass skirts, feathered headdresses, and black makeup traditionally worn by participants to pay homage to Zulu warriors. But critics, including South Africans of Zulu heritage, argue that the parade’s portrayal is culturally insensitive, offensive, and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. “What’s meant as celebration feels more like mockery,” one user posted on X, reflecting a growing sentiment among som...

Chaos Erupts at Orlando Stadium as Violence Mars CAF Champions League Clash By Jabulani Chauke Image credits; Everything football Facebook page   Orlando, South Africa – A CAF Champions League match between Orlando Pirates and Algerian side MC Alger descended into chaos at Orlando Stadium, marking the second incident involving violence between a North African team and a South African side in recent weeks. Tensions reached boiling point following the final whistle, with violent altercations breaking out on the field. Shockingly, some Pirates fans stormed the pitch and clashed with MC Alger players a rare and alarming scene in the CAF Champions League. This follows closely after a similar incident involving Espérance Sportive de Tunis and Mamelodi Sundowns, where fans were met with heavy police suppression despite the home side’s win. Image credits; Everything football Facebook page   Critics are now demanding swift action from CAF. “This is not how we do it, Pirates. I’ve never...

US-China Trade War Escalates with Major Tariff and Currency Measures Image credits; x pop base account A pril 10, 2025 — Tensions between the United States and China have reached new heights today as both countries take drastic economic measures that are expected to have far-reaching consequences. In an unexpected move, President Donald Trump has announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for all countries, lowering rates to a uniform 10%, effective immediately. However, China is the notable exception. Tariffs on Chinese imports will instead surge to a staggering 125%, a dramatic escalation that comes into effect without delay. This move is the latest chapter in the ongoing US-China trade war, which has seen a series of retaliatory measures in recent weeks. In direct response, China has retaliated by imposing an 84% tariff on all U.S. imports, beginning tomorrow. This marks a significant escalation from the earlier 104% tariff that the U.S. had placed on Chinese goods. Image credits; x po...

SANDF Denies Deployment to Monitor Matatiele GBV March Amid Political Scrutiny By Jabulani Chauke  Image credits: x SANDF account  The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has strongly denied reports that it deployed soldiers to monitor a recent community march against gender-based violence (GBV) in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, through a media statement released on their media media accounts. This follows growing public concern and political pressure after members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and ActionSA wrote a formal letter to the Speaker of the National Assembly, seeking clarity in accordance with Section 201, Chapter 2 and 3 of the Constitution regarding the alleged deployment. Image credits: South African National Defence Force Facebook page  In a media statement released on Wednesday, 9 April 2025, the SANDF addressed what it called misleading reports suggesting that its personnel had been sent specifically to oversee the peaceful community gathering....

SACP Urges DA's Exit from Government of National Unity, Emphasizing Single Leadership By Jabulani Chauke  Image credits: SABC Facebook page  Johannesburg - South African Communist Party (SACP) has called on the African National Congress (ANC) to remove the Democratic Alliance (DA) from the Government of National Unity (GNU), asserting that "there can never be two governments in one country."  This appeal follows the DA's decision to vote against the recent budget, a move that has intensified tensions within the coalition. SACP spokesperson Dr. Alex Mashilo emphasized that the DA's opposition to the budget indicates its misalignment with the GNU's objectives. He noted that a parliamentary majority is attainable without the DA's involvement, stating, "There is a 50% plus one majority in parliament excluding the DA, the Mkhonto Wesizwe (MKP), and others."  The SACP has also criticized the budget's provisions, particularly the increase in Value A...

Motaung Stirs Debate by Comparing Riveiro's Exit to Baxter's Kaizer Chiefs Departure By Jabulani Chauke   Image credits: Kaizer Chiefs Facebook page   Bobby Motaung, Kaizer Chiefs' football manager, has stirred controversy with recent comments regarding Orlando Pirates' coach, Jose Riveiro. Following Riveiro's announcement of his departure at the season's end, Motaung drew parallels between Riveiro's exit and that of former Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter. He accused Riveiro of emulating Baxter's move, suggesting that both left after enhancing their profiles, seemingly in pursuit of better financial prospects. Video credits: Everything soccer Facebook page  Stuart Baxter's tenure at Kaizer Chiefs was marked by significant achievements, including two league titles and two cup trophies during his first stint from 2012 to 2015. However, his second tenure in 2021-2022 ended abruptly amid reported disagreements with club management over player selection...

Minister Mchunu Clarifies Miscommunication on Principal's DNA in Cwecwe Case Following Public Backlash By Jabulani Chauke   Image credits: Minister of Police Facebook page   Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, has faced significant public backlash after comments made regarding the ongoing investigation into the Cwecwe case. In his initial statement, Mchunu had referred to the principal of Bergview College as a suspect, which led to widespread speculation and confusion. This was further exacerbated when reports surfaced suggesting, he has confirmed that the principal's DNA had been collected as part of the investigation. In response to the backlash, the Minister of Police issued a clarification, stating that Mchunu had never suggested that the principal’s DNA was taken. According to the statement, the DNA testing was conducted solely in relation to the minor involved in the case. The Minister confirmed that three persons of interest had been identified, though the principal was n...

Ndlozi Demands Clarity from Steenhuisen Over ‘Big Business’ Influence in GNU Dispute. Image credits: Economic Freedom Fighters Facebook page  Johannesburg — Radio personality and former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) spokesperson Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has challenged Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen over recent claims involving the role of "big business" in coalition politics. Speaking out after Steenhuisen’s comments during a media briefing in eThekwini, Ndlozi raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the Government of National Unity (GNU). The DA leader had alleged that major business players had encouraged his party to remain part of the GNU, especially amid tensions surrounding a suggested increase in Value-Added Tax (VAT). The proposal had sparked uncertainty about the DA’s continued participation in the coalition government. Image credits: x (formerly known as Twitter) John Steenhuisen Ndlozi took issue with the vagueness of Steenhuisen...

INAUGURATION OF JMPD CHIEF AS CITY LEADERS AIM TO TACKLE CRIME IN JOHANNESBURG By Ayanda Maluleka and Nolwazi Xaba Image : AyandaMaluleka ; The Excutive Mayor of Johannesburg Dada Morero at the inauguration of Chief of Police at Johannesburg Stadium.  Johannesburg – On April 3, 2025, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) held the inauguration of its newly appointed Chief of Police, Patrick Jaca. The ceremony, which started at 10:00 AM, marked the end of a five-year vacancy for the position. The event took place at Johannesburg Stadium, where JMPD and SAPS officers gathered in support of the new chief.   Jaca’s appointment comes with high expectations, as he is tasked with addressing the pressing challenges facing Johannesburg, including rising crime rates and illegal informal trading, particularly in the city center. Officials hope his leadership will also enhance the Protection Service Unit’s role in law enforcement, ensuring it receives greater recognit...

JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla Talks Duties, SAPS Collaboration, and New Chief's Inauguration. Journalist : Jabulani Chauke  Johannesburg – VMC Planet Radio’s "VMC Talk" hosted an insightful discussion on Wednesday with JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla, who outlined the responsibilities of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and its collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS).   Speaking to hosts Jabulani Chauke and Ayanda Maluleka, Fihla emphasized the role of JMPD in enforcing municipal by-laws, managing traffic, and ensuring public safety. He highlighted how the department works closely with SAPS to combat crime and maintain order in the city.   Fihla also touched on the much-anticipated inauguration of the new Chief of Police, set to take place at Johannesburg Stadium at 10:00 AM. He expressed hope that the appointment would lead to further strengthening of law enforcement efforts.   "We look forward to seeing mo...

Scotts Maphuma Faces Backlash from Fans Over Alleged Nasty Attitude. Journalist  : Jabulani Chauke  Johannesburg, April 2, 2025 – Rising Amapiano star Scotts Maphuma has found himself at the center of a storm as fans accuse him of displaying a "nasty attitude" during recent public encounters. The musician, known for hits like "Biri Marung" and his electrifying performances, has been called out for what some describe as dismissive and rude behavior toward his supporters, sparking a heated debate across social media and beyond. The controversy erupted after several viral videos surfaced showing Maphuma reacting sharply to fans requesting photos or approaching him in public spaces. In one clip, he’s seen brushing off a fan’s attempt to hand him a piece of artwork, prompting outrage from viewers who labeled his actions "ungrateful" and "arrogant." Another incident reportedly involved him snapping at a group asking for selfies at a mall, further fueli...

 Tshenolo PI Locates Suspect Behind Ntsako Mabunda Account Amid Cwecwe Case Controversy. Johannesburg, April 2, 2025 – Private investigation firm Tshenolo PI has made a breakthrough in tracking down the individual believed to be behind the social media account of "Ntsako Mabunda," a name that has ignited fury for posting insensitive comments about the tragic Cwecwe case. The case, involving the death of a 7-year-old girl seven years ago, remains an emotional scar for South Africa, and Mabunda’s remarks have fueled widespread outrage online. Another social media user allegedly posted a picture of a guy stating: "This is Ntsako Mabunda: the guy has three different accounts on Facebook, including one under the name Ripfumelo Sthara RSA. Sources indicate he resides in Pretoria, though he also has ties to Limpopo." On April 1, Tshenolo PI announced a R5,000 reward for anyone who can provide his phone number and address, intensifying efforts to locate him. "There is ...

 Teacher Faces Court Over Alleged Sexual Assault of Learner in Makotopong. Journalist: Jabulani Chauke   A 58-year-old teacher accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old primary school learner from a school in Makotopong, Limpopo, appeared in court today. The case, which has sent shockwaves through the community, has been met with strict media restrictions, with the court ordering that the accused’s name and image not be published to protect the ongoing legal process and the victim’s identity.   According to Limpopo police, the alleged assaults began in November 2024 and continued until March 2025. The suspect, who taught at the school in Ga Mothiba Makotopong outside Polokwane, was arrested following an extensive investigation by the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit. Preliminary findings suggest the 13-year-old female learner was assaulted multiple times over the four-month period. The teacher reportedly fled after the allegations ...

Sundowns Fan Saves Esperance Supporter Amid Stadium Chaos. Multimedia Journalist/Editor: Jabulani Chauke A Mamelodi Sundowns fan emerged as a hero after saving the life of an Esperance supporter during a violent clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Espérance De Tunis fans at Loftus Versfeld Stadium last night. The altercation broke out following Sundowns' victory over the Tunisian side, Espérance, in a Champions League night on the high stake march. As tensions escalated, a hooligans behavior from both sides took over parts of the stadium, creating a dangerous situation for spectators. Amid the chaos, a Tunisian supporter was on the verge of falling from level 3 inside the Stadium when a Sundowns fan stepped in, to prevent a potential tragedy.   Eyewitnesses described the moment as a rare act of sportsmanship in an otherwise heated atmosphere. "It was shocking to see the violence, but this one fan showed true humanity," said a bystander.   The incident has drawn criti...

Gauteng residents join forces with students in Johannesburg. The South African Students’ Congress (SASCO) took part in the national shutdown calling for justice for Cwecwe, along with other organizations in Gauteng. The SASCO GJHB region called upon every student living in Johannesburg to rally behind this movement.    Journalist: Luyanda Mzobe Citizens together at Joubert Park. Photo: Luyanda Mzobe On April 1, while some were looking for a fun side of the day, South Africans across all nine provinces took to the streets for a nationwide shutdown, marching to the Department of Education in each province to express their frustration over an incident in Matatiele, Eastern Cape. The case involves 7-year-old Cwecwe, who was allegedly sexually assaulted on school premises at Bergview College in October 2024.   Citizens with written boards. Photo: Luyanda Mzobe  South Africans are demanding justice and action from law enforcement and the Department of Education. ...

 Johannesburg Residents and Students Unite in Justice March for Cwecwe. Johannesburg residents, alongside students from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), Wits University, and Central Johannesburg College (CJC), took to the streets in a powerful display of unity and demand for justice. The march, which started in Parktown and moved towards Marshalltown, was held in honor of seven-year-old Cwecwe, whose tragic circumstances have sparked national outrage.   The protesters, carrying placards and chanting for justice, emphasized the need for accountability and urgent legal action. The case of Cwecwe has struck a deep chord across South Africa, with communities from different provinces also organizing similar demonstrations. The nationwide movement reflects growing concerns over the safety of children and the justice system's ability to protect the most vulnerable members of society.   Leaders of the march called for transparency in the investigation, urging author...

Irresponsible Social Media Post Lands User in Trouble Amid #JusticeForCwecwe Case. A social media user, identified as ‘Ivan T Twala Stebu,’ is facing serious consequences after making an inappropriate post regarding the ongoing #JusticeForCwecwe case. His post, which involves a highly sensitive issue concerning a minor, has ignited widespread public outrage due to its exploitative and insensitive nature.   The #JusticeForCwecwe case has drawn significant attention, with many people rallying behind the victim and demanding accountability. However, rather than contributing positively to the discourse, Stebu’s social media activity has been widely criticized for being reckless and disrespectful. Many have accused him of seeking personal attention at the expense of a tragic situation, showing little regard for the victim, their family, or the broader community.   In today’s digital age, social media platforms play a powerful role in shaping public opinion and spreading a...