Pay-TV Pricing Pressure: MultiChoice’s new DStv tier overhaul is drawing fresh backlash from sports fans, with critics saying premium rugby, F1 and cricket are still effectively locked behind top packages while the Competition Commission flags concerns that exclusivity can entrench dominance. City Tech Under Strain: Johannesburg’s Metropolitan Tech Company is struggling to deliver on the city’s Wi‑Fi and smart-city ambitions, citing budget limits, skills gaps and debt, with key network roles left vacant. Joburg Governance Crisis: A sharp critique says Johannesburg’s management has been hollowed out by instability, acting appointments and political interference—hurting service delivery and expertise in key municipal entities. Illegal Mining Crackdown: A new account from Ekurhuleni highlights debt bondage and forced labour linked to illegal mines, renewing calls for tougher enforcement. Crime and Accountability: Questions continue around the murder of music-rights activist Owen Ndlovu, while a separate case update shows how court proceedings and political narratives are colliding. Public Finance Focus: National Treasury says it’s on track to deliver fiscal targets ahead of the MTBPS, aiming to stabilise and then reduce debt while running primary surpluses. BRICS Trade Reality Check: Analysis argues South Africa’s BRICS exports remain heavily concentrated in raw minerals, limiting industrialisation and value-add. Women’s Safety Protests: Runners in Kempton Park protested femicide fears, demanding protection and accountability as bodies are found in the district. Business & Tech: AWS AI capabilities are being shaped by African banks, with South Africa’s role in early cloud development highlighted.