Top stories this week: A deep dive into Mark Lifman’s life, Donald Trump wins US election, and more updates
NEWS
Date rape drugs, young boys, sex: ‘He had a cruel and sadistic side,’ says man who worked for Mark Lifman
– Mark Lifman, a prominent Cape Town figure, was killed in November 2024. Following his death, a former employee, who was homeless at the time of his employment, came forward describing Lifman’s cruel and manipulative behaviour.
– The former employee described being recruited to monitor a property Lifman owned, noting constant foot traffic of individuals exchanging money and packages.
– The former employee recounts being taken to questionable gatherings, given drugs, and subjected to uncomfortable situations. He described witnessing Lifman’s abusive behaviour, specifically towards young boys, and being pressured to recruit boys from disadvantaged backgrounds.
– After multiple drug-related incidents, the employee was hospitalised under suspicious circumstances where he claimed a doctor appeared complicit in efforts to silence him. He managed to escape on multiple occasions, ultimately fleeing Cape Town for a year.
– The employee said Lifman’s influence stretched deep into Cape Town’s nightlife, allegedly controlling drug supplies and exploiting vulnerable individuals. The experience left the former employee in fear for his life, ultimately leading him to leave Lifman’s circle permanently.
Read more.
Rich British woman shares half of her assets with unemployed South African husband in divorce settlement
– A British woman was ordered by the High Court in Johannesburg to split half of the assets with her unemployed South African husband, including those purchased with her money, after filing for divorce and requesting a forfeiture of benefits against him.
– The couple met in Namibia in 2014, married in South Africa in 2016 under community of property.
– The woman sold properties in Namibia, transferring funds into her husband's account, buying a Johannesburg home, and purchasing an Audi for him.
– The husband became unemployed, and the wife funded their lifestyle and home renovations. The wife claimed emotional and financial strain due to the husband's alleged abuse and lack of contribution to the joint estate, while he contended she was controlling.
– Acting Judge JL Bhengu dismissed both forfeiture requests, ordering an equal division of the estate. The husband was instructed to repay R1 million from the investment account funds, and both parties were responsible for their own legal costs.
Read more.
What does Donald Trump’s US election win mean for South Africa?
– Donald Trump won with 51% of the vote. Trump defeated Kamala Harris, winning the U.S. presidential election.
– President Ramaphosa hopes to strengthen U.S.-South Africa cooperation, especially with upcoming G20 presidencies.
– Pro-business policies and AGOA continuation may increase US investment and trade with South Africa.
– Higher US tariffs could hurt South African exports and impact its economy.
– Volatile US trade actions could weaken the rand, raising import costs and inflation in South Africa.
Read more.
Equatorial Guinea politician's multiple sexual romps with various women go viral on social media
– Baltasar Ebang Engonga, director of Equatorial Guinea’s ANIF, is seen in leaked sex tapes involving the wives of other officials, recorded in his ministry office.
– Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue announced suspensions for any civil servants caught having sexual relations in ministry offices, citing ethics violations.
– Authorities have ordered telecom companies to restrict the distribution of these videos on social media to prevent further family disruptions.
– Engonga, who is already in Black Beach prison over embezzlement charges, may face additional prosecution if tests confirm a sexually transmitted infection.
– Measures to curb video downloads have led to slow internet speeds, with rumours of additional tapes involving other officials potentially emerging soon.
Read more.
MKP secretary-general calls it quits, assumes top position in Gauteng Health Department
– Dr. Sifiso Maseko resigned as secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party to take on the role of chief director for infrastructure in the Gauteng Department of Health.
– Maseko had been suspended from the department for corruption related to the acquisition of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the National State of Disaster, following an SIU investigation.
– In his resignation letter, Maseko expressed appreciation for the MKP leadership and confirmed his continued commitment as a party member, despite stepping down from his official role.
– Maseko, along with other officials, was recommended for disciplinary and criminal action after the SIU report, which uncovered irregularities in the PPE procurement process.
– The MKP expressed gratitude for Maseko's service as secretary-general and his dedication to the party.
Read more.
SPORT
Springboks change up Test-week routine ahead of Sunday kickoff against Scotland
– Coach Rassie Erasmus gave the Springboks Monday off to align with an unusual Sunday match schedule (kickoff at 6:10 pm), giving them a full rest before intense preparation starts on Tuesday.
– The Boks spent a week training in Jersey, focusing on team alignment and strategy. They had two daily training sessions to integrate players returning from various clubs.
– Prop Wilco Louw noted the camp helped players understand their roles, with Erasmus likely planning to give match time to most players over the three-week tour.
– Louw highlighted Scotland’s strength, recalling their tough matchup in last year’s Rugby World Cup pool game, and acknowledged a challenging game ahead at Murrayfield.
– With tighthead prop Frans Malherbe injured, Louw (returning to the squad after 14 caps) is expected to play in at least one of the UK Tests, aiming to contribute alongside experienced teammates.
Read more.
ENTERTAINMENT
Rachel Kolisi joins Prince William at the Earthshot Prize Awards in Cape Town
– Rachel Kolisi attended the Earthshot Awards in Cape Town, hosted by Prince William, alongside global leaders and innovators.
– She wore a navy top and wide-leg trousers styled by Ginara Bennet, paired with a grey Maira Champ bag and Steve Madden shoes, showcasing her elegant look.
– Recently, Rachel shared that she is on a healing journey post-divorce and spent a "weekend for the soul" with her children and Siya’s sibling.
– Social media followers praised her resilience, expressing support and admiration for her strength.
– Founded by Prince William in 2020, Earthshot supports environmental solutions; this year's awards were co-hosted by Bonang Matheba and Billy Porter.
Read more.
LIFESTYLE
Why cycling should be part of your fitness routine in South Africa
– Cycling has become a popular physical activity in South Africa, offering an accessible way to manage stress, improve mental health, and enjoy the outdoors.
– Cycling regularly can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress while lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, improving mental well-being, and supporting cognitive function.
– Cycling aids in maintaining a healthy weight without putting stress on joints, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
– Cycling consistently has been linked to longer lifespans, a reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and certain cancers, and decreased mortality risk.
– Cycling is versatile, fitting into different fitness routines, whether through leisurely rides or more intense workouts, with a recommendation of 150 minutes per week for optimal health benefits.
Read more.
BUSINESS
Edward Kieswetter earns 36 times more than the average South African
– For 2024, SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter’s total remuneration was R11.71 million, broken down as R7.79 million in base salary, R3.63 million in performance bonuses, R1.56 million in allowances, and R1.3 million in pension contributions.
– SARS achieved a record collection of R2.155 trillion by March 2024.
– Kieswetter’s monthly base salary of R649,166 is over 36 times higher than the average South African annual salary of R321,492.
– Kieswetter’s earnings are nearly three times those of President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose 2024 salary was R4.2 million (most of which Ramaphosa donates).
– President Ramaphosa extended Kieswetter’s term by two years to allow SARS to continue its strategic transformation, initially launched in 2019.
Read more.
IOL