Democratic Alliance (DA)

South Africa's official opposition, warning the exercise undermines non-alignment and risks trade retaliation. - Leading parliamentary opposition to exercise

Chinese destroyers, Russian corvettes, and Iranian warships sailed into South Africa's Simon's Town Naval Base on January 9 for a week-long joint exercise. China leads the operation. Russia and Iran—both heavily sanctioned, both fighting active wars—sent their fleets. India and Brazil, despite the BRICS branding, are nowhere to be found. On January 10, the South African government doubled down, calling the drills 'essential' maritime cooperation despite mounting domestic and international pressure.

Updated Jan 10

South Africa's main opposition party, now part of Government of National Unity but opposing land law. - Opposition party challenging Expropriation Act in court

President Trump cut all US aid to South Africa on February 7, 2025—$440 million annually, most for HIV treatment—over a land law allowing seizure without compensation. He called it discrimination against white farmers. South Africa's President Ramaphosa shot back: "We will not be bullied." Within weeks, 8,000 health workers lost their jobs and 12 HIV clinics shut down.

Updated Jan 7

South Africa’s main opposition party, using the shootings to attack SAPS performance and demand tougher interventions. - Pressuring government for a special task force and data-driven policing response

Just after 1 a.m., a tavern in Bekkersdal turned into a killing floor. A group of gunmen arrived in two vehicles, stormed the venue, and fired into patrons inside and outside—then kept shooting as people ran.

Updated Dec 21, 2025