South Africa: Presidency Condemns Rising Political Killings - South African News Briefs - November 5, 2026

South Africa's Presidency has denounced the surge in political killings, vowing that those responsible will face justice from law enforcement. This comes as recent reports from Natjoints indicate 20 murders of political figures, party members, and supporters, along with seven arrests.

Director-General Phindile Baleni of the Presidency emphasized that the public must express their political opinions through peaceful democratic means instead of resorting to violence. She urged South Africans on this matter.

Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau addressed the economic repercussions of the United States' decision to exclude South Africa from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) starting next year. Tau stated that the government is actively preparing to handle the economic fallout while concurrently engaging with Washington and directly assisting affected companies in adjusting to the loss of preferential trade benefits.

Meanwhile, South African singer Makhadzi made headlines after returning home from Botswana following a dispute with a local event promoter. Makhadzi had been in the country for a performance but reportedly received no payment and lacked a signed agreement with the organizer. Diplomatic efforts by both South African and Botswana governments, coupled with legal action, facilitated her safe return home in time to participate in South Africa's elections.