Monday, August 31, 2009
From Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I'm Amy Witherden.
Making headlines:
The National Intelligence Agency (NIA) would not comment yesterday on reports that Mo Shaik may become its new director-general. The contract of the current head, Manala Manzini, expires today, and two weekend newspapers reported that Shaik, an apartheid-era intelligence operative for the African National Congress and close ally of President Jacob Zuma, would fill the position. However, NIA spokesperson Lorna Daniels refused to comment on the validity of the claims, saying that the Presidency will only make an announcement on the incoming director-general once processes have been completed. Opposition party the Democratic Alliance states that it will oppose the reported appointment of Shaik, as the move would "fan political flames" in the NIA. Meanwhile, Shaik denies having received an invitation to join the NIA.

South African President Jacob Zuma has urged Zimbabwe's rival parties to resolve their differences in order to gain vital foreign aid for its battered economy, but also called on Western powers to repeal sanctions on the country.
While some countries have offered Zimbabwe humanitarian assistance, conditions have been set for the provision of large-scale economic aid. Zuma said that the inclusive government has the responsibility to fully implement the global political agreement and create confidence in the democratic process.
He added that an effective economic recovery in Zimbabwe is also dependent on the removal of sanctions and other measures that hold up economic development.

Addressing the annual conference of the Board of Healthcare Funders, Deputy Health Minister Molefi Sefularo said that the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) plan is one of the department's main priorities between 2009 and 2014. The resolutions of the ruling party direct government to make health a priority, he said. Among other concerns is: the provision of strategic leadership, reviewing the drug policy, strengthening research and development, improving the quality of health services, human resources and planning.
The Board of Healthcare Funders has expressed its support for the NHI, which is based on the principle of "universal coverage" for all South Africans.
Also making headlines:
Despite threats from the taxi industry, Johannesburg's Rea Vaya sees a busy start with its Sunday launch.
Opposition parties react negatively to the Judicial Service Commission's decision not to continue with an investigation into Western Cape Judge President John Hlophe.
And, Gabon awaits the results of its presidential election, but the son of longstanding President Omar Bongo, is confident of victory.
That's a roundup of news making headlines today.