For Creamer Media in Johannesburg, I’m Thabi Madiba.

Making headlines: SIU aims to complete investigation into Mkhize by end of June; Medical Association warns that more restrictions are needed to slow down Covid-19 third wave; And, Stage 2 load-shedding to continue until Friday evening

SIU aims to complete investigation into Mkhize by end of June

The Special Investigating Unit wants to conclude its investigation into Health Minister Zweli Mkhize and Digital Vibes by June, the corruption-busting agency's head Andy Mothibi told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

He confirmed that Mkhize's role in the alleged corrupt tender is being investigated.

Last week, Daily Maverick revealed that the department paid more than R150-million to Digital Vibes, which also included payments for services not related to Covid-19, and that Mkhize, contrary to his public denial, had benefitted personally from the contract.

Digital Vibes is apparently controlled by Mkhize’s former spokesperson Tahera Mather and former personal assistant Naadhira Mitha.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has said publicly that he would only act on the matter after the SIU finalised its investigation.

Medical Association warns that more restrictions are needed to slow down Covid-19 third wave

The South African Medical Association has called for stricter lockdown regulations, saying a tighter curfew is needed, especially over weekends.

President Cyril Ramaphosa moved the country to adjusted Level 2 lockdown restrictions, with an earlier curfew, starting at 23:00, and gatherings limited to 100 people indoors and 250 outdoors.

SAMA chairperson Dr Angelique Coetzee said although this is a move in the right direction, it's not enough, and stricter measures need to be in place, especially for indoor gatherings with poor ventilation.

The adjusted Level 2 regulations have been criticised by opposition parties, who have said the country needs Covid-19 vaccines instead of further regulations.

And, Stage 2 load-shedding to continue until Friday evening

Eskom has announced that Stage 2 load-shedding will continue to be implemented until Friday evening.

This is owing to further breakdowns of generating units at the Majuba and Arnot power stations and delays with returning units to service at the Arnot and Tutuka power stations.

Breakdowns currently total 13 601 MW of capacity, while 1 330 MW is unavailable owing to maintenance.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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