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

Making headlines: ANC to reject Stan Mathabatha’s decision to step aside; Tau targets automotive cooperation with Algeria at Intra-African Trade Fair; And, Defence Dept postpones naval exercise with Russia, China amid clash with G20 activities

ANC to reject Stan Mathabatha’s decision to step aside

The African National Congress, guided by its quest for renewal, unity and accountability, has decided to reject its Limpopo provincial chairperson Stan Mathabatha's decision to step aside from his role.

Mathabatha voluntary stepped aside as the ANC Limpopo chairperson, and in a letter addressed to the ANC’s National Executive Committee he cited misconduct in the party, and the erosion of ANC values and processes relating to conferences in the Vhembe and Waterberg regions.

Following receipt of Mathabatha’s letter, ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula convened a meeting with Mathabatha to discuss the issues he raised, ahead of a meeting at Luthuli House attended by the party’s NEC members deployed to Limpopo.

In a statement today, the ANC said the meeting with the NEC members resolved to reject Mathabatha’s intention to step aside and refer the matter back to the province to address the issues he raised.

The party said the outcome of that resolution will be shared with national officials at another meeting.

Tau targets automotive cooperation with Algeria at Intra-African Trade Fair

Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau will home in on automotive cooperation during his participation at the fourth Intra-African Trade Fair, in Algeria, noting that the sector is a priority.

The week-long trade fair programme for Tau will include the official launch of the South African Pavilion stand scheduled to take place today, and a meeting with the South African automotive sector which includes original-equipment and component manufacturers.

He emphasised the importance of mutually beneficial trade opportunities and possible component manufacturing partnerships with Algerian companies.

Tau leads a delegation of 30 South African businesses who are showcasing their products and services at the fair and the Minister will also participate in the Ministerial Panel on the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Automotive Forum.

He will conclude his visit by engaging his Algerian counterparts on bilateral trade and investment matters. 

And, Defence Dept postpones naval exercise with Russia, China amid clash with G20 activities

The Department of Defence said today its joint naval exercise with Russia and China will be postponed this year, owing to the upcoming G20 activities planned under South Africa’s Presidency for November. 

The department explained that the military exercises take place between BRICS countries every two years and that this year’s drill, hosted by China, takes place during the G20 Leader’s Summit in November.

The department said it was liaising with its Chinese counterparts for a postponement of the military exercise.

That’s a roundup of news making headlines today

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